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As the sun shines brighter and the days grow longer, summer gatherings become a cherished tradition. Whether it's a backyard barbecue, a potluck picnic, or a family reunion, the quest for delicious and satisfying dishes is a common theme. Pasta salads, with their vibrant colors and diverse flavors, have become a staple at these events, offering both convenience and taste. Among the myriad of pasta salad options, one stands out for its delightful combination of ingredients and satisfying flavors: the Classic Chicken Cobb Pasta Salad.

Classic Chicken Cobb Pasta Salad

Get ready to impress at your summer gatherings with a Classic Chicken Cobb Pasta Salad! This vibrant and satisfying dish combines tender pasta, grilled chicken, crispy bacon, and fresh vegetables, all tossed in a tangy dressing. Perfect for potlucks or barbecues, it’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Enjoy the creamy avocado, crunchy toppings, and hearty ingredients that make each bite a delight. Dive into the summer taste of freshness and enjoy time with family and friends!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz rotini or penne pasta

1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced

4 slices of bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 avocado, diced

1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese

1/2 cup diced cucumber

1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/2 cup ranch dressing (or to taste)

Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional: 1/4 cup chopped walnuts for added crunch

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rotini or penne pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool and prevent further cooking. Set the pasta aside in a large mixing bowl.

    Prepare the Chicken: If using raw chicken, season the chicken breast generously with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs. Grill or sauté the chicken over medium heat until fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes per side. Allow it to cool slightly before shredding or dicing into bite-sized pieces.

      Cook the Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, add the bacon strips and cook until they are crispy and golden brown. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess grease, then crumble into small pieces.

        Combine the Ingredients: In the bowl with the cooled pasta, add the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, crumbled blue cheese, diced cucumber, sliced red onion, and chopped parsley. Gently toss all ingredients together until well mixed and evenly distributed.

          Dress the Salad: Drizzle the ranch dressing over the pasta mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then toss everything together again until all ingredients are well-coated with the dressing. Feel free to adjust the amount of dressing based on your taste preferences.

            Chill and Serve: For optimal flavor, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

              Garnish and Enjoy: Just before serving, give the salad a gentle toss once more. If desired, sprinkle the chopped walnuts on top for an extra crunch. Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature for a delightful meal.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 mins | 1 hr | Serves 4-6

                  Feel free to enjoy this delicious pasta salad as a light lunch or a side dish at your next gathering!