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Creamy Ranch Protein Pasta

Section: Satisfying Main Dishes for Every Occasion

This creamy ranch protein pasta brings together tender pasta and a flavorful ranch-based dressing with a fresh mix of vegetables and hearty proteins like chicken or chickpeas. The dressing combines Greek yogurt and classic ranch flavors that cling smoothly to each bite, creating a creamy yet refreshing balance. Enhanced by crisp cucumber, sweet cherry tomatoes, and hints of fresh herbs, it offers vibrant textures and tastes. Ideal for quick meal prep or family gatherings, this dish stays fresh chilled and can be tailored to your preferences with simple swaps or additions.

With a satisfying protein boost, it fuels busy days while delivering comforting, zesty flavor that never feels heavy. Serve it chilled or light green salad and enjoy a nourishing, versatile dish any time of year.

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Published By Evelyn
Updated as of Tue, 17 Feb 2026 15:00:59 GMT
A bowl of pasta salad with chicken, tomatoes, cucumbers, and cheese. Bookmark
A bowl of pasta salad with chicken, tomatoes, cucumbers, and cheese. | foodbymary.com

Creamy Ranch Protein Pasta Salad is a wonderful mix of comfort and nutrition that has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen. This dish delivers creamy, tangy ranch flavor with hearty pasta and fresh vegetables, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. You can easily swap ingredients to fit your family’s preferences or what you have on hand, which keeps me coming back to this salad time and again.

I first made this salad on a hectic weeknight and was amazed at how my whole family loved it. Now it’s a regular request when I need a reliable, healthy meal on the table.

Ingredients

  • Pasta: 8 ounces I like whole wheat or protein-enriched pasta to boost nutrition and add texture.
  • Cooked chicken breast: 1 cup Adds lean protein that makes the salad filling without heaviness.
  • Greek yogurt: half a cup Provides creamy tang and reduces reliance on mayo, plus it packs protein.
  • Ranch dressing: quarter cup The key ingredient, offering that classic herbaceous, creamy taste everyone loves.
  • Cherry tomatoes: 1 cup halved Brightens the dish with freshness and a colorful pop.
  • Cucumber: half a cup diced Adds crunch and lightness, balancing the creamy dressing.
  • Red onion: quarter cup finely chopped Gives subtle sharpness to cut through richness.
  • Shredded cheese: quarter cup of cheddar or mozzarella Melts into the mix giving richness and flavor depth.
  • Salt and pepper: to taste Essential seasoning to bring all the flavors together nicely.
  • Fresh dill or parsley: 1 tablespoon chopped Adds a burst of herbal brightness right before serving.

Choosing Ingredients

Choose fresh, firm vegetables for the best crunch and pick chicken breast with minimal seasoning so your dressing shines through.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente, meaning tender but still firm to the bite. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool the noodles, keeping them from sticking.
Prepare the Chicken:
Use leftover cooked chicken shredded or baked fresh chicken breasts seasoned lightly then cooked fully to 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Let the chicken cool before chopping into bite-sized pieces for even bites throughout the salad.
Mix the Dressing:
In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt and ranch dressing until smooth and creamy. This blends creaminess with tang and herbs that coat each bite.
Combine Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add cooled pasta, chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and shredded cheese. Pour the dressing on top. Gently toss to evenly coat everything without bruising the veggies.
Season and Serve:
Add salt, pepper, and fresh herbs such as dill or parsley. Give a final toss. Serve immediately for a fresh crunch or chill in the fridge for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld beautifully.
A bowl of food with chicken, pasta, tomatoes, broccoli, cucumbers, and cheese. Bookmark
A bowl of food with chicken, pasta, tomatoes, broccoli, cucumbers, and cheese. | foodbymary.com

The Greek yogurt is my favorite ingredient it lightens the creaminess while adding nutrition. One family dinner I brought this to was met with surprise when I revealed the creamy base was mostly yogurt and not just mayonnaise. Everyone loved the balance of flavor and health.

