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When it comes to summer meals, few dishes can rival the appeal of chilled pasta salads. Their versatility makes them a go-to option for everything from casual family lunches to festive gatherings. One standout recipe that perfectly embodies this refreshing category is the Chilled Chicken & Crispy Bacon Pasta Delight. This dish not only tantalizes the taste buds with its harmonious blend of flavors but also delivers a satisfying balance of protein, vegetables, and creamy dressing, making it an instant favorite for any occasion.

Cold Chicken & Bacon Pasta Salad

Looking for a refreshing summer meal? Try this Chilled Chicken & Crispy Bacon Pasta Delight! This pasta salad combines creamy dressing, tender chicken, and crispy bacon with vibrant veggies like cherry tomatoes and cucumber for a colorful dish that's perfect for picnics, barbecues, or weeknight dinners. Easy to make ahead and packed with protein and nutrients, it’s guaranteed to impress at any gathering. Discover the secret to this delicious recipe and elevate your pasta salad game!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz (225 g) penne pasta

1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced (rotisserie chicken works great)

6 strips of bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 cup cucumber, diced

1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced

1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

1/2 cup frozen peas (thawed)

1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

1/2 cup mayonnaise

1/4 cup Greek yogurt

2 tablespoons lemon juice

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water to cool down the pasta. Set aside.

    Prepare the Bacon: Cook the bacon strips in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into bite-sized pieces.

      Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced chicken, crumbled bacon, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, frozen peas, and fresh basil. Gently toss until everything is mixed.

        Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

          Dress the Salad: Pour the creamy dressing over the pasta salad mixture. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well-coated.

            Chill & Serve: Cover the pasta salad with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld together.

              Garnish and Enjoy: Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir and taste for seasoning. If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor. Serve cold and enjoy your refreshing Cold Chicken & Bacon Pasta Salad!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 1 hour 20 minutes | Serves 4-6