Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Instructions

1. 1
   Cook pasta in salted, boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. 2
   Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for 5-6 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
3. 3
   In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook 1 minute. Stir in buffalo sauce and cream cheese, whisking until cream cheese is melted and mixture is smooth.
4. 4
   Stir in half-and-half (or milk). Add 1 cup cheddar and whisk until cheese is melted and sauce is creamy. Thin with reserved pasta water as needed.
5. 5
   Return cooked chicken (and any juices) to the sauce along with drained pasta and green onions. Toss to coat.
6. 6
   Top with remaining 1/2 cup cheddar. Broil 2-3 minutes, just until cheese is bubbly and golden. Garnish with additional green onions and ranch or blue cheese dressing, if using. Serve hot!