Name: Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
Ingredients: Kosher salt; 1 lb. gemelli or penne; 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil; 2 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Freshly ground black pepper; 4 slices bacon, cooked, crumbled (about ½ cup); 1/2 cup ranch dressing; 2 tbsp thinly sliced chives

Rian Handler

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

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Ingredients Method

Ingredients

Kosher salt
1 lb. gemelli or penne
1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
2 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Freshly ground black pepper
4 slices bacon, cooked, crumbled (about ½ cup)
1/2 cup ranch dressing
2 tbsp thinly sliced chives

Method

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook gemelli, stirring occasionally, until al dente according to package directions. Drain and transfer to a large bowl.
Meanwhile, in a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat oil. Season chicken with salt and pepper and cook, turning halfway through, until an instant-read thermometer inserted into thickest part registers 165°, 5 to 8 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Transfer to a cutting board, let rest for 10 minutes, then cut into 1" pieces.
To bowl, add chicken, bacon, and ranch and toss until combined; season with salt and pepper. Top with chives.