Looking for a bold, flavorful dish perfect for feeding a crowd or adding spice to a weeknight dinner? This Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken Pasta is a game-changer! It combines the zesty heat of buffalo sauce with creamy cheese, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta for an indulgent, crowd-pleasing meal. The best part? It’s a set-it-and-forget-it recipe thanks to your trusty slow cooker!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (Frank’s RedHot or your favorite brand)
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite type)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (optional, for topping)
- Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Lightly grease the inside of your crock pot and place the chicken breasts at the bottom.
- Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Step 2: Add Ingredients to the Crock Pot
- Pour the buffalo wing sauce, ranch seasoning, and cream of chicken soup over the chicken. Stir to combine.
- Add the cream cheese on top.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
- Remove the chicken from the crock pot and shred it with two forks.
- Return it to the crock pot and stir the mixture together until smooth.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
- About 30 minutes before serving, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Cheese
- Stir in the cooked pasta, ensuring it’s well coated in the creamy buffalo chicken sauce.
- Mix in the shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream until smooth and creamy.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
- If desired, sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top and cover for a few minutes until melted.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions:
- With Garlic Bread: A crunchy, buttery complement to the creamy pasta.
- With a Side Salad: A light vinaigrette balances the rich flavors.
- With Roasted Veggies: Serve with broccoli or zucchini for added nutrition.
Tips for Perfect Buffalo Chicken Pasta:
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker version, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken and add it in step 4.
- Adjust the Heat: Add extra buffalo sauce or hot sauce for more spice, or reduce it slightly for a milder version.
- Try Different Pasta: Penne, rotini, elbow macaroni, or farfalle all work well.
- Add Veggies: Stir in cooked broccoli, spinach, or diced bell peppers.
- Make it Lighter: Use low-fat cream cheese and light ranch dressing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
✔ Easy & Convenient: Let the crock pot do most of the work.
✔ Bold Flavors: Spicy buffalo sauce meets creamy cheese.
✔ Customizable: Adjust the heat, cheese, or add-ins to your liking.
✔ Great Leftovers: This pasta reheats well for meal prep.
Storage & Reheating:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
- Reheat: Microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes or heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.
- Freeze: Cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Conclusion:
This Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food with a spicy kick. Perfect for game day, parties, or a cozy dinner, it’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Try it out and watch it become a household favorite!
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