Creamy Buffalo Chicken Recipe

If you are in the mood for a dish that perfectly marries spicy, creamy, and comforting elements, look no further than Creamy Buffalo Chicken. This delightful recipe turns classic buffalo chicken flavors into a rich, cheesy pasta shell creation that’s guaranteed to steal the show at dinner. With tender shredded chicken enveloped in a luscious blend of buffalo sauce, cream cheese, and melted mozzarella, each bite offers a glorious balance of heat and creaminess that feels like a warm hug on your plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This simple recipe calls for just a handful of ingredients, each playing a key role in building the vibrant flavor and luscious texture of Creamy Buffalo Chicken. The combination of cheeses adds richness while the buffalo sauce brings that essential kick, and don’t forget the green onions for a fresh, crisp finish.

• 12 jumbo pasta shells: These large pasta shells are perfect for stuffing with the creamy filling, providing a satisfying bite every time.
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Shredded chicken ensures the filling is meaty and tender, soaking up all the delicious sauces.
• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce: The star of the dish, this adds the signature spicy, tangy flavor that defines Creamy Buffalo Chicken.
• 1 cup ricotta cheese: Ricotta brings a light, creamy texture to the filling, balancing the heat with smoothness.
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: Mozzarella melts into gooey perfection, creating that irresistible cheesy pull.
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened: This adds velvety richness that ties all the ingredients together into a luscious mixture.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Garlic powder deepens the flavor, infusing the filling with a subtle savory note.
• 1/4 cup ranch dressing: Ranch adds a cool, creamy tang that beautifully complements the buffalo heat.
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped: Chopped green onions inject a fresh, peppery crunch to lighten up the dish.

How to Make Creamy Buffalo Chicken

Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Pasta Shells

Start by boiling your jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Be sure to handle them gently so they maintain their shape for stuffing. Once cooked, drain and rinse with cold water to prevent them from sticking together, then set aside to cool.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Buffalo Chicken Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, softened cream cheese, ricotta, shredded mozzarella, ranch dressing, and garlic powder. Stir everything together until you have a smooth, creamy filling where all the flavors meld beautifully. This mixture is what gives the dish its namesake creamy buffalo chicken personality.

Step 3: Stuff the Pasta Shells

Carefully fill each pasta shell with a generous spoonful of the creamy buffalo chicken mixture. This part is fun and rewarding because you see the dish come together visually. Place the stuffed shells in a lightly greased baking dish, snug but not crowded, to allow room for melting cheese and bubbling flavors.

Step 4: Bake Until Bubbly and Golden

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for about 25 minutes, then remove the foil for an additional 10 minutes to let the tops get slightly golden and bubbly. This step melts all the cheeses together and lets the flavors intensify, delivering that irresistible creamy buffalo chicken experience.

How to Serve Creamy Buffalo Chicken

Garnishes

Finishing touches can elevate the dish even further. Sprinkle extra chopped green onions or fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. A drizzle of ranch or a few dashes of buffalo sauce can add visual appeal and an extra kick of flavor to satisfy any spice lover.

Side Dishes

Creamy Buffalo Chicken pairs wonderfully with simple sides that balance its richness. Think crisp celery sticks or a light garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette. Roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus also complement the creamy, spicy flavors without overwhelming the palate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the stuffed shells on a large platter surrounded by fresh veggies or tortilla chips to scoop up every last bit of the creamy buffalo chicken filling. You can also try layering the mixture in a casserole with extra cheese on top for a decadent baked dip version perfect for game day.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Buffalo Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It retains its creamy texture and bold flavors nicely, making it perfect for quick meals later in the week.

Freezing

You can freeze the stuffed shells either before or after baking. Place them in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftover or thawed Creamy Buffalo Chicken in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, usually about 15-20 minutes. To keep the shells moist, cover with foil while warming. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience, though the oven method preserves the texture better.

FAQs

Can I use shredded rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using shredded rotisserie chicken is a quick and delicious shortcut that works perfectly with Creamy Buffalo Chicken, adding plenty of flavor and saving prep time.

How spicy is the buffalo sauce in this dish?

The heat level depends on the buffalo sauce brand you choose. For a milder experience, opt for a milder sauce. If you love spicy food, go for the hotter variety to really make the flavors pop.

Can I substitute the ranch dressing with something else?

Yes, if you prefer, you can substitute ranch dressing with blue cheese dressing for that classic buffalo wing pairing or simply use sour cream for a tangy creaminess.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The recipe as written is not gluten-free due to the pasta shells. However, you can use gluten-free jumbo pasta shells as a substitute to make it gluten-friendly without sacrificing taste.

Can I make this dish vegan or vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, you could omit the chicken and substitute with a hearty vegetable like roasted cauliflower or mushrooms. For a vegan version, use dairy-free cheeses and a plant-based ranch alternative, but keep in mind the buffalo sauce must be vegan-friendly as well.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Buffalo Chicken truly hits all the right notes when you’re craving a dish that’s comforting with a spicy kick and loads of cheesy goodness. Whether for a family dinner or entertaining friends, it’s a winner every time. I encourage you to dive into this recipe, tweak it to your liking, and enjoy every delicious bite of creamy buffalo chicken happiness on your plate.

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