Buffalo Chicken Ranch Pasta
This Buffalo Chicken Ranch Pasta is a spicy, creamy, and cheesy crowd-pleaser ready in under 30 minutes!
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 25 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
- 8 oz pasta of choice penne, rotini, or shells
- 1 lb chicken breast cooked and shredded
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced green onions
- 1 tbsp olive oil used for cooking the chicken or sautéing green onions if preferred
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Buffalo Chicken Ranch Pasta: The Process
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your 8 oz pasta of choice and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta using a colander and set aside. Saving a cup of pasta water can be handy in case you want to loosen the sauce later.
If your chicken breast isn’t already cooked, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then cook each side for 5-7 minutes or until fully cooked and no longer pink inside. Remove from the skillet and shred the chicken using two forks.
In the same skillet or a mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup buffalo sauce and 1/2 cup ranch dressing. Stir until well blended. This combination creates a deliciously creamy and spicy sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta and chicken.
Add the cooked pasta and shredded chicken into the skillet or bowl with the buffalo ranch sauce. Toss everything together gently to ensure the pasta and chicken are evenly coated. If the mixture seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup diced green onions over the pasta mixture. Stir gently until the cheese starts to melt and everything is well combined. The cheese adds a rich, comforting layer while the green onions provide a fresh bite.
Transfer your Buffalo Chicken Ranch Pasta to serving bowls or plates. Garnish with extra green onions or a drizzle of additional buffalo sauce if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or crunchy garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time and simplify preparation.
- Swap regular pasta for whole wheat or chickpea pasta for a healthier boost.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; add a splash of milk when reheating to keep it creamy.
Keyword Buffalo, chicken, Easy, Pasta, Quick, Ranch