Cheesy Skillet Creamy Dream

This creamy one-pan cheesy skillet dinner brings tender chicken and pasta together in a tangy buffalo sauce finished with a melty cheese topping. If you want a quick comfort meal without a sink full of dishes this recipe has you covered for busy nights or sudden cravings.

I made this skillet dish last minute when we were low on groceries and it instantly became a family favorite. Now we look forward to buffalo night whenever we need something both fast and cozy.

Ingredients

• Olive oil: brings out flavor and prevents sticking Choose good quality extra virgin for the best taste
• Cooked shredded chicken: saves time and soaks up the sauce easily Use rotisserie or leftovers for extra flavor
• Garlic powder: infuses savory depth A staple seasoning for creamy sauces
• Salt and black pepper: bring balance to the spiciness Taste as you go for best results
• Chicken broth: delivers subtle richness Go for low sodium if you want more control
• Heavy cream: makes the sauce silky and smooth Real cream is key for thickness
• Buffalo sauce: brings bold tangy flavor Classic hot sauce brands work well
• Pasta: like rotini penne or cavatappi holds onto sauce Best to choose shapes with ridges
• Shredded cheddar cheese: adds sharpness and melting power Freshly shredded is best
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: provides gooey stretch Go for whole milk mozzarella for best melt
• Cream cheese: softens the bite and thickens everything Let it come to room temp for easy mixing
• Green onions or parsley: offer freshness and a pop of color Choose vibrant green stalks or leaves

Step-by-Step Instructions

Heat the Skillet:

Start by heating olive oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat Wait until the oil is shimmering so you build a good base

Sauté Seasoned Chicken:

Add shredded chicken along with garlic powder salt and pepper Stir for two or three minutes letting the chicken warm through and allowing the aromatics to become fragrant

Deglaze and Add Liquids:

Pour in chicken broth heavy cream and buffalo sauce followed by uncooked pasta Stir to combine and make sure pasta is evenly spread

Simmer Pasta:

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil then reduce the heat to low Cover with a lid and allow the pasta to cook for ten to twelve minutes Stir every few minutes to help the pasta cook evenly and prevent sticking

Melt in the Cheeses:

Lower the heat Add cheddar mozzarella and cream cheese Stir well and watch all the cheeses blend into a thick creamy sauce Keep stirring until the sauce coats the pasta and chicken smoothly

Check and Adjust:

Taste your skillet to decide if you want more salt or pepper Depending on the buffalo sauce you may prefer extra seasoning

Garnish and Serve:

Top with freshly chopped green onions or parsley Serve directly from the skillet while hot and cheesy

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Cheddar is my secret ingredient in this skillet because it brings deep flavor and really ties everything together. The first time I made this my youngest got to sprinkle cheddar on top and now helping out is her favorite part of dinner.

Storage Tips

Leftovers keep well in an airtight container for up to three days in the refrigerator. For best reheating results add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce as it can thicken in the fridge. Avoid microwaving for too long to keep the cheese from separating.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a vegetarian version use roasted cauliflower or cooked chickpeas instead of chicken. You can swap rotini for any sturdy pasta shape you have on hand. Use a mild salsa or regular hot sauce if buffalo sauce is too spicy for your taste. Feel free to try Monterey Jack or Gouda cheese for a different twist.

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Serving Suggestions

Pair with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to lighten things up. Homemade garlic bread works wonders for soaking up every last bit of the creamy sauce. If you want extra heat sprinkle a little extra buffalo sauce before serving.

Cultural Context

This skillet dinner takes its inspiration from classic American buffalo chicken flavors usually found in wing shops and sports bars. By turning those iconic flavors into a creamy pasta dish you get a family-friendly meal that is a far cry from your usual casserole without sacrificing any of the fun.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken, turkey, or even cooked tofu are great alternatives for this dish.

→ What types of pasta work best in this meal?

Short shapes like rotini, penne, or cavatappi work well and cook evenly in the skillet with the sauce.

→ How can I adjust the level of spiciness?

Use more or less buffalo sauce to suit your heat preference, or choose a milder version if you prefer subtle spice.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

This skillet dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated with a splash of broth or cream.

→ What garnishes pair well with this meal?

Fresh chopped green onions or parsley lighten the flavors and add a nice color contrast to the creamy skillet.