Print

Slow Cooker Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta

Slow Cooker Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta
Print Recipe

Slow Cooker Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta is a creamy, spicy, and tangy one-pot meal combining tender chicken, buffalo sauce, ranch seasoning, and cheeses with perfectly cooked pasta. This effortless recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, and feeding families with customizable heat levels and simple cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein and Sauce Base

  • 2–3 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
  • 1 cup buffalo sauce (adjust mild or hot to taste)
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 ounce)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 cup chicken broth

Cheeses

  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Pasta

  • 8 ounces uncooked penne or rotini pasta

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken and Sauce: Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Pour buffalo sauce, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and chicken broth over the chicken. Stir gently to coat the chicken evenly.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through, allowing flavors to infuse thoroughly.
  3. Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker, mixing it into the sauce evenly.
  4. Add Cream Cheese and Cheese: Add the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese to the slow cooker. Stir until the cheeses melt completely, creating a creamy, flavorful sauce.
  5. Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta separately according to package directions until al dente. Drain well, then stir the pasta into the slow cooker with the chicken mixture. Mix gently so the pasta is coated evenly.
  6. Final Touches: Stir everything well, then cover and let sit on warm for a few minutes to blend flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Use fresh ranch seasoning or homemade blend for enhanced flavor.
  • Shred chicken thoroughly to ensure each bite is flavorful and evenly coated.
  • Always cook pasta separately to maintain a firm, al dente texture.
  • Add cream cheese towards the end for a smooth, rich sauce.
  • Reheat leftovers gently on low heat with a splash of chicken broth or milk to restore creaminess and prevent splitting.

Nutrition

Keywords: Buffalo chicken, ranch chicken pasta, slow cooker recipe, creamy pasta, spicy chicken, comfort food, one-pot meal, easy dinner

Find it online: https://withnora.com/slow-cooker-buffalo-ranch-chicken-pasta/