Buffalo Chicken Ditalini Skillet With Buffalo-Orange Pasta
A bold and flavorful skillet combining spicy buffalo chicken with creamy ditalini pasta, perfect for game-day or weeknight dinners.
Equipment
- 1 Large Skillet
- 1 Cutting board
- 1 Chef's Knife
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 2 cups ditalini pasta
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese softened
Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Season the diced chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Cook the pasta
- In the same skillet, add the ditalini pasta, buffalo sauce, and orange juice. Add water until the pasta is just covered. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook until the pasta is tender, about 12-15 minutes.
Combine ingredients
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the pasta. Add cream cheese and half of the cheddar cheese, stirring until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top and let it melt before serving. Garnish with optional add-ons like green onions or parsley.
Serving
- Serve hot, paired with a fresh salad or crusty bread to complement the meal.
Storage
- Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze for up to two months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Notes
Pro Tips: Ensure pasta is al dente for texture. Adjust spiciness with buffalo sauce. Ingredient Substitutions: Use rotisserie chicken or gluten-free pasta. How to Serve: Pair with salad or bread. Storage & Freshness: Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours. Make-Ahead Tips: Prep chicken and sauce in advance.