Description
Crack Chicken Pasta Salad is a mouthwatering combination of tender shredded chicken, crispy bacon, tangy ranch dressing, and sharp cheddar cheese, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. This creamy, flavorful dish offers the perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Whether you’re preparing for a barbecue or a potluck, this salad can be served cold for a refreshing twist. The rich and savory elements, combined with the cooling effect of the salad, make it a great choice for warm-weather events. It’s easy to prepare and packed with protein, making it both satisfying and delicious.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 lb. bow tie pasta or elbow macaroni
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 10 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, cut into small cubes
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
Instructions
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and transfer to a large bowl.
- Meanwhile, in a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat oil. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook until golden and cooked through, about 8 minutes per side. Let rest for 10 minutes, then cut into 1-inch pieces.
- To the bowl with pasta, add chicken, bacon, cheese, green onion, tomatoes, and ranch. Toss until combined.
- Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes