Name: Chicken Club Pasta Salad: The Ultimate Summer Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6-8 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound pasta (rotini, penne, or farfalle); 1 cup cooked and diced chicken breast; 1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (about 8-10 slices); 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced; 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, cubed; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped; 1 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/4 cup buttermilk; 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix (store-bought or homemade); 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; Pinch of salt (to taste)

Chicken Club Pasta Salad: Prepare to be amazed! This isn't your average pasta salad; it's a flavor explosion that perfectly captures the essence of a classic chicken club sandwich in a delightful, easy-to-eat form. Imagine tender pasta, juicy grilled chicken, crispy bacon, ripe tomatoes, and creamy avocado all tossed in a tangy, flavorful dressing. Sounds incredible, right?

While the exact origins of Chicken Club Pasta Salad are a bit hazy, it's safe to say it's a modern American creation, born from our love of convenience and delicious flavor combinations. The chicken club sandwich itself, a beloved diner staple, likely emerged in the late 19th or early 20th century. This pasta salad takes those iconic flavors and transforms them into a crowd-pleasing dish perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a quick and satisfying weeknight meal.

What makes this pasta salad so irresistible? It's the perfect balance of textures and tastes. The creamy avocado and dressing contrast beautifully with the crisp bacon and tender chicken. The juicy tomatoes add a burst of freshness, while the pasta provides a satisfying base. Plus, it's incredibly versatile! You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or cheeses. But most importantly, it's just plain delicious. Get ready to experience a new level of pasta salad perfection!

Ingredients:

For the Pasta Salad:

1 pound pasta (rotini, penne, or farfalle work great!)
1 cup cooked and diced chicken breast
1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (about 8-10 slices)
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
1/2 cup cheddar cheese, cubed
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped

For the Creamy Ranch Dressing:

1 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup buttermilk
2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix (store-bought or homemade)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Pinch of salt (to taste)

Preparing the Pasta

Okay, let's get started! First things first, we need to cook our pasta. I like to use rotini because it holds the dressing really well, but feel free to use your favorite short pasta shape. Penne and farfalle are also excellent choices.

Boil the Pasta: Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a rolling boil. Adding salt to the water is crucial because it seasons the pasta from the inside out. Don't skimp on the salt!
Cook to Al Dente: Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package directions, but check it a minute or two before the recommended time. We want the pasta to be al dente, which means "to the tooth" in Italian. It should be firm but not crunchy. Overcooked pasta will be mushy in the salad, and we definitely don't want that!
Drain and Rinse: Once the pasta is cooked to al dente, drain it immediately in a colander. Then, rinse it thoroughly with cold water. This stops the cooking process and prevents the pasta from sticking together. Rinsing also helps cool the pasta down quickly, so it's ready to be mixed with the other ingredients.
Cool Completely: After rinsing, let the pasta cool completely. You can spread it out on a baking sheet to speed up the cooling process. This is important because we don't want the heat from the pasta to wilt the vegetables or melt the cheese in the salad.

Preparing the Chicken and Bacon

While the pasta is cooking and cooling, let's get the chicken and bacon ready. These are the stars of our "club" element, so we want them to be perfectly cooked and flavorful.

Cook the Chicken: If you don't have leftover cooked chicken, you can easily cook some up. I prefer to grill or bake chicken breasts for this recipe. To grill, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs or spices. Grill over medium heat for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). To bake, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken breasts and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, let the chicken cool slightly and then dice it into bite-sized pieces.
Cook the Bacon: There are several ways to cook bacon, but my favorite is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the bacon slices in a single layer. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy. Alternatively, you can cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain off the excess grease. Let it cool slightly and then crumble it into small pieces.

Preparing the Creamy Ranch Dressing

Now, for the dressing! This creamy ranch dressing is what really brings the whole salad together. It's so easy to make, and it tastes way better than store-bought.

Combine the Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, ranch seasoning mix, lemon juice, minced garlic, and black pepper.
Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add a pinch of salt, more black pepper, or a little extra lemon juice to brighten it up.
Chill the Dressing: For the best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate the dressing for at least 30 minutes before using. This allows the flavors to meld together.

