Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Pasta
Try this Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Pasta recipe.
Try this Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Pasta recipe.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 1/2 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce divided (i used sweet baby ray's buffalo wing sauce)
- 1 tablespoon dried ranch dressing mix
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar
- 16 oz linguine noodles
- Carbohydrate 263.070894869466 g
- Cholesterol 3853.873594988 mg
- Fat 688.637331290371 g
- Fiber 0.540120360288865 g
- Protein 935.457196331054 g
- Saturated Fat 229.995341399763 g
- Serving Size 1 1 recipe (5273g)
- Sodium 7548.38205441298 mg
- Sugar 262.530774509177 g
- Trans Fat 65.9358357473833 g
- Calories 11220 calories
Step-by-step
- Place chicken, broth, ½ cup buffalo sauce, and seasonings in slow cooker.
- Top with cream cheese and shredded cheese.
- Cover and cook on high for 4 hours or low for 8 hours.
- When chicken is done, shred with two forks in the slow cooker and add remaining ½ cup Buffalo sauce to chicken and stir to combine.
- Use a whisk and stir until cheese and cream cheese is all combined and smooth.
- Break noodles in half and add to slow cooker, and stir well.
- Turn heat up to high for 30 to 45 minutes until noodles are fully cooked, stirring a few times during cooking to make sure noodles don't stick together.
- If the dish looks too dry while noodles are cooking, you can add a ½ cup chicken broth to get it to the desired consistency.
- If things look too runny, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon cold water and stir into the chicken and pasta.
- Garnish with parsley or cilantro, and enjoy!
My Go-To Weeknight Crockpot Meal: Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Pasta
As a busy working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Juggling work, carpools, and trying to maintain some semblance of a social life leaves very little time for elaborate meal preparations. That's why I've become a huge fan of slow cooker recipes – they're my secret weapon for delicious, home-cooked meals without the hassle. And my absolute favorite? This Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Pasta. It's incredibly versatile, customizable, and honestly, tastes even better the next day!
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. It's a one-pot wonder, meaning minimal cleanup, which is always a plus in my book. I simply toss everything into the slow cooker in the morning, and by the time dinner rolls around, it's ready to go. No more stressing about what's for dinner, and no more frantic last-minute cooking sessions when I'm already running late. This recipe is my reliable go-to when I'm short on time but still want a satisfying and flavorful meal.
The flavor profile is perfectly balanced – the creamy texture of the cream cheese blends seamlessly with the tangy buffalo sauce and the savory chicken. The pasta cooks perfectly in the slow cooker, soaking up all those delicious flavors. I often add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro for a little extra freshness, but that's entirely optional.
Making it your own: What I love most about this recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta. I've used penne, rotini, and even ziti, and they all work wonderfully. You can also adjust the spice level to your liking. For a milder dish, reduce the amount of buffalo sauce. Conversely, if you prefer a fiery kick, feel free to add more! And don't be afraid to get creative with the cheese! A blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack would be delicious, or you could even try pepper jack for a little extra heat.
Beyond the weeknight convenience, this recipe is also a lifesaver for meal prepping. I often make a double batch on the weekend, and then we have leftovers for lunches throughout the week. It's the perfect make-ahead meal that tastes even better the next day (or two!). I store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator, and it reheats beautifully in the microwave or on the stovetop.
This Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Pasta isn't just a recipe; it's a time-saving solution, a delicious weeknight staple, and a testament to the power of simple cooking. It's a recipe that's helped me navigate the chaos of motherhood while still enjoying delicious, home-cooked meals. So, if you're looking for a reliable, easy, and flavorful recipe to add to your repertoire, give this one a try. You won't be disappointed!
Serving suggestions: I often serve this dish with a side salad or some steamed green beans for a complete and balanced meal. A crusty bread is also a great addition to soak up all that delicious buffalo sauce. It's truly a crowd-pleaser, and I guarantee it'll become a family favorite in no time.
Variations: The possibilities are truly endless. Consider adding other vegetables like diced bell peppers or onions for extra flavor and nutrients. You could also swap the chicken for another protein, such as shredded pork or ground beef. Get creative and make it your own!
This Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Pasta is more than just a recipe; it's a symbol of ease and deliciousness in a busy life. Give it a try and experience the convenience and satisfaction of a truly effortless, yet flavorful meal.
