Buffalo Chicken Pasta Dish (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 1 large boneless, skinless chicken breast (approximately 1 lb.)
02 - ½ cup blue cheese dressing (can substitute with ranch)
03 - 2 tablespoons butter, divided
04 - ½ cup yellow onion, diced
05 - 1 stick celery, diced
06 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
07 - 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
08 - 4 cups chicken broth
09 - 1 lb. penne pasta
10 - ½ cup buffalo sauce
11 - 8 oz. cream cheese, softened and cubed
12 - 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese
13 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
14 - 1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
15 - 2 tablespoons cold butter (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - Place chicken in a pot of water and bring to a gentle boil. Cook for 15 minutes or until cooked through. Remove and shred with two forks. Toss the chicken with blue cheese dressing and set aside.
02 - Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large high-walled skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and celery. Cook for 5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
03 - Add diced tomatoes (with liquid) and chicken broth to the skillet. Bring to a boil and add the pasta. Submerge the pasta completely in the liquid. Cover and let it boil for 10-13 minutes or until al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
04 - Reduce heat to low. Add buffalo sauce, cubed cream cheese, and the shredded cheddar and mozzarella. Gently stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce begins to thicken.
05 - Add shredded chicken and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir to combine. If desired, swirl in 2 tablespoons of cold butter for a smoother finish. Serve warm.

# Notes:

01 - For a richer, creamier sauce, shred cheese from a block instead of using pre-shredded cheese.
02 - Use slightly less than a pound of pasta if you prefer extra sauce, especially for leftovers.
03 - Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before adding for optimal melting.
04 - Add 1-2 chicken bouillon cubes to the water when boiling chicken for enhanced flavor.