Are you ready to spice up your dinner routine? This buffalo chicken pasta recipe is a perfect blend of creamy and spicy flavors that will delight your taste buds and satisfy your hunger. It’s an easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken with a zesty buffalo sauce, served over your favorite pasta. Ideal for a weeknight meal or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress! Let’s dive into the ingredients and preparation steps to create this scrumptious meal.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the dish) contains approximately:
– Calories: 550
– Protein: 34g
– Carbohydrates: 50g
– Fat: 25g
– Fiber: 2g
This nutritional information is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the buffalo sauce over medium heat.
- Add the cooked shredded chicken to the skillet and stir until well coated.
- Reduce heat and add the cream cheese, stirring until melted and combined.
- Mix in the ranch dressing and shredded cheddar cheese until smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes and green onions.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Serve hot, garnished with parsley.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute grilled or baked chicken for the shredded chicken, or use tofu for a vegetarian option. Additionally, you can use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Serving and Pairings
Buffalo chicken pasta pairs wonderfully with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed veggies. You can also serve it with a glass of chilled white wine for a delightful meal experience.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave until warmed through. This dish can be frozen, but the texture may slightly change upon reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta can make it mushy.
- Using too much buffalo sauce can overpower the dish.
- Not allowing the cream cheese to soften can lead to lumps.
- Forgetting to season can result in bland flavors.
- Skipping the garnish can make the dish look less appealing.
Helpful Tips
- Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of buffalo sauce.
- Use leftover chicken for a quicker prep time.
- Try adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
- Experiment with different types of cheese for a unique taste.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the buffalo chicken mixture and pasta separately ahead of time. Combine them just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well and can be portioned for easy meal prep throughout the week.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add more buffalo sauce or include sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.
Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
Yes, you can combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours for a hands-off approach.
Conclusion
This buffalo chicken pasta recipe is a flavor-packed dish that combines all the elements of comfort food with a spicy twist. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. Enjoy every bite of this creamy, zesty delight!
Buffalo Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta penne or rotini
- 1 lb chicken breast cooked and shredded
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 cup cream cheese softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup green onions sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the buffalo sauce over medium heat.
- Add the cooked shredded chicken to the skillet and stir until well coated.
- Reduce heat and add the cream cheese, stirring until melted and combined.
- Mix in the ranch dressing and shredded cheddar cheese until smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes and green onions.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Serve hot, garnished with parsley.
