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Spicy Buffalo Pepper Jack Chicken Pasta Skillet in a skillet with garnish

Spicy Buffalo Pepper Jack Chicken Pasta Skillet

A vibrant and hearty dish featuring tender chicken, zesty buffalo sauce, and creamy pepper jack cheese, all tossed with pasta for an unforgettable meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 cups Pasta (penne or rotini) Use whole wheat or gluten-free options if desired.
  • 1 lb Chicken breast, diced Substitute with turkey or tofu for a different protein.
  • 1 cup Pepper jack cheese, shredded For a milder dish, use Monterey Jack cheese.
  • 1/2 cup Buffalo sauce Adjust amount to control spice level.
  • 1 tablespoon Olive oil Can substitute with avocado oil.
  • 1/2 cup Onion, chopped Shallots work well as an alternative.
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced Use garlic powder as a substitute in pinch.
  • Salt and pepper Season as desired to enhance flavor.
  • Fresh parsley for garnish Optional; add for color and fresh flavor.

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Boil water in a large pot, add the pasta, and cook according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until fragrant.
  3. Add the diced chicken to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through.
  4. Stir in the buffalo sauce and cooked pasta, mixing until all ingredients are well combined.
  5. Reduce heat and stir in the shredded pepper jack cheese until it melts and creates a creamy sauce.
  6. Remove from heat and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Use high-quality buffalo sauce for the best flavor; homemade versions can bring out incredible freshness. Cook the chicken evenly by cutting it into small, uniform pieces to ensure faster cooking. For a creamier sauce, add an extra splash of buffalo sauce or a dollop of sour cream. Do not overcook the pasta as it will continue to cook slightly in the skillet with the sauce. Toss in additional veggies like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and flavor. For a tangy twist, consider adding a splash of ranch dressing to the mixture before serving.