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High Protein Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

High Protein Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad That Packs a Flavor Punch

This High Protein Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad combines creamy ranch dressing, crunchy bacon, and wholesome chickpea pasta for a delicious and protein-packed meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Chickpea Pasta Gluten-free option is high in protein.
For the Protein
  • 1 lb Chicken Breast Lean source of protein.
For the Flavor
  • 2 tbsp Ranch Seasoning Hidden Valley is a trusted choice.
  • 6 slices Bacon Cook alongside chicken for infused flavor.
For the Crunch
  • 1 cup Red Onion Diced, adds slight sweetness.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Halved for better absorption.
  • 2 scallions Scallions Use white and light green parts.
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil Enhances overall flavor.
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika Adds a hint of smokiness.
  • 1 cup Ranch Dressing Substitute with yogurt-based dressing for lighter option.
  • 1/2 cup Greek Yogurt Thickens dressing and adds protein.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Baking sheet
  • Large pot
  • Medium bowl
  • spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Prepare your mise en place: dice the red onion, halve the cherry tomatoes, and slice the scallions.
  3. Cut chicken breast into 1-inch pieces and season with ranch seasoning; place on the baking sheet with bacon.
  4. Roast chicken and bacon in the oven for about 20 minutes, ensuring the chicken reaches at least 165°F.
  5. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the chickpea pasta for around 7-8 minutes.
  6. In a medium bowl, combine ranch dressing and Greek yogurt; whisk until smooth.
  7. Chop the roasted chicken and bacon into bite-sized pieces.
  8. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken, bacon, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and scallions.
  9. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss together until everything is well coated.
  10. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, and serve immediately or refrigerate for later.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 8gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Freezing without dressing is also possible for up to 3 months.

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