Irresistible One-Pot Buffalo Ranch Chicken Penne Recipe

When it comes to comfort food, nothing quite beats the aroma of One-Pot Buffalo Ranch Chicken Penne wafting through your kitchen. The melt-in-your-mouth chicken, pasta coated in a creamy buffalo sauce, and a hint of ranch seasoning create an irresistible dish that makes taste buds dance with joy. You can practically hear your stomach singing when this deliciousness hits the table. For more inspiration, check out this lunch ideas recipe.

Let’s be honest – who doesn’t love a meal that’s not only bursting with flavor but also easy to whip up? Whether you’re hosting game night or just trying to impress your family on a weeknight, this dish is the culinary equivalent of a big warm hug. Get ready to savor every bite while reliving those cozy moments around the dinner table. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.

I remember the first time I made this dish; my friends were convinced I had some secret chef skills. Their wide-eyed reactions at the dinner table were priceless as they devoured every last morsel.

Essential Ingredients

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

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts; adjust based on how many you are feeding.

• Penne Pasta: Opt for whole wheat or regular penne depending on your preference; both work beautifully.

• Buffalo Sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade version for that spicy kick.

• Ranch Dressing Mix: This adds a creamy and flavorful base; don’t skip it.

• Chicken Broth: A low-sodium option keeps flavors balanced without over-salting.

• Cream Cheese: For that luscious creaminess that ties everything together.

• Shredded Cheese: Use cheddar or mozzarella for that gooey goodness on top.

• Green Onions: Chopped for garnish, adding freshness and color.

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

How to Make One-Pot Buffalo Ranch Chicken Penne

Preparing the Chicken: Start by dicing your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.

Cooking the Pasta: Once the chicken is ready, add penne pasta along with chicken broth and buffalo sauce. Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to a simmer. Stir occasionally until the pasta is al dente, about 10-12 minutes.

Making it Creamy: While the pasta cooks, stir in cream cheese until fully melted and incorporated into the dish. This adds incredible richness and flavor; trust me, it’s worth it.

Finishing Touches: Add ranch dressing mix and shredded cheese into the pot, stirring until everything is well combined and melty. This step transforms your dish from good to absolutely amazing.

Garnishing Your Dish: Finally, remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped green onions for a pop of freshness and color. Serve warm and watch faces light up with joy at first bite.

With these steps complete, you’re all set to enjoy this scrumptious One-Pot Buffalo Ranch Chicken Penne. It’s straightforward yet packed with flavor – exactly what we all need in our lives.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve perfect results, start by searing the chicken in your pot. Once golden, add the pasta and broth, letting it cook together with the sauce to infuse flavors.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in veggies like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition. You can also try different cheeses or spices to tailor the heat level to your taste.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, warm on the stovetop over low heat and add a splash of broth for moisture.

Cooking this dish reminds me of a chaotic dinner party where everyone devoured it within minutes. Their compliments left me grinning from ear to ear.

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

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

What if I don’t have penne pasta?

You can substitute any short pasta like rotini or fusilli for this recipe.

How spicy is this One-Pot Buffalo Ranch Chicken Penne?

The spice level depends on your choice of buffalo sauce; choose mild or hot based on preference.