BLT Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
BLT Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad with homemade Jalapeño Basil Ranch. Perfect for 4th of July cookouts, backyard dinners, and game day!
Servings: 8
Calories: 462kcal
Ingredients
Pickled Jalapeño Ranch
- 1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup mayo
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup fresh chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh chopped dill
- 1/4 cup fresh chopped chives
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon sea salt and black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped pickled jalapeños + 2 tablespoons brine
The Salad
- 1 pound short cut pasta (I use Gemelli or Bow Tie Pasta)
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 1-2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup cubed cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cubed spicy cheddar cheese (optional)
- 2 cups shredded romaine lettuce
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 slices cooked bacon, chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh chopped cilantro, basil, or both
Instructions
- 1. To make the ranch. Whisk together all of the dressing ingredients in a glass measuring cup or jar until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.2. To make the salad. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente according to the package directions. Drain.3. Toss the warm pasta in a large bowl with the buffalo sauce. Add the chicken, cheeses, romaine, tomatoes, and as much ranch as desired. 4. Top with the bacon and fresh herbs, plus additional ranch. If making ahead, add the romaine, tomatoes, and bacon just before serving.
Nutrition
Calories: 462kcal
