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High-Protein Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients

  • Chicken breast
  • Olive oil
  • Garlic powder
  • Smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper
  • Bacon
  • Short pasta rotini, penne, or shells
  • Greek yogurt
  • Mayo
  • Milk
  • Ranch seasoning
  • Cherry tomatoes
  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Green onions
  • Fresh parsley optional

Instructions

  • Cook Your Chicken: Season chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Air fry at 375°F for 12-15 minutes (or bake at 400°F for 20 min). Dice once cooled.
  • Crisp Up the Bacon: Cook bacon until crispy (air fryer or stovetop), then chop into bite-sized pieces.
  • Boil the Pasta: Cook pasta until just al dente. Rinse with cold water to stop the cooking.
  • Mix the Ranch Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk Greek yogurt, mayo, milk, ranch seasoning, and spices until smooth.
  • Toss It All Together: In a large bowl, mix pasta, chicken, bacon, tomatoes, cheese, and green onions. Drizzle on the ranch dressing and toss to coat. Garnish with parsley if desired.