Ranch Chicken Tortellini Salad Recipes

CHICKEN AND TORTELLINI SALAD

Steps:

• Prepare the Vinaigrette: Combine all of the dressing ingredients in a large jar or measuring cup. Shake (or whisk) until completely combined. Set aside.
• Prepare the Chicken: Season chicken with salt and pepper on all sides, to taste. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place chicken in the skillet and allow the chicken to cook on one side, undisturbed, for at least 6-7 minutes. Flip, and cook the chicken for about 6-8 more minutes, or until it is nicely browned on both sides and cooked through.
• The chicken is cooked through when the internal temperature reaches 180 degrees F, or when juices run clear.
• When the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the skillet and place it on a cutting board to rest.
• Prepare the Tortellini: Cook the tortellini in a large saucepot according to package instructions. Drain.
• While the tortellini cooks, dice the chicken into bite-size pieces.
• Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, gently combine diced chicken, cooked tortellini, spinach, onion, tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese. Pour about ¼ cup vinaigrette over the salad (or more, to taste). Reserve remaining vinaigrette.*
• Cover and refrigerate salad until ready to serve. You can prepare this dish up to 1 day in advance. Stir in the chopped fresh basil just before serving.

CREAMY TORTELLINI SALAD WITH CHICKEN, BACON, AND RANCH DRESSING

Steps:

• Fill a large pot with lightly salted water and bring to a rolling boil. Stir in tortellini and return to a boil. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the tortellini float to the top and the filling is hot, about 3 minutes. Run tortellini under cold water and drain. Store in the refrigerator until chilled, at least 30 minutes.
• Stir ranch dressing and milk together in a large bowl. Add chilled pasta, cooked chicken, mozzarella, bacon, green onions, and parsley.
• Toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper if desired.