Contents
Introduction
Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken Pasta is a flavorful and comforting dish that brings together the bold taste of buffalo chicken with the satisfying texture of pasta. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a gathering, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to please both buffalo chicken lovers and pasta enthusiasts.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– Chicken breasts – 1 pound
– Buffalo sauce – 1 cup
– Cream cheese – 8 ounces
– Ranch seasoning mix – 1 packet
– Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon
– Penne pasta – 8 ounces
– Chicken broth – 1 cup
– Shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella) – 1 cup
– Green onions (for garnish) – optional
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 4 hours on low
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6 people
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot.
Step 2: Add Frank’s RedHot Sauce
Pour the Frank’s RedHot Sauce over the chicken, ensuring it is evenly coated.
Step 3: Add Cream Cheese
Cut the cream cheese into cubes and place it on top of the chicken and sauce.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 7 hours or on high for 4 hours.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks inside the crockpot, mixing it well with the sauce.
Step 6: Add Uncooked Pasta
Add the uncooked pasta directly into the crockpot, stirring it into the sauce and chicken mixture.
Step 7: Add Chicken Broth
Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the pasta is covered with liquid.
Step 8: Cook the Pasta
Cover the crockpot again and cook on low for an additional 30 minutes or until the pasta is cooked al dente.
Step 9: Stir and Serve
Once the pasta is cooked, stir everything together, then serve hot.
Notes
Note 1: Pasta Choices
You can use any type of pasta, but shorter shapes like penne or rotini work best for this recipe.
Note 2: Sauce Adjustments
Adjust the amount of Frank’s RedHot Sauce to your preferred level of spiciness.
Note 3: Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Note 4: Reheating
For best results, reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a bit of chicken broth if needed.
Cook techniques
Using a Crock Pot
The crock pot is an excellent tool for slow cooking, allowing flavors to meld together over time. You can set it and forget it, making it a convenient option for busy days.
Shredding Chicken
To achieve perfectly shredded chicken, cook it until tender and then use two forks to pull the meat apart. This technique ensures even distribution of flavors throughout the dish.
Combining Ingredients
When combining ingredients in the crock pot, layer them strategically. Start with the base ingredients at the bottom and sprinkle spices and sauces on top. This method enhances flavor infusion.
Cooking Pasta
To incorporate pasta in dishes cooked in a crock pot, add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it may require a longer cooking time to ensure it is fully cooked and tender.
What type of pasta works best?
Any short pasta shape, such as penne or rotini, works well for this dish, as they hold the sauce nicely.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Absolutely! You can adjust the level of heat by using more buffalo sauce or adding chopped jalapeños.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.
Conclusion
The Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken Pasta is a deliciously creamy dish that perfectly combines the flavors of buffalo chicken with pasta. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it an ideal option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. This dish satisfies cravings for comfort food while offering a spicy kick that can be adjusted to taste. Enjoying this meal will surely bring smiles to the table and leave you looking forward to leftovers.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Buffalo Chicken Tacos
Add some crunch to your meal by stuffing buffalo chicken into soft or hard taco shells, topped with lettuce, cheese, and a drizzle of ranch dressing.
Buffalo Chicken Salad
Transform your buffalo chicken into a fresh salad by serving it over mixed greens with tomatoes, cucumbers, and your favorite salad dressing.
Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Dip
Create a crowd-pleasing dip by combining shredded buffalo chicken with cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and hot sauce, then baking until bubbly.
Buffalo Chicken Pizza
Spread buffalo chicken over pizza dough, top with mozzarella cheese, and bake for a zesty twist on your usual pizza night.
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Stuff bell peppers with a mixture of buffalo chicken, rice, and cheese, then bake until the peppers are tender and flavorful.
Buffalo Chicken Quesadillas
Create a quick meal by filling tortillas with buffalo chicken and cheese, then grilling until crispy for a tasty handheld option.
