Save It The kitchen was chaotic that Sunday afternoon, my niece bouncing between my legs asking if she could help while bacon popped and hissed on the stove. I was trying to figure out what to do with leftover grilled chicken from the night before, half a bag of pasta shells, and a garden full of cherry tomatoes that needed using. Something about the smoky bacon smell made me crave that classic BLT combination, but I wanted it to be substantial enough for dinner. That completely unscripted moment became one of those happy accidents that turned into a regular request.
My brother showed up unexpectedly while I was tossing everything together and hovered around the bowl like a shark. He claimed he was just taste testing but kept finding reasons to walk past the counter until I finally had to transfer some to a smaller bowl just to save enough for dinner. Now whenever I make it, I double the recipe because somehow word spreads through the family before the pasta even cools down completely.
Ingredients
- 8 oz medium pasta shells: These little cups catch all that creamy dressing and small bits of bacon in every bite
- 2 cups cooked grilled chicken breast: Use whatever leftover grilled chicken you have or quickly grill some specifically for this
- 6 slices bacon: Cook until really crisp so it stays crunchy even after tossing with the dressing
- 1 ½ cups romaine lettuce: Adds that classic BLT crunch and freshness without getting soggy like some greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes: The sweetness balances the smoky bacon perfectly
- ½ cup red onion: Finely diced gives little sharp bites that cut through the creamy dressing
- ⅓ cup light mayonnaise: The base that brings everything together without being too heavy
- 2 tbsp Greek yogurt: My secret trick for keeping the dressing light and tangy
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Brightens up all those rich flavors and keeps the pasta from feeling dull
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard: Just enough to give the dressing depth without overpowering anything
- ½ tsp garlic powder: Subtle background flavor that makes people wonder what makes it so good
- Salt and black pepper: Dont be shy with these since pasta soaks up seasoning quickly
Instructions
- Cook the pasta perfectly:
- Boil those shells according to the package but taste test a minute early. Rinse under cold water until completely cool so they stop cooking and dont turn into mush.
- Make the creamy dressing:
- Whisk everything together until completely smooth. It should coat the back of a spoon without running off too quickly.
- Combine everything:
- Gently fold all the ingredients together, taking care not to mash those cherry tomatoes. The pasta should be evenly coated without drowning.
- Let it hang out:
- Serve right away if you are hungry, but 20 minutes in the fridge lets all those flavors become best friends.
Save It Last summer I brought this to a potluck and came home with an empty bowl and three separate requests for the recipe. Watching people go back for thirds while asking what was in the dressing made me realize it is not just another pasta salad. It is the kind of dish that makes people feel taken care of.
Making It Ahead
You can absolutely prep everything the night before, just keep the lettuce separate and the dressing in its own container. The pasta and chicken actually benefit from hanging out together overnight. When you are ready to serve, toss the lettuce in at the very last minute so it stays crisp and fresh.
Customization Options
Sometimes I swap in diced avocado for extra creaminess, or add shredded sharp cheddar when I want something more indulgent. The base formula is so forgiving that you can play around based on what you have. Just keep that smoky bacon and fresh tomato combo intact and you cannot go wrong.
Serving Suggestions
This works as a standalone meal but also plays nicely alongside grilled corn or simple roasted vegetables. If I am serving it as a side dish, I keep the portions smaller. It is surprisingly filling thanks to all that protein.
- Chill your serving bowls for 10 minutes before plating, it makes a difference
- Sprinkle extra bacon crumbles on top for that restaurant style finish
- Have extra lemon wedges on hand for anyone who loves a brighter bite
Save It There is something about that first bite, with all the textures and flavors working together, that just feels like summer on a plate even in the middle of winter.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → What pasta works best for this dish?
Medium pasta shells hold the dressing well and complement the chunkier ingredients perfectly.
- → How can I add extra flavor?
Incorporate diced avocado or shredded cheddar cheese to enhance richness and depth.
- → Can I substitute turkey bacon?
Yes, turkey bacon provides a lighter option with a similar smoky taste.
- → Is it better served chilled or fresh?
Both work well: fresh for crispness, chilled to allow flavors to meld.
- → What drinks pair well with this meal?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or iced tea complements the smoky and fresh elements nicely.
- → How do I keep the lettuce crisp if prepping ahead?
Add lettuce just before serving to maintain its crunch and freshness.