Description
This One-Pot Buffalo Ranch Chicken Penne is a creamy, spicy, and savory dish that combines tender chicken, zesty ranch seasoning, and a tangy buffalo sauce, all cooked together with penne pasta. A hassle-free, flavor-packed dinner that’s perfect for weeknights!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 packet ranch seasoning
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add the remaining ingredients: Add penne pasta, diced tomatoes and green chilies (with juices), chicken broth, hot sauce, and ranch seasoning to the pot. Stir well and bring to a boil.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes. If desired, top with shredded cheddar cheese and serve.
Notes
- Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
- Creamy version: Stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream or milk near the end of cooking for a creamier sauce.
- Veggies: Add chopped vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or celery with the chicken for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Protein boost: Swap in rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken for a quicker meal prep.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 75mg