Description
Crack Chicken Pasta Salad is a mouthwatering dish that perfectly marries the rich flavors of tender shredded chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing over a bed of al dente pasta. Versatile enough to serve as a main course or side dish, it’s ideal for family gatherings, potlucks, or quick weeknight dinners. With its easy preparation and delightful taste, this salad is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Whether enjoyed warm or chilled, Crack Chicken Pasta Salad brings together beloved ingredients in a way that pleases everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb bow tie pasta (or elbow macaroni)
- 2 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 10 slices cooked bacon (crumbled)
- 1 ½ cup cheddar cheese (cubed)
- ¼ cup green onions (chopped)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved)
- ½ cup ranch dressing
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and transfer to a mixing bowl.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, season and cook chicken breasts until golden brown. Let rest before cutting into pieces.
- Combine cooked pasta with chicken, bacon, cheese, green onions, tomatoes, and ranch dressing. Toss to combine and season to taste.
- Garnish with extra green onions before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling/Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 456
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg