Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Creamy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food with a spicy edge. It brings together tender chicken, a creamy sauce, and the perfect amount of heat, all coated around a hearty serving of pasta. The addition of Frank’s RedHot® Buffalo Ranch Seasoning Blend gives this dish a bold, flavorful kick that’s balanced out by the smooth cream cheese and heavy cream. It’s a one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy nights, but still packed with the rich, bold flavors you crave.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot® Buffalo Ranch Seasoning Blend
- 1 1/2 cups chicken stock
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 8 ounces penne pasta, uncooked
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 package (4 ounces) cream cheese
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
Directions
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 2 to 3 minutes until the onions are tender.
- Stir in the Buffalo Ranch Seasoning Blend, chicken stock, and water. Bring to a boil.
- Add the uncooked pasta to the skillet, cover, and cook on medium heat for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
- Stir in the shredded chicken, heavy cream, and cream cheese. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and the cream cheese has melted.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with additional Frank’s RedHot® Sauce if desired.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 6
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
Variations
- For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for a plant-based protein, such as tofu or tempeh.
- Add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Use a different type of pasta, such as fusilli, rigatoni, or spaghetti, to change up the texture.
Storage/Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or chicken stock to loosen up the sauce if it thickens too much.
FAQs
Can I use another brand of buffalo ranch seasoning?
Yes, you can use any buffalo ranch seasoning blend, though Frank’s RedHot® adds a distinctive flavor.
Can I make this dish without cream cheese?
Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese with additional heavy cream or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream.
Can I freeze Creamy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta?
Yes, this dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container and reheat thoroughly before serving.
How spicy is this recipe?
The recipe has a mild to moderate spice level, thanks to the Buffalo Ranch Seasoning. If you prefer less heat, you can adjust the amount of seasoning or omit it entirely.
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooked chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and will save you time without compromising flavor.
What can I serve this pasta with?
This dish is great on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes, half-and-half can be used as a lighter alternative, though the sauce may not be as rich and creamy.
How do I make this dish less creamy?
If you prefer a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of cream and cream cheese or substitute with lower-fat alternatives.
Can I add more heat to this recipe?
For extra spice, add more Frank’s RedHot® Sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Conclusion
Creamy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta is a bold, flavorful dish that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. With its creamy base, spicy kick, and tender chicken, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe offers comfort with a fiery twist that everyone will love.
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Creamy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Indulge in this creamy and zesty Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta, featuring tender shredded chicken and a spicy kick from Frank’s RedHot® Buffalo Ranch Seasoning Blend. Perfect for busy weeknights or a special occasion, this one-pan dish combines comfort with heat, offering rich flavors and a smooth, creamy sauce. With just 30 minutes to prepare, it’s a must-try recipe for pasta lovers craving a bold, flavorful meal.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot® Buffalo Ranch Seasoning Blend
- 1 1/2 cups chicken stock
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 8 ounces penne pasta, uncooked
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 package (4 ounces) cream cheese
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until tender.
- Stir in Buffalo Ranch Seasoning Blend, chicken stock, and water. Bring to a boil.
- Add uncooked pasta, cover, and cook for 15 to 20 minutes until pasta is tender.
- Stir in shredded chicken, heavy cream, and cream cheese. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens and the cream cheese melts.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with additional Frank’s RedHot® Sauce if desired.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh.
- Add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli for extra nutrition.
- Adjust spice levels by varying the Buffalo Ranch seasoning.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Pasta, Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
