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
Scale
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.
