Chicken Pasta Salad with Ranch or Italian 🍗🥗 Hearty, Cool, and Built for Flavor Flexibility

Chicken Pasta Salad with Ranch or Italian Dressing is a protein-packed, make-ahead meal that works as a side or a full lunch.

Use whatever leftover or grilled chicken you’ve got, mix in your favorite crunchy veggies, and toss with your choice of creamy ranch or bright Italian dressing. No wrong turns here.

Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

• 12 oz short pasta (penne, rotini, shells, or bowtie)
• 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped or shredded (grilled, rotisserie, or baked)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ¾ cup cucumber, chopped
• ½ cup shredded carrots
• ½ cup bell pepper, diced
• ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
• ½ cup shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or feta (optional)
• 2–3 tbsp chopped parsley, dill, or green onion
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Dressing Options:

Creamy Ranch Version

• ½ cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tbsp Greek yogurt or sour cream for extra creaminess (optional)
• Dash of garlic powder and black pepper

Zesty Italian Version

• ⅓ cup olive oil
• 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water until completely cooled. Shake dry.

Step 2: Prep the Dressing

For ranch: stir together ranch and any add-ins until smooth.
For Italian: whisk together all ingredients until emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Step 3: Toss the Salad

In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, chopped chicken, veggies, cheese (if using), and herbs. Add dressing and toss until everything is well coated.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Toss again and adjust seasoning. Add a drizzle of extra dressing if it looks dry.

Flavor Variations

• Add bacon bits or avocado to the ranch version for a club-style twist
• Use grilled zucchini, artichokes, or olives in the Italian version
• Stir in chickpeas or white beans for an extra protein bump
• Try ranch + buffalo sauce for a spicy kick

Serving Ideas

• Serve cold or room temp for BBQs, picnics, or lunches
• Great as a meal prep bowl with extra greens
• Pairs well with watermelon, lemonade, or crisp iced tea
• Use as a sandwich or wrap filling

Pro Tips

• Let it chill at least 30 minutes for best flavor
• Use rotisserie or leftover grilled chicken for fast prep
• Cook pasta just to al dente — softer pasta breaks after chilling
• Store in an airtight container up to 4 days in the fridge

Final Thoughts

Chicken Pasta Salad with Ranch or Italian gives you creamy comfort or zesty bite in one flexible, chilled bowl. Whether you’re craving richness or something bright and herbaceous, it’s an easy win packed with protein and color.

Toss it bold. Chill it hard. Make it yours. 🍗🥗🍝