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Healthy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

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4.2 from 65 reviews

  • Author: Diane
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

This Healthy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake combines tender penne pasta, shredded chicken, and a creamy blend of cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, and ranch seasoning, all tossed in a flavorful Frank's hot sauce. Topped with melted mozzarella and sharp cheddar cheese and finished with fresh green onions, this dish offers a spicy, creamy comfort meal perfect for a quick and nutritious dinner.

Ingredients

Pasta and Protein

  • 4 cups penne pasta (cooked)
  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken

Cheese and Dairy

  • 1/2 cup cottage cheese (blended, optional but recommended)
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese

Flavorings

  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
  • 1/3 cup Frank's hot sauce
  • 1/4 cup green onions, chopped

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the pasta dish.
  2. Prepare Casserole Dish: Spray a 9 x 13 inch casserole dish with cooking spray and set it aside to prevent sticking.
  3. Cook Pasta and Blend Cottage Cheese: Cook penne pasta according to package directions. While the pasta cooks, optionally blend the cottage cheese in a blender until smooth for a creamier texture.
  4. Mix Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the blended cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, ranch seasoning mix, Frank's hot sauce, and half of both the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
  5. Combine Pasta and Chicken: Add the cooked pasta and shredded chicken into the sauce mixture. Stir everything together until the chicken and pasta are fully coated with the sauce.
  6. Assemble in Dish: Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Evenly sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the top.
  7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is fully melted and bubbly.
  8. Add Final Touch: Remove from oven and sprinkle the chopped green onions over the top for freshness and added flavor.
  9. Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm and enjoy your delicious, healthy buffalo chicken pasta bake!

Notes

  • Blending cottage cheese is optional but recommended for a creamier sauce consistency.
  • You can use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken to save time.
  • Adjust the amount of hot sauce to control the level of spiciness.
  • For a lower-fat version, use low-fat cheeses and Greek yogurt.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://eatwithdiane.com/healthy-buffalo-chicken-pasta-bake-recipe/