Chicken BLT Pasta Salad

Why You’ll Love Chicken BLT Pasta Salad Recipe

• Quick and easy to make in under 30 minutes
• Packed with fresh and savory flavors
• Perfect for potlucks, BBQs, and meal prep
• Filling enough to serve as a full meal
• Easy to customize with your favorite add-ins
• Great use for leftover chicken
• Creamy ranch dressing ties everything together perfectly

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

8 ounces penne pasta
1 pound thin-sliced chicken breasts
10 strips pre-cooked bacon
3 cups chopped romaine lettuce
1 cup cherry tomatoes
1 cup ranch dressing
3 tablespoons milk
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Cooking spray

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cool water to stop the cooking process.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper.
3. Spray a nonstick skillet with cooking spray and cook the chicken over medium heat for about 3–4 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and chop into bite-sized pieces.
4. In the same skillet, crisp the pre-cooked bacon over medium to medium-high heat for a few minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and chop once cooled.
5. Halve the cherry tomatoes and chop the romaine lettuce if needed.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing and milk until smooth and creamy.
7. Add the cooked pasta, chicken, bacon, lettuce, and tomatoes to a large mixing bowl.
8. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until evenly coated.
9. Serve immediately or chill for a colder pasta salad.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6 servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes

Variations

• Use rotisserie chicken for an even quicker meal.
• Swap ranch dressing for Caesar or honey mustard dressing.
• Add shredded cheddar cheese for extra richness.
• Include diced avocado for a creamy texture.
• Use turkey bacon for a lighter option.
• Replace penne with rotini, bow tie, or whole wheat pasta.
• Add green onions or red onions for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store Chicken BLT Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Because of the lettuce, the salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it still holds up well for leftovers. If desired, store the lettuce separately and mix it in just before serving for extra crunch.

This dish is meant to be served cold, so reheating is not necessary.

FAQs

Can I make Chicken BLT Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

What type of pasta works best?

Short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or bow tie pasta work best because they hold the dressing well.

Can I use leftover chicken?

Absolutely. Leftover grilled or rotisserie chicken works perfectly in this recipe.

How do I keep the lettuce crisp?

For maximum crunch, add the lettuce just before serving.

Can I use homemade ranch dressing?

Yes, homemade ranch dressing tastes great and works just as well.

Is this recipe served hot or cold?

Chicken BLT Pasta Salad is typically served cold or chilled.

Can I add cheese to this pasta salad?

Yes, cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan cheese are delicious additions.

Can I make this healthier?

You can use whole wheat pasta, turkey bacon, and light ranch dressing for a lighter version.

How long does it last in the fridge?

It stays fresh for about 2–3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

What should I serve with this pasta salad?

It pairs well with garlic bread, fresh fruit, grilled vegetables, or soup.

Conclusion

Chicken BLT Pasta Salad is a flavorful and easy meal that combines classic BLT ingredients with hearty pasta and creamy dressing for the perfect comfort food dish. Whether you’re serving it at a summer cookout, preparing lunches for the week, or making a quick family dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite.