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If you're on the hunt for a weeknight dinner that delights the palate without overwhelming your schedule, look no further than Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Pasta Skillet. This dish brings together the beloved flavors of Buffalo chicken and creamy pasta in a single skillet, making it a perfect choice for busy families or anyone looking to whip up something delicious with minimal fuss. Imagine tender pasta enveloped in a spicy, creamy sauce, complemented by juicy chicken and a kick of jalapeño heat. This recipe is not just a meal; it's an experience that tantalizes your taste buds while simplifying your cooking routine.

Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Pasta Skillet

Looking for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner? Try this Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Pasta Skillet! This one-skillet meal combines tender pasta with juicy chicken, spicy Buffalo sauce, and creamy goodness, all enhanced by fresh jalapeños. Perfect for busy families, it's an easy way to bring the vibrant flavors of Buffalo chicken to your dinner table. With minimal prep and an explosion of taste, this dish will be a new favorite in your recipe collection.
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Ingredients
  

8 oz penne pasta

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 cup buffalo sauce (adjust to taste)

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)

1/3 cup sliced fresh jalapeños (adjust to taste)

2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

    Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the diced chicken. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink and golden brown, about 6-8 minutes.

      Add the Flavor: Reduce the heat to medium and pour in the buffalo sauce and heavy cream. Stir to combine, allowing the sauce to simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors meld and the sauce thickens slightly.

        Combine with Pasta: Stir in the cooked penne pasta and toss until evenly coated with the sauce. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and creamy. If desired, fold in the crumbled blue cheese here for extra flavor.

          Spice it Up: Mix in the sliced jalapeños and adjust their quantity based on your spice preference. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.

            Serve and Garnish: Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and fresh cilantro. Serve hot and enjoy your spicy, cheesy dish!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings