If you love bold flavors with a creamy, spicy kick, you are about to fall head over heels for this One-Skillet Spicy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta Recipe! It’s everything you want in a comfort meal — tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious sauce that combines the tang of buffalo wing sauce with the cool creaminess of ranch dressing, all brought together in one pan. This dish is not only a feast for your taste buds but also a time-saver in the kitchen, making weeknight dinners exciting without any fuss. Get ready for a crowd-pleaser that’s cozy, vibrant, and irresistibly satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this One-Skillet Spicy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta Recipe plays a crucial role, keeping the preparation straightforward while packing in layers of flavor, texture, and color. From perfectly seared chicken to the rich and creamy sauce, each component elevates the dish in its own delightful way.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides the perfect base for searing chicken and adds a subtle fruity richness.
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking and tenderness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all flavors.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a fragrant punch and depth to the sauce.
- 2 cups uncooked penne pasta: The ideal shape to capture the creamy sauce in every bite.
- 1 ¾ cups chicken broth: Adds savory moisture and helps cook the pasta perfectly in the skillet.
- ½ cup buffalo wing sauce: Brings the spicy, tangy heat that defines the dish’s bold character.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Enriches the sauce with velvety smoothness for perfect coating.
- ½ cup ranch dressing: Balances the spice with cooling herbs and creaminess.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully into the sauce, adding gooey, stretchy texture.
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a sharp, slightly nutty flavor for extra depth.
- Optional garnishes: Chopped parsley or green onion add freshness and vibrant color to finish.
- Optional heat boosters: Extra buffalo sauce or crushed red pepper flakes if you love a serious kick.
How to Make One-Skillet Spicy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Chicken to Golden Perfection
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your bite-sized chicken pieces, seasoning them generously with salt and pepper. Searing the chicken until it’s cooked through and boasts a beautiful golden crust locks in juices and builds rich flavor that will make every bite unforgettable. Once nearly done, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for just about 30 seconds to awaken those aromatic notes without burning it.
Step 2: Build the Sauce Right in the Skillet
Lower the heat to medium and pour in the chicken broth, buffalo wing sauce, heavy cream, and ranch dressing. Use a spatula to scrape the bottom of the pan — all those flavorful browned bits will dissolve into the sauce, intensifying every spoonful. This step is where the magic begins as the spicy, creamy mixture melds together in harmony, promising a sauce that is both bold and comforting.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta in the Sauce
Add the uncooked penne pasta directly into the skillet and stir to make sure it’s fully coated with the luscious sauce. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer and cover the pan. Let it cook for 13-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure the pasta absorbs all those flavors while cooking to a perfect al dente texture.
Step 4: Melt in the Cheeses for Creamy Goodness
Once the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened slightly, stir in the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. Watch as they melt instantly, creating a creamy, cheesy blanket that clings beautifully to the pasta and chicken. Taste and adjust the seasoning or heat level here — a little extra buffalo sauce or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can make it just right for your palate.
Step 5: Rest and Garnish Before Serving
Turn off the heat and let the skillet rest for 2 minutes to let the sauce fully settle and thicken. This short pause also gives the flavors a chance to mingle even more. Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or green onions over the top for a pop of color and freshness that brightens the whole dish. Now it’s ready to enjoy!
How to Serve One-Skillet Spicy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkling of chopped parsley or thinly sliced green onions instantly lifts the dish by creating a lovely contrast in color and a fresh finish. These simple garnishes not only make your presentation pop but also add a subtle herbal note that complements the rich and spicy sauce perfectly.
Side Dishes
Since this pasta is rich and flavorful, pairing it with light, crisp sides works best. A crunchy green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus provides a refreshing balance. Garlic bread or soft dinner rolls are always great options for mopping up any extra sauce, turning every last bite into a delight.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this One-Skillet Spicy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta Recipe in hollowed-out bell peppers for a colorful, handheld option at parties or game day gatherings. Or layer it into a casserole dish and bake briefly until bubbly and golden on top for a cozy baked pasta version that’s irresistibly comforting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool it completely before sealing to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess. The sauce will thicken as it chills, which makes reheating important for restoring that creamy texture.
Freezing
This dish can be frozen but since it contains cream and cheese, the texture may change slightly when thawed. For best results, freeze it in a tightly sealed container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk if the sauce is too thick. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure the pasta heats evenly. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between so the creamy sauce stays smooth and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely! While penne is ideal for holding the sauce, other shapes like rigatoni, rotini, or fusilli work wonderfully, too. Just keep cooking times in mind as different shapes may require slight adjustments.
How spicy is this dish?
This recipe has a medium level of heat from the buffalo sauce but can be dialed up or down easily by adding extra buffalo sauce or crushed red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will add a bit more juiciness and flavor. Just make sure to cut them into uniform pieces and cook until they’re fully done through.
Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?
You can swap the heavy cream and cheeses for dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream and vegan cheese shreds, and use a dairy-free ranch dressing to keep it creamy without the dairy.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can chop and measure ingredients beforehand, but it’s best to cook the dish fresh to preserve the creamy texture and the vibrant flavors of the sauce.
Final Thoughts
This One-Skillet Spicy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta Recipe is a total game changer for anyone craving that perfect mix of spicy, creamy, and cheesy all in one easy skillet. Trust me, once you try it, it will become one of your favorite go-to meals for busy nights or casual get-togethers. So grab your skillet and dive into this delicious, fuss-free comfort food — your taste buds will thank you!
Print
One-Skillet Spicy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This One-Skillet Spicy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish combining tender chicken bites with zesty buffalo wing sauce, ranch dressing, and melted cheeses. Cooked entirely in one pan, it’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Liquid Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups chicken broth
- ½ cup buffalo wing sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup ranch dressing
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Pasta and Cheese
- 2 cups uncooked penne pasta
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Seasonings and Garnishes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: chopped parsley or green onion for garnish
- Optional: extra buffalo sauce or crushed red pepper flakes for more heat
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Sear the chicken, stirring occasionally, until cooked through and golden brown, about 5 to 6 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add liquids and deglaze: Reduce the heat to medium. Pour in the chicken broth, buffalo wing sauce, heavy cream, and ranch dressing. Scrape the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon to release any browned bits, incorporating all the flavors into the sauce.
- Cook the pasta: Stir in the uncooked penne pasta, ensuring it is evenly coated with the sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the skillet and cook for 13 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened.
- Add cheese: Stir in the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese, mixing until the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning or spice level as desired.
- Finish and serve: Turn off the heat and let the pasta rest in the skillet for 2 minutes to thicken slightly. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired. Serve immediately, optionally adding extra buffalo sauce or crushed red pepper flakes for additional heat.
Notes
- Use a large, heavy skillet to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
- Adjust the amount of buffalo wing sauce to control the spiciness.
- For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.