Assembling the Chicken Club Pasta Salad

Alright, we've got all our components ready to go. Now it's time to assemble the pasta salad! This is the fun part where everything comes together.

Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced chicken, crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, cubed cheddar cheese, chopped parsley, and chopped chives.
Add the Dressing: Pour the chilled creamy ranch dressing over the pasta salad. Start with about 3/4 of the dressing and add more as needed, until the salad is nicely coated but not swimming in dressing.
Gently Toss: Gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is evenly distributed and coated with the dressing. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the pasta mushy.
Chill Before Serving: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the salad to chill thoroughly. Chilling also helps prevent the salad from becoming too dry, as the pasta will absorb some of the dressing over time.
Serve and Enjoy: Before serving, give the pasta salad another gentle toss. Garnish with extra chopped parsley or chives, if desired. Serve chilled and enjoy! This pasta salad is perfect for picnics, potlucks, barbecues, or a quick and easy weeknight meal.

Tips and Variations:

Add Avocado: For an extra creamy and healthy addition, add diced avocado to the pasta salad just before serving.
Use Different Cheese: Instead of cheddar cheese, try using Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or even crumbled blue cheese for a different flavor profile.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a little heat.
Make it Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and bacon and add more vegetables, such as bell peppers, cucumbers, or zucchini. You can also add chickpeas or black beans for extra protein.
Use a Different Dressing: If you're not a fan of ranch dressing, you can use a vinaigrette, Italian dressing, or even a creamy Caesar dressing.
Make it Ahead: This pasta salad can be made a day ahead of time. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You may need to add a little extra dressing before serving, as the pasta will absorb some of the dressing overnight.
Add Some Crunch: For added texture, consider adding some croutons or toasted nuts to the salad just before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve as a side dish at a barbecue or picnic.
Pack it in a lunchbox for a quick and easy meal.
Serve it as a main course with a side of garlic bread or a green salad.
Bring it to a potluck or party.

I hope you enjoy this Chicken Club Pasta Salad as much as I do! It's a crowd-pleaser that's sure to be a hit at any gathering. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! This Chicken Club Pasta Salad is so much more than just a simple salad; it's a complete meal bursting with flavor and textures that will leave you wanting more. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying dish, especially during those warm summer months. It's the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and fresh, making it a crowd-pleaser for potlucks, picnics, or even a simple weeknight dinner. Why is it a must-try? Well, beyond the incredible taste, it's incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt it to your own preferences and dietary needs. Don't have rotisserie chicken on hand? Grilled chicken breasts or even leftover roasted turkey work beautifully. Vegetarian? Simply omit the chicken and add more veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or even some grilled halloumi for a salty, cheesy kick. The possibilities are endless! Speaking of variations, let's talk serving suggestions. I love serving this Chicken Club Pasta Salad chilled, straight from the fridge, as it allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully. However, it's also delicious at room temperature, making it ideal for outdoor gatherings. For a lighter option, you can use a light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt in the dressing. To add a bit of spice, consider incorporating a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Here are a few more ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Elevate the Greens: Swap out some of the lettuce for baby spinach or arugula for a peppery bite. * Add Some Crunch: Toasted pecans or walnuts would add a delightful nutty crunch. * Spice it Up: A sprinkle of Cajun seasoning or a drizzle of sriracha mayo can take the flavor profile to a whole new level. * Make it a Wrap: Spoon the salad into lettuce cups or tortillas for a fun and portable lunch. * Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary restrictions. * Add Avocado: Diced avocado adds creaminess and healthy fats. * Make it a bowl: Serve over a bed of quinoa or rice for a heartier meal. I've poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, and I'm confident that you'll love it as much as I do. It's a guaranteed hit at any gathering, and it's so simple to make that even beginner cooks can master it. The combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and creamy dressing is simply irresistible. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, put on some music, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece. I promise you won't be disappointed. This Chicken Club Pasta Salad is destined to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Now, for the most important part: I want to hear from you! Once you've tried this recipe, please share your experience in the comments below. Did you make any modifications? What did you think of the flavor? What did your family and friends say? I'm eager to hear your feedback and see your creations. Don't forget to tag me in your photos on social media – I can't wait to see your delicious Chicken Club Pasta Salad! Happy cooking!