Storage Tips

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Expect the pasta to absorb some dressing overnight so stir in a little extra ranch or Greek yogurt before serving again to refresh the creaminess. Avoid freezing as the texture of pasta and veggies can change after thawing.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Swap chicken for chickpeas or black beans for a vegetarian twist that still provides protein.
  • Use dairy-free yogurt and cheese substitutes to make it suitable for lactose intolerance.
  • Add avocado for extra creaminess and rich healthy fats.
  • Replace ranch dressing with a lemon vinaigrette to lighten the salad and add a citrusy note.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this creamy salad alongside garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a balanced, crowd-pleasing meal. A glass of iced tea or lemonade pairs especially well, complementing the creamy and herby flavors without overpowering them.

Pro Tips

  • Make sure to rinse the cooked pasta under cold water to stop the cooking and prevent clumping.
  • Let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes before serving so flavors can marry nicely.
  • Add the fresh herbs at the very end to keep their brightness and avoid wilting.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can this dish be prepared in advance?

Yes, it’s ideal for meal prep. Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness and texture.

→ What proteins work well in this pasta?

Chicken breast is a popular choice, but chickpeas, shrimp, turkey, or tofu are excellent alternatives depending on dietary preference.

→ How should the pasta be cooked?

Cook the pasta until al dente according to package directions, then rinse with cold water to stop cooking and prevent clumping.

→ What makes the dressing creamy without heaviness?

Using Greek yogurt as the base adds creaminess and protein while keeping the dressing light and tangy.

→ Can this dish be adapted for gluten-free options?

Absolutely, by substituting regular pasta with gluten-free varieties, you can enjoy this dish without gluten.

→ What fresh ingredients add texture and flavor?

Cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and fresh herbs like dill or parsley provide crunch, color, and bright notes.

Creamy Ranch Protein Pasta

Delicious creamy ranch pasta mixed with protein and fresh vegetables for a hearty, flavorful dish.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Cooking Time
20 minutes
Complete Time
35 minutes
Published By: Evelyn

Recipe Category: Main Dishes

Skill Level: Beginner-Friendly

Cuisine Type: American

Total Portions: 4 Serves How Many

Dietary Preferences: ~

Required Ingredients

→ Pasta

01 227 g dry chickpea pasta or high-protein pasta

→ Vegetables

02 150 g raw broccoli, chopped
03 150 g red bell pepper, diced
04 120 g cucumber, diced
05 135 g coleslaw mix

→ Cheese & Nutritional Additives

06 30 g nutritional yeast or parmesan cheese

→ Chicken

07 2 chicken breasts (approx. 425 g)
08 15 ml olive oil
09 0.5 g garlic powder
10 0.5 g paprika
11 0.5 g salt
12 0.5 g black pepper

→ Dressing

13 180 ml plain Greek yogurt
14 45 ml mayonnaise (optional)
15 15 ml Dijon mustard
16 30 ml lemon juice

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 01

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the chickpea pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to halt cooking.

Step 02

Season chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook via grilling or baking until internal temperature reaches 74°C. Allow to cool, then chop into bite-sized pieces.

Step 03

In a mixing bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise (if using), Dijon mustard, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy.

Step 04

In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chopped chicken, broccoli, red bell pepper, cucumber, nutritional yeast or parmesan, and coleslaw mix. Pour dressing over the ingredients and toss gently until evenly coated.

Step 05

Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Toss in fresh herbs such as dill or parsley for added freshness, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Handy Cooking Tips

  1. Rinsing pasta after cooking prevents sticking and keeps the salad crisp.
  2. Chilling the salad before serving allows flavors to meld and intensify.

Necessary Kitchen Tools

  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Spoon or spatula for tossing salad

Allergy Details

Always check ingredient packaging for potential allergens and consult a healthcare professional when in doubt.
  • Contains dairy and egg (mayonnaise) allergens. Use dairy-free yogurt and omit mayonnaise to reduce.
  • Contains gluten if pasta is not gluten-free; substitute with gluten-free pasta as needed.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

These nutrition details are for guidance and don’t replace professional advice.
  • Calories: 350
  • Fat: 15 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 40 grams
  • Proteins: 25 grams