If you are craving a meal that packs bold flavors with minimal fuss, this One-Skillet Spicy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta Recipe will quickly become your new weeknight favorite. Creamy, cheesy, and bursting with the perfect amount of heat, this dish combines tender chicken, zesty buffalo sauce, and cool ranch into a velvety pasta that’s all made in a single pan. It’s comfort food with a kick that’s as vibrant in taste as it is easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy evenings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe is chosen for its role in delivering texture, flavor, and that iconic spicy-creamy balance. These staples come together simply but make a huge impact in every bite.
- Olive oil: The perfect base for searing chicken and developing rich flavor.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breast: Tender, bite-sized pieces that soak up all the sauce.
- Salt and pepper: Basic seasonings that bring out the best in every ingredient.
- Garlic: Adds a subtle aromatic depth to the dish.
- Uncooked penne pasta: Holds the sauce beautifully and provides satisfying texture.
- Chicken broth: Infuses the pasta with savory flavor while cooking.
- Buffalo wing sauce: Brings the spicy boldness that defines this dish.
- Heavy cream: Gives the sauce its luxurious, creamy consistency.
- Ranch dressing: Adds cool tanginess to balance the heat perfectly.
- Mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey, cheesy goodness.
- Cheddar cheese: Introduces sharpness and richness for depth.
- Optional garnishes: Chopped parsley or green onions brighten the final dish.
- Optional extra heat: More buffalo sauce or crushed red pepper flakes if you really want to turn up the spice.
How to Make One-Skillet Spicy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Chicken to Golden Perfection
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt and pepper. This step is crucial because a golden, slightly crisp outside locks in juices and gives you a beautiful texture contrast. Cook for about 5 to 6 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté just for 30 seconds to infuse the oil and chicken with that irresistible garlic aroma without burning it.
Step 2: Build Your Flavorful Sauce Base
Next, reduce the heat to medium and pour in the chicken broth, buffalo wing sauce, heavy cream, and ranch dressing. Give the skillet a good scrape, loosening all those tasty browned bits from the bottom—this is flavor gold! Stir everything together until smooth and evenly combined. The mix of spicy buffalo sauce with cool ranch and creamy heavy cream creates a luscious, balanced sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta later on.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta in the Sauce
Add the uncooked penne pasta straight into the skillet and stir to coat every piece in the sauce. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and cover the skillet. Let the pasta simmer for about 13 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This method cooks the pasta right in the sauce, allowing it to soak up all those flavors and finish perfectly al dente without any need for extra pots.
Step 4: Melt in the Cheeses for Creamy Indulgence
Once your pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, stir in the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese. Keep mixing until the cheese melts completely, creating an irresistibly creamy, cheesy coating that ties the whole dish together. Give it a taste now, adjusting salt, pepper, or even adding some extra buffalo sauce if you’re craving more heat. This final cheese step makes the dish feel indulgent and comforting.
Step 5: Rest and Garnish Before Serving
Turn off the heat and let your skillet pasta rest for about 2 minutes. This little pause helps the sauce thicken slightly and melds all the flavors. If you like, sprinkle on some chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh pop of color and brightness. Your One-Skillet Spicy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta Recipe is now ready to wow everyone at the table!
How to Serve One-Skillet Spicy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like chopped fresh parsley or sliced green onions add a lovely touch of color and a burst of fresh flavor that brightens the rich and spicy profile of the dish. A few extra dashes of buffalo sauce or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can also please folks who love a serious kick.
Side Dishes
Since this pasta is a hearty, flavor-packed meal on its own, sides that complement without overpowering it work best. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette, buttery garlic bread, or steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans offer refreshing balance and extra texture contrasts.
Creative Ways to Present
To jazz up the presentation, serve the pasta in a rustic cast-iron skillet right at the table—it keeps things warm and looks inviting. You can also portion it into colorful bowls for a casual, family-style feel. For parties, try stuffing this cheesy buffalo chicken pasta into bell pepper halves or mini casserole dishes for individual servings that impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers from this One-Skillet Spicy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta Recipe should be cooled completely before transferring to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, they’ll keep well for up to 3 days, making for a delicious next-day meal that reheats beautifully.
Freezing
If you want to save some for longer, this pasta freezes surprisingly well. Just pack it into a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible. It stays good for up to 2 months. When thawed, you’ll still enjoy those luscious buffalo and ranch flavors with just a quick reheat.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to help the cheese melt smoothly again. Adding a splash of milk or broth while reheating will restore that creamy texture if it seems a bit thick. Microwave works too, just cover loosely and stir halfway through.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option if you prefer darker meat with a bit more fat and flavor. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces and adjust cooking time to ensure they’re fully cooked and tender.
Is there a vegetarian alternative for this recipe?
Yes, you can swap the chicken for hearty mushrooms, tofu, or even chickpeas for a plant-based twist. Just sauté your chosen protein or veggie similarly and proceed with the sauce and pasta as usual.
How spicy is this dish and can I adjust it?
The buffalo wing sauce gives this pasta a moderate spicy kick balanced by ranch dressing and cream. If you prefer milder heat, use less buffalo sauce or choose a milder version. For more heat, add extra buffalo sauce or red pepper flakes.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Sure! While penne is ideal because it holds the sauce well, fusilli, rotini, or rigatoni would also work perfectly. Just keep in mind the cooking time might vary slightly depending on the pasta shape.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! This dish reheats wonderfully and can be portioned into containers for quick meals throughout the week. Just store the pasta separately from any fresh garnishes, adding those just before serving.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this One-Skillet Spicy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta Recipe enough for anyone who loves bold flavors with minimal cleanup. It’s creamy, spicy, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying — all wrapped up in one easy skillet meal. Give it a try next time dinner calls for something comforting yet exciting, and watch it quickly become a go-to in your recipe rotation.
Print
One-Skillet Spicy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This One-Skillet Spicy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish combining tender chicken, spicy buffalo wing sauce, and rich ranch dressing all cooked together with penne pasta for an easy and satisfying meal. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that delivers bold taste with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Protein and Seasoning
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Sauces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 ¾ cups chicken broth
- ½ cup buffalo wing sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup ranch dressing
Pasta and Cheese
- 2 cups uncooked penne pasta
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Optional Garnishes and Extras
- Chopped parsley or green onion for garnish
- Extra buffalo sauce or crushed red pepper flakes for more heat
Instructions
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and sear until cooked through and golden, about 5–6 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds to release its flavor.
- Add liquids and sauces: Lower the heat to medium and stir in the chicken broth, buffalo wing sauce, heavy cream, and ranch dressing. Use a spatula to scrape the bottom of the skillet, lifting any browned bits for extra flavor.
- Cook the pasta: Add the uncooked penne pasta to the skillet, stirring to coat with the sauce mixture. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer and cover. Cook for 13–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed the flavors.
- Melt in cheese: Stir in the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning or add extra spice with buffalo sauce or red pepper flakes if desired.
- Rest and garnish: Turn off the heat and let the pasta rest for 2 minutes to thicken slightly. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions before serving for a fresh touch.
Notes
- Using freshly minced garlic adds a more vibrant flavor than pre-minced garlic.
- For extra spice, add more buffalo wing sauce or crushed red pepper flakes to taste.
- If you prefer a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Mixing in fresh herbs like parsley or green onions adds brightness and color to the dish.
- This recipe is best served immediately but can be reheated gently on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce.
