There’s something magical about the aroma of One-Pot Buffalo Ranch Chicken Penne wafting through your kitchen. The sizzling chicken mingles with zesty buffalo sauce and the comforting scent of creamy ranch dressing, making it impossible to resist. perfect drink pairing Imagine twirling that perfectly cooked penne around your fork while the spicy, tangy sauce dances on your taste buds, creating a symphony of flavors that feels like a warm hug on a cold day. comforting apple crisp cheesecake. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe recipe.
This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. Picture this: you’ve had a long day, and the last thing you want is to wash a mountain of pots and pans. Enter the One-Pot Buffalo Ranch Chicken Penne, ready to save the day. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings with friends. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! For more inspiration, check out this One Pot Chicken Parmesan recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This One-Pot Buffalo Ranch Chicken Penne is not only easy to prepare but also bursts with flavor
- You can whip it up in under 30 minutes for those hectic evenings
- Its creamy texture and vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any dinner table
- Plus, it’s versatile enough for family dinners or casual get-togethers with friends
I once made this dish for my friends during game night, and they devoured every last bite!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about three to four breasts for a hearty meal that satisfies everyone.
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Penne Pasta: This tubular pasta holds onto the sauce perfectly; choose whole wheat for a healthier option. zesty dessert option.
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Buffalo Sauce: Go for your favorite brand or homemade; just ensure it’s spicy enough to kick things up!
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Ranch Dressing: Homemade or store-bought works wonders; it adds creaminess to balance out the heat.
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Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness; it enhances flavor without overpowering.
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Shredded Cheese: Cheddar or mozzarella melts beautifully into the dish; sprinkle generously for gooey goodness.
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Fresh Green Onions: These add color and crunch; chop them finely for garnish right before serving.
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Olive Oil: A drizzle helps in browning the chicken and adds richness to the overall flavor.
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Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning; don’t forget to season at each step for maximum flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Sautéing the Chicken: Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Cooking the Pasta: Once the chicken is cooked, add penne pasta to the pot along with chicken broth and buffalo sauce. Stir everything together until well combined.
Add Creaminess: Pour in ranch dressing after bringing everything to a boil. Lower the heat and let it simmer until the pasta absorbs some of that rich sauce.
Melt in Cheese: Toss shredded cheese into the pot while stirring gently until melted and creamy. The cheese adds an irresistible pull that makes each bite delightful.
Garnish & Serve : Finally, remove from heat and sprinkle chopped green onions on top. Serve hot and watch everyone dive in!
This One-Pot Buffalo Ranch Chicken Penne isn’t just another dinner recipe; it’s a ticket to flavor town! You’ll love how simple yet delicious this dish is—perfectly balanced between spicy buffalo sauce and cool ranch dressing, all while being contained in one glorious pot! So grab your apron and let’s get cooking! delicious cheesy pasta dish.
You Must Know
- This One-Pot Buffalo Ranch Chicken Penne dish combines zesty flavors with minimal cleanup, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The delightful aroma wafts through the kitchen, enticing everyone to gather around the table
- Quick and easy, it’s a crowd-pleaser the whole family will love!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken to lock in those juicy flavors. While it cooks, prepare the pasta and sauce simultaneously to save time and enhance flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the buffalo sauce for a milder option if you’re not a heat lover. You can also add veggies like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to keep that creamy texture intact.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve maximum flavor, marinate your chicken overnight in buffalo sauce
- Use fresh herbs like parsley to brighten up the dish
- If you want a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer before adding pasta
Memories of cooking this dish with friends always bring a smile. Their delighted faces when they took that first bite were priceless!
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, just ensure it is fully thawed before cooking for even results.
What can I substitute for penne pasta?
You can easily swap penne for fusilli or any pasta shape you prefer.
How spicy is this One-Pot Buffalo Ranch Chicken Penne?
The spice level depends on your choice of buffalo sauce; choose mild or hot according to preference.
One-Pot Buffalo Ranch Chicken Penne
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
One-Pot Buffalo Ranch Chicken Penne is a delightful fusion of zesty buffalo flavor and creamy ranch dressing, all cooked in a single pot for minimal cleanup. This comforting dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. With tender chicken, al dente penne pasta, and gooey cheese, each bite offers a delicious explosion of flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced chicken seasoned with salt and pepper; cook until golden brown and cooked through.
- Stir in penne pasta, chicken broth, and buffalo sauce; mix well.
- Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer until pasta is tender.
- Stir in ranch dressing and allow it to simmer briefly until heated through.
- Add shredded cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
- Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: One-Pot Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 920mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: Feel free to adjust the spice level by choosing mild or hot buffalo sauce. Add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days.
