The mere thought of One-Pot Buffalo Ranch Chicken Penne sends my taste buds into a frenzy. Imagine tender, juicy chicken swimming in a creamy, spicy sauce that dances with the zesty flavor of ranch dressing. As you twirl your fork around the perfectly cooked penne, the rich aroma fills your kitchen, making it nearly impossible to resist sneaking tastes along the way.

This dish holds a special place in my heart, not just for its mouthwatering flavor but for the laughter-filled dinners it has sparked with family and friends. Picture this: a cozy night in, everyone gathered around the table, forks clinking against bowls as we dig into this creamy delight. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers when you want to impress without breaking a sweat. For more inspiration, check out this more dinner recipes recipe.

I still remember the first time I served this dish at a family gathering—everyone practically licked their plates clean and begged for seconds.

Essential Ingredients

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

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 pieces; adjust for larger gatherings or hungry guests.

• Penne Pasta: Opt for whole wheat or gluten-free versions if desired; it’s all about personal preference.

• Buffalo Sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade; spice it up according to your heat tolerance.

• Ranch Dressing Mix: The secret to that creamy ranch flavor; don’t skip this!

• Chicken Broth: Low-sodium is best; it’ll help control saltiness while adding depth.

• Heavy Cream: For richness; feel free to substitute with half-and-half for lighter creaminess.

• Fresh Green Onions: Chopped for garnish; they add a fresh crunch and pop of color.

• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: A must-have topping that melts beautifully over the pasta.

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

How to Make One-Pot Buffalo Ranch Chicken Penne

Cook the Chicken: Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add olive oil and let it shimmer before tossing in your chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper until golden brown.

Add the Pasta and Liquids: Pour in the chicken broth along with buffalo sauce and ranch dressing mix. Stir well before adding penne pasta, ensuring everything is submerged under the liquid.

Simmer Until Cooked Through: Lower the heat and cover the pot, letting it simmer for about 12-15 minutes until the pasta is al dente and absorbs all those delicious flavors.

Stir in Cream and Cheese: Once cooked through, pour in heavy cream and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted. This creates that irresistible creamy texture we all crave.

Garnish and Serve!: Top with freshly chopped green onions before serving hot. Enjoy every ooey-gooey bite of this flavorful dish!

Strong flavors meet easy prep in this incredible One-Pot Buffalo Ranch Chicken Penne recipe that’s bound to become your new favorite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken until golden brown, then add the pasta and sauce simultaneously to create a deliciously cohesive dish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free options. You can also add veggies like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition. For more inspiration, check out this lunch options recipe.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to keep it creamy.

Cooking this One-Pot Buffalo Ranch Chicken Penne always reminds me of my family gatherings where laughter and spice fill the air.

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Using frozen chicken is possible, but it will require longer cooking time to ensure safety.

What can I substitute for ranch seasoning?

Try using homemade ranch seasoning or Italian seasoning as flavorful alternatives that still work well.

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

The spiciness level can be adjusted based on how much buffalo sauce you choose to add.

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One-Pot Buffalo Ranch Chicken Penne

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• Author: Ann Foster
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

One-Pot Buffalo Ranch Chicken Penne is a flavorful, creamy dish that combines tender chicken with zesty buffalo sauce and ranch dressing. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this one-pot meal allows you to enjoy a delicious dinner without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. The delightful aroma will have your family gathering around the table, ready to dig in!

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Ingredients

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• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs)
• 8 oz penne pasta
• 1 cup buffalo sauce
• 1 oz ranch dressing mix (about 2 tbsp)
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 green onions, chopped

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown.
2. Add chicken broth, buffalo sauce, ranch dressing mix, and penne pasta. Stir to combine and ensure pasta is submerged.
3. Cover and simmer for 12-15 minutes until pasta is al dente.
4. Stir in heavy cream and cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
5. Garnish with green onions before serving hot.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: One-Pot Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 300g)
• Calories: 570
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 950mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 54g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 120mg