One-Pot Buffalo Ranch Chicken Penne: Comfort in 30 Minutes

Nothing says comfort like a steaming bowl of One-Pot Buffalo Ranch Chicken Penne, where spicy meets creamy in a delightful pasta embrace. Picture this: tender penne noodles coated in zesty buffalo sauce, mingling with juicy chicken and a sprinkle of ranch seasoning, all bubbling away in one glorious pot. noodle dishes for dinner chicken casserole variations The aroma wafts through your kitchen, promising an explosion of flavor that beckons family and friends to gather around the table. sides for chicken dishes. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta recipe.

This recipe isn’t just about satisfying hunger; it’s about creating memories. I still chuckle recalling the time I made this for a casual weeknight dinner. My kids took one bite and declared it their new favorite dish, which was both thrilling and terrifying because now I had to make it every week. stuffed chicken recipes Whether you’re hosting game day or simply looking for an easy weeknight meal, this One-Pot Buffalo Ranch Chicken Penne is bound to become a staple at your dinner table.

I remember the first time I served this dish; my friends couldn’t get enough and kept asking for seconds!

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Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts depending on your crowd; they cook quickly and soak up flavors.
• Penne Pasta: Opt for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if you want a healthier twist on this classic.
• Buffalo Sauce: Choose your favorite brand, or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Ranch Seasoning Mix: This adds that creamy ranch kick; store-bought works perfectly.
• Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth keeps things flavorful without being overly salty.
• Heavy Cream: A splash of cream makes everything rich and decadent; don’t skimp here!
• Shredded Cheese: Cheddar or mozzarella melts beautifully and adds gooey goodness on top.
• Green Onions: Chop these for garnish; they add color and a mild oniony crunch.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by dicing the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Gather all your ingredients so you won’t be running around when things heat up.

Sauté the Chicken: In a large pot over medium heat, melt some butter or oil and toss in the diced chicken. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Add the Pasta and Liquid Ingredients: Pour in the penne pasta along with chicken broth and buffalo sauce. Stir gently to combine everything while bringing it to a boil.

Simmer Away!: Reduce heat to low once boiling. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed that spicy goodness.

Stir in Cream & Cheese: After removing from heat, add heavy cream and shredded cheese. Stir until everything is melty and creamy; trust me, you’ll want that cheese to stretch!

Garnish & Serve!: Finally, sprinkle with chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy while piping hot; I promise you’ll have everyone asking for more!

And there you have it! A simple yet spectacular One-Pot Buffalo Ranch Chicken Penne that will impress without stress! For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Chicken Broccoli Penne recipe.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve perfection, sear the chicken first for flavor, then cook the penne while stirring in the sauce simultaneously. This method keeps everything moist and flavorful without overcooking.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out penne for another pasta type or add veggies like spinach or bell peppers. You can also adjust the spice level by adding more or less buffalo sauce.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed.

Creating this dish reminds me of my first attempt when I accidentally made it too spicy. My friends still bring it up, yet they keep coming back for more!

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking for even results.

What can I substitute for ranch dressing?

Greek yogurt mixed with herbs can be a great alternative to ranch dressing.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The creamy texture and mild spice make it appealing to kids.

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One-Pot Buffalo Ranch Chicken Penne

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• Author: Teprod
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x

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Description

One-Pot Buffalo Ranch Chicken Penne is a delightful fusion of spicy and creamy flavors, perfect for busy weeknights or gathering friends. This hearty pasta dish features tender penne noodles enveloped in zesty buffalo sauce, juicy chicken, and a sprinkle of ranch seasoning—all cooked together in one pot for easy cleanup. The irresistible aroma will have everyone flocking to the dinner table, making it a guaranteed family favorite.

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Ingredients

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• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (diced)
• 8 oz penne pasta
• 1 cup buffalo sauce
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 green onions (chopped for garnish)

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Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, sauté the diced chicken in butter or oil until golden brown (about 5-7 minutes).
2. Add the penne pasta, chicken broth, and buffalo sauce; stir to combine and bring to a boil.
3. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 12-15 minutes until the pasta is al dente.
4. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream and shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: One-Pot Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 300g)
• Calories: 520
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 890mg
• Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: Feel free to substitute penne with your favorite pasta shape or add veggies like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition. Adjust spice levels by varying the amount of buffalo sauce to suit your taste.