This Easy Chicken Club Pasta Salad is a tasty mix of pasta, chicken, crispy bacon, and fresh veggies. It’s creamy, crunchy, and packed with flavor, perfect for lunch or a picnic!
Can we just take a moment to appreciate how this salad can be a meal, a side, or even a snack? I love tossing in extra ranch dressing to make it even yummier. Enjoy every bite! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Rotini and bowtie pasta are great choices since they hold the dressing well. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta. I love whole wheat pasta for a nutty flavor and extra nutrients.
Cooked Chicken: Using leftover or rotisserie chicken saves time. For a vegetarian twist, try adding chickpeas or diced tofu instead. Both bring protein and make the dish hearty.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a nice crunch! If you’re keeping it vegetarian, you can use crispy tempeh or skip the bacon altogether. I sometimes add smoked paprika to give a bacon-like flavor.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese is superb, but you can try feta or mozzarella for a different taste. Make it dairy-free with plant-based cheese alternatives.
How Can I Ensure My Pasta Doesn’t Get Mushy?
Cooking pasta correctly is key to a great salad texture. Follow these steps:
- Use plenty of water to boil your pasta. This helps prevent sticking.
- Cook until al dente, which means firm but not hard. It will continue cooking while cooling.
- Drain and rinse under cold water right after cooking to stop the cooking process and cool it down quickly.
- Give it a good shake in colander to remove excess water before mixing with other ingredients.
These steps will keep your pasta just right for the salad!
Easy Chicken Club Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz rotini or bowtie pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced cucumber
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Easy Chicken Club Pasta Salad takes around 15 minutes of prep time, plus an extra hour to chill in the refrigerator. You’ll spend just a few minutes cooking the pasta and mixing up the ingredients—giving you an easy meal that’s perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of water. Add the rotini or bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—meaning it should be firm to the bite. Once it’s done, drain and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set the pasta aside to cool.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cooled pasta, cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, diced cucumber, and chopped green onions. This mix brings together all those delicious flavors and textures!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ranch dressing, and lemon juice until it’s smooth and creamy. This dressing is what binds all the ingredients together and adds a lovely flavor.
4. Mix Everything Together:
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture. Gently toss everything together until all ingredients are coated with the dressing. Be careful not to mash the pasta or veggies while you mix!
5. Season and Chill:
Add salt and pepper to taste. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, give the salad a good stir and serve it chilled. Enjoy this delightful Easy Chicken Club Pasta Salad at any meal or gathering—it’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken works perfectly in this salad. Just dice or shred it for easy mixing!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you prefer a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. It adds creaminess and a bit of tang. Alternatively, a vegan mayonnaise works well for a dairy-free version.
Can I Make This Pasta Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, this salad is great for making ahead! You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge, and give it a good stir before serving.
How Should I Store Leftover Pasta Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best flavor and texture, enjoy it cold or at room temperature!