Description

One-Skillet Spicy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta is a bold and creamy comfort food favorite. This dish combines tender seared chicken, penne pasta, and a spicy buffalo ranch cream sauce, all made in a single pan for easy cleanup and big flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

2 tablespoons olive oil

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-size pieces)

Salt and pepper to taste

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups uncooked penne pasta

1 ¾ cups chicken broth

½ cup buffalo wing sauce

1 cup heavy cream

½ cup ranch dressing

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

Optional: chopped parsley or green onion for garnish

Optional: extra buffalo sauce or crushed red pepper flakes for more heat

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and sear until cooked through and golden (about 5–6 minutes). Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
Lower heat to medium and stir in chicken broth, buffalo sauce, heavy cream, and ranch dressing. Scrape the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits.
Add penne pasta and stir to coat. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer and cover. Cook for 13–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente.
Stir in mozzarella and cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning or spice if needed.
Turn off heat and let rest 2 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired.