Description
This Avocado Ranch Chicken Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful meal perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners. Featuring a creamy homemade ranch dressing blended with avocado, tender shredded chicken, fresh vegetables, and a mix of cheeses, this pasta salad delivers a satisfying combination of textures and tastes in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Dressing
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayo
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1 tablespoon dried chives
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
Main Salad
- 8 ounces short cut pasta (choose your favorite shape)
- 1/2 cup salsa verde
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup cubed cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cubed spicy cheddar cheese (optional)
- 4 cups romaine lettuce (chopped)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1/4 cup fresh chopped cilantro
- 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 large avocado, diced
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, then add the short cut pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and let it cool completely.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a spacious mixing bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt (or sour cream), mayo, dried parsley, dried chives, dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and buttermilk until the mixture is light and creamy.
- Combine the Salad: In another large bowl, mix the cooled pasta with salsa verde, cooked shredded chicken, cubed cheddar cheese, cubed spicy cheddar cheese if using, chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, fresh chopped cilantro, crumbled cooked bacon, and diced avocado. Stir gently to evenly distribute all ingredients.
- Toss with Dressing: Pour the prepared ranch dressing over the pasta salad mixture and gently toss until every component is evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the salad and adjust seasoning as needed. For a creamier texture, gradually add more buttermilk until you reach your desired consistency.
Notes
- Ensure the pasta is fully cooled before combining with the dressing to prevent wilting the lettuce and avocado.
- The spicy cheddar cheese is optional but adds a nice kick to the salad.
- If you prefer a dairy-free version, substitute the Greek yogurt and mayo with suitable dairy-free alternatives.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days for optimal freshness.
- For added crunch, consider topping with toasted nuts or seeds before serving.
