Chicken Turkey Ranch Pasta Salad

Chicken Turkey Ranch Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that brings together savory flavors in a quick and easy meal. This pasta salad recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a refreshing family dinner. With tender chicken, crispy turkey and a creamy ranch dressing, it’s sure to be a hit at your table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Family Favorite: The combination of chicken and turkey appeals to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone enjoys it.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side salad for barbecues or as a main dish on its own; customize with your favorite veggies.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The creamy ranch dressing adds a burst of flavor that enhances the taste of fresh ingredients.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein from chicken and turkey, plus fiber from peas and tomatoes.

Tools and Preparation

To make Chicken Turkey Ranch Pasta Salad, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to help you create this delicious dish effortlessly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking pasta evenly without overcrowding.
• Colander: Helps drain excess water from pasta efficiently.
• Mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients easily.
• Spoon or spatula: Makes stirring the ingredients together simple and ensures everything is well-coated.

Ingredients

For the Salad Base

• 2 cups small dry pasta (about 8 ounces)
• 1 cup frozen peas (rinsed in warm water)
• 1 cup tomato pieces
• 1/4 cup chopped green onion
• 2 cups cooked chicken (about 8 ounces)
• 4 ounces cooked turkey

For the Dressing

• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1/3 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning
• salt (to taste)
• pepper (to taste)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Chicken Turkey Ranch Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil water in a large pot.
2. Add the small dry pasta to the boiling water.
3. Cook according to package directions until al dente.
4. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

1. In a mixing bowl, add the rinsed pasta.
2. Incorporate the frozen peas, cooked chicken, turkey tomato pieces, and green onion into the pasta.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sour cream, and ranch seasoning until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture.
2. Stir everything together until well-coated with dressing.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Serve

Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for later enjoyment!

How to Serve Chicken Turkey Ranch Pasta Salad

Serving Chicken Turkey Ranch Pasta Salad is simple and versatile. This dish can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, making it perfect for any occasion. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious pasta salad.

As a Main Dish

• Enjoy it as a hearty main course. The protein from the chicken and turkey makes it filling enough for lunch or dinner.

At a Barbecue

• Serve it alongside grilled meats. This pasta salad pairs perfectly with burgers, hot dogs, and barbecue chicken, adding a refreshing touch to your summer cookouts.

As a Picnic Item

• Pack it for picnics or outdoor gatherings. Its portability and ease of serving make it an ideal choice for eating al fresco.

With Bread

• Offer with crusty bread or rolls. A side of garlic bread or dinner rolls complements the creamy texture of the salad beautifully.

As a Side Dish

• Use as a side at family gatherings. It can easily complement any meal, enhancing your dining experience with its rich flavors.

How to Perfect Chicken Turkey Ranch Pasta Salad

Perfecting Chicken Turkey Ranch Pasta Salad is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Choose the right pasta: Opt for small pasta shapes like rotini or elbow macaroni that hold the dressing well.
• Add fresh herbs: Incorporate chopped parsley or dill for added freshness and flavor.
• Mix in extra veggies: Consider bell peppers, cucumbers, or corn for added crunch and nutrition.
• Let it chill: Allowing the salad to sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavors as they meld together.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust salt and pepper to your preference for the best flavor balance.
• Garnish creatively: Top with additional green onions or crispy turkey bits just before serving for an appealing presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Turkey Ranch Pasta Salad

Chicken Turkey Ranch Pasta Salad makes a delightful centerpiece, but pairing it with the right sides can enhance your meal even more. Here are some excellent side dishes that complement this pasta salad beautifully:

1. Grilled Vegetables: Toss seasonal vegetables on the grill for a smoky flavor that pairs well with the creamy salad.
2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds sweetness and balances the savory elements of the pasta dish.
3. Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw brings a nice contrast in texture and flavor, making it an ideal sidekick.
4. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and cherry tomatoes on skewers provide a light appetizer that matches well with any summer meal.
5. Potato Chips: Classic potato chips offer a fun crunch that kids will love while enjoying their pasta salad.
6. Deviled Eggs: These classic bites add protein and are always a crowd-pleaser at any gathering or barbecue.
7. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter make for an irresistible addition alongside this creamy pasta dish.
8. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice or quinoa add flair and nutrition to your meal spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chicken Turkey Ranch Pasta Salad can be quick and easy, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking the pasta too long can make it mushy. Always follow the package instructions for al dente texture.
• Skipping Rinsing: Not rinsing the pasta after cooking can lead to clumping. Rinse it in cold water to stop cooking and cool it down.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Neglecting to season with salt and pepper can leave your salad bland. Taste and adjust before serving for the best flavor.
• Using Warm Ingredients: Adding warm ingredients like chicken can cause the dressing to separate. Make sure everything is at room temperature or cooler before mixing.
• Not Chilling Before Serving: Serving immediately may not allow flavors to blend well. Letting it chill in the fridge enhances taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It stays fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Turkey Ranch Pasta Salad

• Freezing is not recommended as it can affect texture and flavor.
• If you must freeze, use a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 month.

Reheating Chicken Turkey Ranch Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat covered for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pan over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Chicken Turkey Ranch Pasta Salad healthier?

You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream and use whole grain pasta for added nutrition.

Can I customize my Chicken Turkey Ranch Pasta Salad?

Yes! Add veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers, or swap out turkey for regular  based on your preference.

How long does Chicken Turkey Ranch Pasta Salad last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, it lasts up to 3 days.

What makes this Chicken Turkey Ranch Pasta Salad special?

The combination of flavors from chicken, turkey, and ranch dressing creates a deliciously satisfying dish that’s perfect for any gathering.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Turkey Ranch Pasta Salad is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients. Whether served at a summer barbecue or as a simple weeknight dinner side, it’s bound to please everyone at the table. Give it a try!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Chicken Turkey Ranch Pasta Salad

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Lucille
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Chicken Turkey Ranch Pasta Salad is a deliciously satisfying dish that combines tender chicken, crispy turkey, and a creamy ranch dressing for an unforgettable flavor experience. Perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or picnics, this pasta salad can be prepared in just 20 minutes. With its delightful mix of textures and fresh ingredients like peas and tomatoes, it’s a versatile meal that can be served as a main dish or side. Customize it with your favorite vegetables for added crunch and nutrition, making it a family favorite everyone will love!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups small dry pasta
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 2 cups cooked chicken
• 4 ounces cooked turkey
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1/3 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning
• salt (to taste)
• pepper (to taste)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente; drain and rinse with cold water.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine rinsed pasta with peas, chicken, turkey, tomatoes, and green onions.
3. In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, and ranch seasoning until smooth.
4. Pour dressing over pasta mixture; stir until well-coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or chill in the fridge before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 70mg