Name: Buffalo Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (your choice); 1 lb boneless chicken breasts (cooked and shredded); 1 cup buffalo sauce; 1 cup cream cheese; 1/2 cup ranch dressing; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup green onions (chopped); Salt and pepper to taste

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this buffalo chicken pasta recipe! This dish combines tender chicken, zesty buffalo sauce, and creamy cheese for a hearty meal that’s sure to impress. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, this recipe is as easy to make as it is delicious. Serve it up with a side salad, and you’ve got a complete meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

8 oz pasta (your choice)
1 lb boneless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
1 cup buffalo sauce
1 cup cream cheese
1/2 cup ranch dressing
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, with a cooking time of about 20 minutes.

Nutritional Value

The nutritional value per serving (1/4 of the recipe) is approximately:
– Calories: 550
– Protein: 30g
– Carbohydrates: 45g
– Fat: 30g
This is based on one serving.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Cook the pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, combine shredded chicken and buffalo sauce over medium heat.
Add cream cheese to the skillet and stir until melted and well combined.
Stir in ranch dressing and mix thoroughly.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the pasta mixture.
Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 5 minutes until cheese is melted.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Serve hot and enjoy your buffalo chicken pasta!

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken for quicker prep. For a healthier option, use whole wheat pasta or zucchini noodles. If you prefer a spicier kick, add extra buffalo sauce or chopped jalapeños.

Serving and Pairings

This buffalo chicken pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread. A side of steamed vegetables also complements the rich flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently, until heated through. This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Cooking Mistakes

Overcooking the pasta can make it mushy.
Not shredding the chicken finely enough can lead to uneven flavor distribution.
Using low-quality buffalo sauce can affect the overall taste.
Forgetting to season can make the dish bland.
Cooking on high heat can burn the sauce; keep it at medium.

Helpful Tips

Use a mix of cheeses for added flavor.
Let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
Adjust the buffalo sauce to your preferred spice level.
Top with blue cheese crumbles for extra flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken; just ensure it’s fully cooked and shredded before mixing with the sauce.

What type of pasta works best?

Any pasta works well, but rotini or penne hold the sauce beautifully.

Is this dish spicy?

The spiciness can be adjusted by the amount of buffalo sauce used, making it customizable to your taste.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge; just reheat before serving.

What if I don’t like ranch dressing?

You can substitute ranch with blue cheese dressing or simply omit it for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

This buffalo chicken pasta is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a perfect choice for any meal. With its creamy sauce and spicy kick, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the satisfying taste and the joy of cooking!