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Get The Product!Cooking can sometimes feel like a high-stakes game of “Chopped,” but with my One-Pot Buffalo Ranch Chicken Penne, it’s more like a cozy dinner party with friends. Picture this: creamy penne pasta mingling with zesty buffalo sauce and tender chicken, all in one pot. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, teasing taste buds and making everyone wonder what magical dish you’ve conjured up. For more inspiration, check out this more dinner recipes recipe.
This recipe brings back memories of family gatherings where the biggest debate was whether to add extra ranch dressing or go full spicy. It’s perfect for those nights when you want something comforting yet exciting, and trust me, this dish delivers on flavor while keeping the clean-up minimal—because who really wants to scrub pans after a long day?
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This One-Pot Buffalo Ranch Chicken Penne offers an effortless cooking experience that combines rich flavors and textures
- It’s visually appealing with vibrant colors that pop
- Perfect for busy weeknights but fancy enough for entertaining
- Customizable based on your spice tolerance—it’s a crowd-pleaser!
Sharing this dish with friends had them coming back for seconds and thirds, which is always a win in my book.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts are ideal, but adjust based on your guest list or appetite.
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Penne Pasta: Use whole wheat or gluten-free options if desired; both work great in this recipe. For more inspiration, check out this lunch options recipe.
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Buffalo Sauce: Bring the heat! Choose your favorite brand or homemade version for that perfect kick.
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Ranch Dressing Mix: A must-have for that creamy flavor; use any brand you love—or even homemade if you’re feeling adventurous.
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Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium to control the salt content while still providing a flavorful base.
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Fresh Spinach: A handful adds color and nutrients—plus, it feels good to say you’re eating greens.
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Shredded Cheese: Cheddar works wonders here; sprinkle generously to achieve that melty goodness we all crave.
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Green Onions: Slice these up as a fresh garnish; they add crunch and a pop of color at the end.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make One-Pot Buffalo Ranch Chicken Penne
Cooking this delightful dish is as easy as pie—err, pasta. Follow these simple steps to create something truly sensational.
Prep Your Pot: Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil and let it warm up while you prepare your chicken.
Add the Chicken: Season the boneless chicken breasts with salt and pepper before adding them to the pot. Sauté until they turn golden brown and cook through—about 6-7 minutes per side.
Toss in the Pasta and Liquids: Once your chicken is cooked perfectly, add the penne pasta along with chicken broth and buffalo sauce. Stir well to combine everything under that flavorful blanket.
Add Flavor Bombs!: Sprinkle in ranch dressing mix and stir until everything is coated in deliciousness. Bring it all to a gentle simmer; cover and let it cook until the pasta is al dente—around 10-12 minutes should do the trick.
A Final Touch of Goodness: Gently fold in fresh spinach until wilted, then mix in shredded cheese until melted and gooey. Serve hot; watch your guests swoon!
Garnish & Enjoy!: Plate servings topped with chopped green onions for added freshness and crunch. Voilà! Dinner is served!
With these steps, you will have created an easy-to-make dinner that’s bursting with flavor—even if you’re not Julia Child in the kitchen!
So there you have it: One-Pot Buffalo Ranch Chicken Penne—a delicious meal perfect for cozy evenings or impressing friends without breaking a sweat (or too many dishes). Enjoy every cheesy bite!
You Must Know
- This delightful One-Pot Buffalo Ranch Chicken Penne is not just easy to prepare; it’s packed with flavor and perfect for busy weeknights
- The aroma of buffalo sauce mingling with creamy ranch creates a mouthwatering scent that fills your kitchen
- Plus, clean-up is a breeze!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first to lock in flavor, then add pasta and sauces together for optimal cooking and taste.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap chicken for shrimp or add veggies like bell peppers for extra crunch and color.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To elevate your One-Pot Buffalo Ranch Chicken Penne, consider using fresh herbs for added brightness
- Be careful not to overcook the pasta, as it can become mushy
- For a kick, adjust buffalo sauce levels to match your spice tolerance
Cooking this dish reminds me of that one time I fed my friends who thought they were too sophisticated for “one-pot meals.” They gobbled it up and begged for seconds!
FAQ
What can I substitute for chicken in this recipe?
You can use shrimp, tofu, or even vegetables like mushrooms as alternatives.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, preparing it a day in advance enhances the flavors even more.
How do I store leftover One-Pot Buffalo Ranch Chicken Penne?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
One-Pot Buffalo Ranch Chicken Penne
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
One-Pot Buffalo Ranch Chicken Penne is a delightful blend of creamy penne pasta, zesty buffalo sauce, and juicy chicken, all cooked in a single pot. This recipe not only simplifies cooking but also creates a comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, it’s guaranteed to be a hit at your dinner table!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 2 tbsp ranch dressing mix
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then add to the pot. Cook until golden brown, about 6-7 minutes per side.
- Add penne pasta, chicken broth, and buffalo sauce. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Sprinkle in ranch dressing mix and stir well. Cover and cook for about 10-12 minutes until the pasta is al dente.
- Gently fold in fresh spinach until wilted, then mix in shredded cheese until melted.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: One-Pot Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 300g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
