Buffalo Chicken Pasta: The Ultimate Crock Pot Recipe
Introduction to Buffalo Chicken Pasta
If you’re looking for a comforting meal that packs a punch of flavor, look no further than Buffalo Chicken Pasta! This easy recipe, made in the Crock Pot, combines tender chicken, zesty Buffalo sauce, and creamy cheese for a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe allows you to set it and forget it, making it a convenient choice for any home cook.
A Personal Story Behind My Buffalo Chicken Pasta Journey
I remember the first time I made Buffalo Chicken Pasta for my family. It was a chilly evening, and I wanted something hearty yet simple. As the aroma filled the kitchen, my family gathered around the table, excited to dig in. The combination of flavors was a hit, and from that day on, this dish became a regular feature in our home. It brings warmth and joy, making it a cherished recipe that I love to share.
What Makes This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe Special?
This Buffalo Chicken Pasta stands out not just for its deliciousness but also for its ease of preparation. Using a Crock Pot allows the chicken to become incredibly tender, soaking in all the flavors from the Buffalo sauce and ranch dressing. The cream cheese adds a rich creaminess that balances the heat perfectly. Plus, it’s adaptable – you can adjust the spice level to suit your taste and even add your favorite vegetables for extra nutrition!
The Full Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 ½ cups (360ml) chicken broth
- ¾ cup (180ml) Buffalo sauce
- 1 cup (240ml) ranch dressing
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, cubed
- 10 oz (280g) penne noodles, uncooked
- 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese blend
- ½ cup + 2 tablespoons (80g) chopped green onions
Instructions
- Prepare the Crock Pot: Start by spraying the inside of your Crock Pot with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Add Chicken: Place the chicken breasts directly into the Crock Pot.
- Add Liquids: Pour the chicken broth, Buffalo sauce, and ranch dressing over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated.
- Add Cream Cheese: Drop the cubed cream cheese into the pot, spreading it evenly.
- Cook Chicken: Cover the Crock Pot and cook on HIGH for 2 hours. (Tip: Check the chicken occasionally to ensure it’s cooking evenly.)
- Remove Chicken: After 2 hours, carefully use tongs to remove the chicken and place it on a cutting board.
- Add Noodles: Stir in the uncooked penne noodles into the pot, mixing them with the sauce.
- Continue Cooking: Cover the Crock Pot again and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
- Chop Chicken: While the pasta cooks, chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Combine Ingredients: After 30 minutes, stir the pasta, then add the chopped chicken and shredded cheese. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Final Cooking: Cover and cook for another 10 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and everything to heat through.
- Add Green Onions: Stir in ½ cup of chopped green onions, then sprinkle the remaining green onions on top for garnish.
- Serve: Dish out your delicious Buffalo Chicken Pasta and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Buffalo Chicken Pasta
This Buffalo Chicken Pasta is perfect on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For those who love a bit of crunch, consider adding some celery sticks or carrot sticks on the side. You can also customize this dish by adding cooked vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli. If you prefer it less spicy, reduce the amount of Buffalo sauce, or use a milder variety.
Frequently Asked Questions About Buffalo Chicken Pasta
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just add an extra hour to the cooking time on HIGH.
What if I don’t have penne noodles?
You can substitute with any pasta shape you have on hand, like fusilli or rotini.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge. Just cook them the next day as per the instructions.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This dish keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, making it perfect for meal prep.
Buffalo Chicken Pasta
Equipment
- Crock Pot Slow cooker for easy meal prep.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1.5 cups chicken broth
- 0.75 cups Buffalo sauce
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 8 oz cream cheese cubed
- 10 oz penne noodles uncooked
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese blend
- 0.5 cup chopped green onions
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
Instructions
- Prepare the Crock Pot by spraying it with cooking spray.
- Add the chicken breasts directly into the Crock Pot.
- Pour the chicken broth, Buffalo sauce, and ranch dressing over the chicken, ensuring it's well coated.
- Drop the cubed cream cheese into the pot, spreading it evenly.
- Cover and cook on HIGH for 2 hours.
- After 2 hours, carefully remove the chicken and place it on a cutting board.
- Stir in the uncooked penne noodles into the pot, mixing them with the sauce.
- Cover again and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
- While the pasta cooks, chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- After 30 minutes, stir the pasta, then add the chopped chicken and shredded cheese, mixing everything together until well combined.
- Cover and cook for another 10 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and heat through.
- Stir in ½ cup of chopped green onions, then sprinkle the remaining green onions on top for garnish.
- Dish out your delicious Buffalo Chicken Pasta and enjoy!