If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances spicy kick, creamy indulgence, and hearty comfort, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Bold & Zesty Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta Skillet Recipe. Imagine tender chicken pieces sizzling with buffalo wing sauce, creamy ranch, melted cheeses, and tender pasta all mixed into one vibrant skillet meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes. It’s a game-changer for busy weeknights or anytime you want something that feels like a celebration in a bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple, wholesome ingredients come together to create a harmony of flavors and textures that elevate this dish beyond your average pasta. Each component is carefully chosen to provide the perfect balance of heat, creaminess, and freshness that makes this recipe truly unforgettable.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Perfect for searing the chicken to a golden, flavorful crust.
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast: Bite-sized pieces cook quickly and soak up all the delicious sauces.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances the overall flavor without overwhelming the dish.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Adds just the right touch of warmth and depth.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Brings a subtle savory note that melds beautifully with the buffalo sauce.
- 2 cups uncooked penne or rotini pasta: Both shapes hold sauce well, providing a satisfying bite.
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the pasta cooking moist and infuses gentle savory flavor.
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce: The star ingredient that delivers zesty heat and vibrancy.
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing: Provides creamy coolness that balances the buffalo’s spicy punch.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey, stretchy goodness.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a sharp, rich flavor complementing the mozzarella.
- 2 green onions (sliced, for garnish): Brightens and gives a fresh crunch.
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): Adds a pop of color and herbal freshness that completes the dish.
How to Make Bold & Zesty Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Chicken to Perfection
Start by heating your olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Add them to the skillet and let them sear for about 4 to 5 minutes until they develop a beautiful golden-brown exterior and are fully cooked through. Once done, set the chicken aside to rest while you prepare the flavorful base.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta in Buffalo-Infused Broth
Using the same skillet (hello, extra flavor from that fond on the bottom), add the uncooked pasta, chicken broth, and buffalo wing sauce. Stir the mixture and bring it to a boil. Lower the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 12 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, making a perfect saucy coating.
Step 3: Mix in the Creamy Ranch and Cheese
Now it’s time for the magic touch. Stir in the ranch dressing along with the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. Watch as the cheeses melt into a luscious, creamy sauce that will hug every piece of pasta in the skillet. This step transforms the dish into the rich, comforting meal you’ve been dreaming about.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Finally, return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir everything together gently but thoroughly. Make sure each bite has that perfect balance of tender chicken, spicy buffalo flavor, creamy ranch, and cheesy goodness. Keep the skillet over low heat until everything is heated through and irresistibly creamy.
How to Serve Bold & Zesty Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten the flavors with a generous sprinkle of sliced green onions and fresh parsley. These garnishes aren’t just pretty – they add a fresh, crisp contrast to the richness of the skillet, making every mouthful beautifully balanced and visually inviting.
Side Dishes
This skillet stands well on its own but pairs exceptionally with cooling sides like a crisp garden salad or crunchy celery sticks. If you want an extra touch of indulgence, a side of garlic bread works wonders, soaking up every last bit of that delicious, bold sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve it straight from the skillet for that warm, family-style feel everyone loves. For a fun twist, scoop portions into individual ramekins and top with a dollop of ranch or even a drizzle of extra buffalo sauce for heat lovers. This Bold & Zesty Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta Skillet Recipe is as versatile as it is tasty, perfect for casual dinners or impressing guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors do develop overnight, making for an even more delicious next-day meal. Leftovers should be good for up to 3 days, so you can enjoy this zesty pasta again without any hassle.
Freezing
This dish can be frozen, but keep in mind that the texture of the pasta might soften slightly upon thawing. Freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Reheating
Reheat the skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if it seems too thick. Stir frequently until heated through. This keeps the pasta tender and the sauce creamy without drying out the chicken or cheese.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne or rotini are ideal because they hold the sauce well, feel free to use your favorite pasta shapes like fusilli, farfalle, or shells. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the pasta is perfectly al dente.
How spicy is this Bold Zesty Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta Skillet Recipe?
The heat level comes from the buffalo wing sauce, which is usually moderately spicy. You can always tweak the spiciness by using more or less buffalo sauce or by choosing a milder or hotter sauce depending on your preference.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be! Simply swap the regular pasta for a gluten-free version and ensure your buffalo sauce and ranch dressing are also gluten-free. This way, you get all the flavor without any gluten worries.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Adding baby spinach, chopped bell peppers, or even sautéed mushrooms can add great texture, nutrients, and color to this already vibrant skillet. Stir vegetables in during the simmering step for the best integration.
What’s the best way to adjust the recipe for extra creamy sauce?
For a creamier finish, add a bit more ranch dressing or an extra handful of shredded cheese at the end. A splash of cream or half-and-half can also be stirred in for richness if you’re feeling indulgent.
Final Thoughts
This Bold & Zesty Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta Skillet Recipe is one of those dishes that brings warmth, excitement, and comfort together in every bite. Whether you’re looking for a quick midweek meal or a crowd-pleaser for the weekend, this recipe delivers every time. Give it a try and watch it become a new favorite that you’ll be reaching for again and again.
Print
Bold & Zesty Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A bold and zesty Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta Skillet that combines tender chicken, spicy buffalo sauce, creamy ranch dressing, and melty cheese all cooked together with pasta for a flavorful and comforting one-pan meal perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Chicken & Seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Pasta & Sauce
- 2 cups uncooked penne or rotini pasta
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
Cheese & Garnish
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Pasta: In the same skillet, add the uncooked pasta, chicken broth, and buffalo sauce. Stir to combine and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Add Ranch and Cheese: Stir in the ranch dressing, shredded mozzarella, and cheddar cheese until everything is well combined and creamy.
- Combine Chicken and Finish: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir everything together until heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the dish with sliced green onions and fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce based on your desired spice level.
- Add cooked bacon or a handful of baby spinach to the skillet for extra flavor and nutrition.
- This dish is best served fresh but can be reheated gently with a splash of broth to restore creaminess.
