Introduction
Looking for a delicious, comforting dish with a spicy twist? Try this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake, where tender shredded chicken meets zesty buffalo sauce, creamy cheese, and pasta, all baked to perfection. This hearty dish combines bold flavors with a creamy texture, making it the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re preparing dinner for the family or need a dish for a gathering, this buffalo chicken pasta bake will be a crowd-pleaser. Let’s get started on creating this irresistible, cheesy, and spicy pasta bake!
Ingredients
To make this flavorful and easy buffalo chicken pasta bake, gather the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 2 medium-sized |
| Penne pasta | 12 oz |
| Buffalo sauce | ½ cup |
| Cream cheese | 8 oz |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1 cup |
| Shredded mozzarella cheese | 1 cup |
| Ranch dressing | ½ cup |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Onion powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Freshly ground black pepper | To taste |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Chopped green onions (for garnish) | 2 tablespoons |
These ingredients will come together to create a creamy, flavorful, and spicy dish that is perfect for any occasion.
Step-by-Step Instructions
RELATED: Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo Recipe
- Start by cooking the chicken breasts. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes on each side until it is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove from the skillet and shred the chicken using two forks.
- While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the buffalo sauce, cream cheese, ranch dressing, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cream cheese is fully incorporated, and the mixture is smooth.
- Add the shredded chicken and cooked pasta to the bowl with the buffalo sauce mixture. Stir well until everything is evenly coated.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the buffalo chicken pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese.
- Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot. Enjoy your spicy and cheesy buffalo chicken pasta bake!
Tips for the Perfect Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake
For the best results, make sure to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts to keep the dish tender and juicy. If you’re short on time, you can use rotisserie chicken as a shortcut.
Feel free to adjust the amount of buffalo sauce depending on your desired spice level. For a milder dish, use less sauce, or for more heat, increase the amount.
If you want to add an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle some blue cheese crumbles on top before baking. The creamy blue cheese pairs wonderfully with the tangy buffalo sauce.
Variations and Additions
Looking to customize your buffalo chicken pasta bake? There are plenty of ways to make this dish your own. Add chopped celery for crunch or spinach for a boost of nutrients. If you’re a fan of other cheeses, try substituting the mozzarella with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for extra flavor and heat.
For a healthier version, swap regular pasta for whole wheat pasta or gluten-free pasta. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or use a light ranch dressing to cut down on calories while still keeping the creamy texture.
Nutritional Benefits
This dish is a great source of protein from the chicken, which helps with muscle repair and overall health. The combination of cheese and ranch dressing offers a creamy, indulgent texture that makes this pasta bake a satisfying meal. By incorporating whole wheat pasta or adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, you can boost the nutritional value of the dish.
RELATED: Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
Conclusion
The Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake is a perfect blend of spicy, creamy, and cheesy goodness that will satisfy all your cravings. It’s an easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or a weekend gathering. With simple ingredients and a quick baking time, you’ll have a comforting meal that everyone will love.
So, why not spice up your pasta night with this irresistible buffalo chicken pasta bake? Gather your ingredients and get baking today for a dish that’s as flavorful as it is satisfying. Enjoy every cheesy, spicy bite!