Description
This Chicken BLT Pasta Salad is a creamy and satisfying dish loaded with tender chicken, crispy bacon, fresh romaine, and juicy tomatoes. Tossed with ranch dressing and pasta, it is perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or a quick family dinner.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 1 pound thin-sliced chicken breasts
- 10 strips pre-cooked bacon
- 3 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- 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.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper.
- Spray a nonstick skillet with cooking spray and cook the chicken over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and chop into bite-sized pieces.
- 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.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes and chop the romaine lettuce if needed.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing and milk until smooth and creamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, bacon, lettuce, and tomatoes.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until evenly coated.
- Serve immediately or chill before serving for a colder pasta salad.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Add shredded cheddar cheese or avocado for extra richness.
- Store lettuce separately if making ahead to keep it crisp.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This salad is best served cold.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Boil
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 980 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
