why make this recipe
One-Skillet Spicy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the zesty flavors of buffalo sauce with the creamy goodness of ranch dressing. It’s an easy, one-pan recipe, making it perfect for busy weeknights. This meal not only satisfies your hunger but also adds a bit of spice to your dinner table. Plus, it’s easy to customize and can be ready in under 30 minutes!
how to make One-Skillet Spicy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta
Ingredients:
- 1 lb cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
- 12 oz rotini or penne pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the cooked chicken and sauté for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes).
- Reduce the heat to low; stir in heavy cream, buffalo sauce, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat and mix in shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
how to serve One-Skillet Spicy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta
Serve this delicious pasta hot right from the skillet. You can top it off with some chopped green onions, extra cheese, or even a drizzle of buffalo sauce for added flavor. This dish goes well with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.
how to store One-Skillet Spicy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the pasta cool down before sealing it. When you’re ready to eat, reheat the pasta on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore some of the sauce’s creaminess.
tips to make One-Skillet Spicy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy option.
- Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to control the level of spiciness.
- Add some veggies like spinach or bell peppers to enhance the dish’s nutrition.
- Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier choice.
variation
You can easily switch up this recipe by using different proteins like shrimp or turkey instead of chicken. Also, you can choose different pasta shapes based on your preference. For a lighter version, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
FAQs
Can I use uncooked chicken?
Yes, but you will need to cook the chicken thoroughly in the skillet before adding the broth and pasta.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Absolutely! It stores well and can make for quick lunches throughout the week.
What if I don’t like spicy food?
You can reduce or omit the buffalo sauce and use a mild ranch seasoning for a milder flavor.
Enjoy making and sharing this One-Skillet Spicy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta! It’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
Print
One-Skillet Spicy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta
A delightful one-pan dish combining zesty buffalo sauce and creamy ranch dressing that can be ready in under 30 minutes.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 lb cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
- 12 oz rotini or penne pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the cooked chicken and sauté for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes).
- Reduce the heat to low; stir in heavy cream, buffalo sauce, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat and mix in shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Notes
Use rotisserie chicken for quick preparation. Adjust buffalo sauce for spiciness and add vegetables for nutrition.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: None
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
