I have always loved finding new ways to enjoy pasta. And one day, while playing around with my Crock Pot recipes, I came across something that changed my dinner game forever: the Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe. This is exactly what I needed for a busy weeknight meal. It’s simple, delicious, and a little spicy, which my family adores.
Ingredients for Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken Pasta
Servings: 6 servings
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 package (16 oz) pasta (penne or rotini works best)
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- Optional: Chopped green onions for garnish
How to Make Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken Pasta
Making this dish is as easy as dumping the ingredients into your Crock Pot. Here’s how I do it step by step.
- Prepare the Chicken: Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of the Crock Pot. The chicken will absorb all those wonderful flavors.
- Add Sauces: Pour the buffalo sauce and chicken broth over the chicken. This combo not only adds flavor but keeps the chicken moist while it cooks.
- Add Vegetables: Sprinkle chopped onions and minced garlic over the top of the sauces. They will add a nice aromatic depth to the dish.
- Cook: Set your Crock Pot on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. As the chicken cooks, it will become tender and soak in all the tasty flavors.
- Shred the Chicken: When the cooking time is complete, shred the chicken right in the Crock Pot using two forks. It should fall apart easily.
- Incorporate Pasta: Add the uncooked pasta directly into the pot. Stir it well to ensure the pasta is surrounded by the sauce.
- Include Ranch Dressing: Pour in the ranch dressing and mix everything together. This is where the magic truly happens.
- Cook Pasta: Cover the pot again and let it cook on high for another 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking.
- Finish with Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, sprinkle shredded cheese on top. Close the lid for about 5 minutes or until the cheese melts.
- Serve: Dish out your creamy buffalo chicken pasta into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Why I Love Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken Pasta
I adore this recipe because it’s one of those “set it and forget it” meals that takes hardly any work. As a busy parent, I often find myself balancing cooking with other responsibilities. This dish allows me to check dinner off my list early in the day, and it fills my home with irresistible aromas.
Tips for Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken Pasta
Over the years, I have learned a few handy tips to make this dish even better. Here’s what I recommend:
- Adjust the Spice: If you or your family are not fans of spicy food, you can always reduce the amount of buffalo sauce. The ranch dressing helps to tone down the heat.
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For an even quicker version, consider using shredded rotisserie chicken. Just mix it with the sauces and skip the initial cooking steps. This will also make your dinner prep nearly instant.
- Add Vegetables: To sneak in some extra nutrition, feel free to toss in some veggies like spinach or bell peppers about an hour before serving. They will add color and nutrients.
- Make it Creamier: If you love creaminess, adding more ranch dressing or a splash of heavy cream can do the trick. It creates a richer sauce.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with different kinds of cheese! A blend of mozzarella and pepper jack can provide a nice kick.
How to Store Leftovers
I often end up with leftovers after making this dish, and that’s perfectly okay! Here’s how I store them:
- Refrigerate: Place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish should last for about 3 to 4 days.
- Reheat: To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stove over low heat. Be sure to stir in a little chicken broth or water to help loosen it up again.
- Freeze for Later: You can also freeze portions for later. Just make sure they are cooled and stored in freezer-safe containers. It should be good for about 2 to 3 months.
Serving Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken Pasta
I love serving this Buffalo Chicken Pasta with a few tasty sides. Here are some ideas:
- Garlic Bread: It’s delicious to dip in any remaining sauce.
- Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette balances out the dish perfectly.
- Veggies: Carrot sticks or celery are classic sides, especially if you enjoy them with extra ranch for dipping.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a rough breakdown of the nutritional information for one serving:
- Calories: Approximately 600-700 kcal
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Protein: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
Keep in mind that the calorie count may vary based on specific products used and portion sizes.
FAQ:
Can I use other types of meat?
Absolutely! While chicken is the star, you can also use turkey or pork. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What if I don’t have a Crock Pot?
No worries! You can make this dish in a large pot or Dutch oven on the stove. Just follow the same steps but keep an eye on the timing as you cook.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free pasta to keep it safe for those with gluten sensitivities. Adjust the sauces to ensure they are also gluten-free.
Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Indeed! You can prep the chicken and sauces the night before. Then, just pop everything in the Crock Pot in the morning. It’s a great way to save time.
Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken Pasta has become a staple in my household. It’s easy to make and packed with flavor that everyone enjoys. Whether you are serving a large family or a gathering of friends, this recipe is sure to impress. Plus, it’s versatile and you can adjust it to fit your taste preferences.