Delicious 1-Pot Buffalo Ranch Chicken Penne: Spicy, Creamy Comfort Food in Minutes

Imagine a hearty bowl of creamy pasta bursting with bold buffalo heat and zesty ranch flavors, all effortlessly made in just one pot. This One-Pot Buffalo Ranch Chicken Penne is the ultimate comfort dish for spice enthusiasts and busy home cooks, combining ease of preparation with a mouthwatering, unforgettable taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• One-Pot Convenience: Less cleanup, more time to savor.
• Bold, Creamy Flavor: A perfect blend of spicy buffalo sauce and creamy ranch.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in about 30 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by adults and kids who enjoy a flavorful kick.
• Adaptable: Easily customized to fit your spice preference or dietary needs.

Essential Kitchen Tools:

• Large Non-stick Skillet or Dutch Oven: Perfect for even cooking and ample room to stir comfortably.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Gentle stirring ensures ingredients blend smoothly without sticking.
• Sharp Chef’s Knife: Essential for evenly diced chicken and consistent cooking.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures accuracy, especially for the ranch seasoning and buffalo sauce.

Preparation Tips:

• Uniform Chicken Pieces: Dice chicken evenly for consistent cooking.
• Freshly Shredded Cheese: Opt for freshly grated cheese for superior melt and creamy texture.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Control the heat by tweaking the buffalo sauce amount—start small and build up if you’re spice-sensitive.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce, more or less to taste
• 2 tablespoons dry ranch seasoning mix
• 8 ounces of penne pasta
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish

Substitution Note: Use gluten-free pasta or dairy-free cheeses for dietary preferences.

Step-by-Step Directions:

1. Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook an additional minute.
2. Combine and Simmer: Add chicken broth, buffalo sauce, ranch seasoning, and penne pasta to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
3. Cook Pasta: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
4. Add Cheese: Stir in cream cheese until melted and creamy. Add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until smooth and thoroughly incorporated.
5. Serve: Taste, adjusting seasoning if necessary. Garnish with chopped green onions, parsley, or crumbled blue cheese.

Serving Suggestions:

• Fresh Salad: Serve alongside a crisp garden or Caesar salad to balance the richness.
• Garlic Bread: Pair with crusty garlic bread or rolls to scoop up every delicious bite.
• Veggie Sticks: Carrot and celery sticks with ranch or blue cheese dressing complement the buffalo flavor perfectly.

Customization Ideas:

• Vegetable Boost: Add spinach, broccoli florets, or diced bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• Cheese Variation: Experiment with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.
• Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a different twist.

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Storage and Reheating Tips:

• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of chicken broth or water, or microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently.

Nothing quite like the comforting blend of creamy cheese and spicy buffalo ranch sauce, especially when it comes together effortlessly in one pot. Give this One-Pot Buffalo Ranch Chicken Penne a try, and experience a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. We’d love to hear how you personalized it—share your cooking adventure in the comments!