Creamy Buffalo Chick Recipe

If you love bold flavors wrapped in irresistibly creamy goodness, then this Creamy Buffalo Chick recipe is about to become your new obsession. Imagine tender shredded chicken tossed in tangy buffalo sauce, cozying up inside tender jumbo pasta shells, all lovingly blended with luscious cheeses and just the right hint of ranch and garlic. Each bite delivers a perfect harmony of spice, creaminess, and comfort that feels both exciting and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering, this dish promises to make buffalo chicken lovers smile from the very first forkful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things wonderfully simple while layering in flavors that sing together beautifully. Each ingredient plays a key role, from the creamy cheeses balancing the heat, to the fresh green onions adding a pop of color and a subtle crunch.

• 12 jumbo pasta shells: These are the perfect size to hold all the creamy, spicy filling without falling apart.
• 2 cup cooked chicken, shredded: Shredded chicken is versatile, and it soaks up the buffalo sauce perfectly.
• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce: Adds that signature tangy, spicy kick we all crave in buffalo dishes.
• 1 cup ricotta cheese: Creamy with a mild flavor, ricotta creates the luscious texture inside the shells.
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: Mozzarella melts beautifully and adds gooey richness to the dish.
• 4 ounce cream cheese, softened: This amps up the creaminess and binds everything together.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Garlic adds a subtle depth of flavor that rounds out the spice.
• 1/4 cup ranch dressing: Ranch brings a cooling, creamy element that complements the buffalo heat.
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped: Fresh green onions add a crisp, vibrant finish and a bit of color contrast.

How to Make Creamy Buffalo Chick

Step 1: Prepare the Jumbo Pasta Shells

Start by boiling the jumbo pasta shells in salted water until they are al dente, usually about 9 to 11 minutes depending on the brand. Drain carefully and lay them on a sheet of parchment or a lightly oiled tray to prevent sticking. This sets the stage perfectly for stuffing later.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Buffalo Filling

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, ricotta, mozzarella, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, and ranch dressing. Stir everything together until it forms a creamy, cohesive mixture that’s bursting with flavor. This is the heart of the Creamy Buffalo Chick, where all those delicious tastes come alive in harmony.

Step 3: Stuff the Shells

Gently spoon the buffalo chicken mixture into each pasta shell. Fill them generously but carefully to avoid tearing. The goal is to have each shell loaded with that rich, spicy filling for maximum deliciousness in every bite.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the stuffed shells in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for about 20 minutes until everything is heated through and the cheese melts nicely. Removing the foil the last few minutes can give you a lovely golden top if you like a bit of extra texture.

How to Serve Creamy Buffalo Chick

Garnishes

Top your Creamy Buffalo Chick with a sprinkle of chopped green onions or fresh parsley for a burst of color and crisp freshness. A drizzle of extra ranch or a few crumbles of blue cheese can also elevate the dish and balance the spice with cool creaminess.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides like a crisp green salad, roasted veggies, or even celery sticks to channel that classic buffalo wing vibe. A side of garlic bread or crusty bread is also a fantastic way to scoop up any leftover sauce and cheese.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try layering the Creamy Buffalo Chick stuffing in a casserole dish topped with extra cheese and bake it as a layered bake instead of stuffing the shells. You could also serve the filling over cauliflower rice or inside bell pepper halves for a low-carb option that still packs all the flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Creamy Buffalo Chick in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a great option for quick lunches or a speedy second dinner.

Freezing

You can freeze the stuffed shells before baking by arranging them on a tray, freezing until firm, then transferring to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, bake them directly from frozen but add extra bake time covered with foil to heat through evenly.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the Creamy Buffalo Chick in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot and bubbly, usually about 15 to 20 minutes. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts to avoid drying out the chicken and cheese filling.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of jumbo shells?

Absolutely! While jumbo shells are ideal for stuffing, large manicotti tubes or even large pasta tubes work well too. Just make sure they are cooked al dente to hold the filling properly.

Is this recipe very spicy? Can I adjust the heat?

The Creamy Buffalo Chick has a moderate level of heat thanks to the buffalo sauce. If you prefer less spice, use a milder buffalo sauce or reduce the quantity. Adding extra ranch or cream cheese can also mellow the heat.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the chicken for cooked cauliflower florets, shredded jackfruit, or even a combination of sautéed mushrooms and spinach to keep the creamy, spicy vibe without meat.

What type of buffalo sauce is best to use?

Use your favorite brand of buffalo wing sauce, preferably one that balances vinegar tang with a bit of buttery richness. This will help create that classic, rich buffalo flavor integral to the dish.

How do I know when the dish is fully cooked?

Once baked, the dish should be hot and bubbly, with the cheese melted throughout and a slight golden color on top if uncovered at the end. The filling should be heated through, so a fork inserted should feel warm in the center.

Final Thoughts

I cannot recommend making the Creamy Buffalo Chick enough! It’s a fantastic blend of spicy, creamy, and comforting all in one. Perfect for impressing friends or savoring a cozy night in, this recipe brings together classic flavors with a fun pasta twist that’s sure to brighten any meal. Grab your jumbo shells and let’s get cooking — your new favorite dish awaits!

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