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One-Pot Buffalo Ranch Chicken Penne is my go-to when I want something craveable and filling with hardly any cleanup. The creamy pasta soaks up all that spicy buffalo flavor while the juicy chicken and melted cheddar make every bite deeply satisfying. When I need a crowd-pleasing dinner on a busy weeknight or something comforting for a potluck, this always delivers.
This dish quickly became a favorite in my house the first time I made it for game night and now my friends always ask for the recipe.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: add protein and soak up flavor Choose fresh chicken for best texture
- Penne pasta: classic tube-shaped pasta that catches sauce well Use a quality brand for better bite
- Buffalo sauce: the signature spicy tangy kick Look for a sauce you love since it shines here
- Ranch dressing mix: brings that herby zippy depth Go for a reputable brand for flavor balance
- Low-sodium chicken broth: lets the flavors shine without too much salt Opt for carton or homemade
- Fresh spinach: adds color and a bit of earthiness Bagged baby spinach is convenient and tender
- Shredded cheddar cheese: melts smoothly into everything Pick a sharp cheddar and shred it yourself if you can
- Green onions: a fresh finish and a mild bite Freshly sliced really wakes up the bowl
- Olive oil: starts everything off with rich flavor Choose extra virgin for the best aroma
- Salt and pepper: basic seasoning that helps every other ingredient
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sear the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat Add the chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper Cook for six to seven minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through This step builds a deep savory base
- Add Pasta and Sauces:
- Pour in penne pasta chicken broth and buffalo sauce Stir well to coat the pasta and chicken evenly in sauce Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer letting all the flavors start to mingle
- Sprinkle in Ranch Mix:
- Add the ranch dressing mix to the pot Stir again making sure every piece of pasta and chicken is dusted evenly with the seasoning Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and let it cook for ten to twelve minutes until the pasta is just al dente Stir once halfway through
- Wilt the Spinach and Melt Cheese:
- Once the pasta is tender reduce the heat to low Add in the fresh spinach by handfuls stirring gently until wilted Immediately sprinkle in your shredded cheese Stir slowly until the cheese is fully melted and coats the pasta and chicken in a luscious creamy sauce
- Garnish and Serve:
- Ladle the hot penne mixture into bowls Top with sliced green onions for fresh color and bite Serve immediately while gooey and fragrant
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My favorite part is always the sharp cheddar melting into the buffalo sauce Making it with my family means kids get to choose the pasta shape and sprinkle the cheese which always leads to happy kitchen memories
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days The pasta may absorb more sauce as it sits so add a splash of broth or milk before reheating to bring back creaminess Gently reheat on the stove or in the microwave stirring to keep everything evenly warmed
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap rotisserie chicken or cooked leftover chicken if you are short on time Penne can be replaced with rotini or rigatoni For a lighter touch try a part-skim mozzarella blend instead of cheddar If you want more greens stir in kale or arugula with the spinach
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with a crisp green salad for freshness Garlic bread or cornbread makes a fantastic partner For extra flair offer crumbled blue cheese or extra ranch on the side Kids love a few cherry tomatoes tossed in right before serving
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Cultural Notes
This recipe loves classic American game-day flavors inspired by buffalo wings and ranch often found at gatherings in the US Comfort food traditions meet the convenience of one-pot cooking which is a staple strategy in busy American homes
Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe
- → What type of chicken should I use?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for tender bites, but boneless thighs can be substituted if preferred for extra juiciness.
- → Is fresh spinach necessary, or can I use frozen?
Fresh spinach wilts easily into the dish, but thawed frozen spinach (well-drained) also works for convenience.
- → How spicy is the buffalo sauce in this dish?
The spice level depends on your choice of buffalo sauce. Mild or hot can be used to suit your taste. Adjust quantities as needed.
- → Can I substitute penne with another type of pasta?
Yes, similar short pastas like rigatoni or rotini work well and cook in comparable times. Check for doneness to avoid overcooking.
- → How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in a microwave with a splash of broth if needed.