Slow Cooker Cheesy Buffalo Chicken (Printable Version)

Creamy buffalo chicken paired with linguine and cheddar for a bold, comforting dinner. #cheesypasta #buffalochicken #comfortfood #slowcooker #easymeals

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken
02 - 3 cups chicken broth
03 - 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce, divided (1/4 cup used initially, 1/4 cup added later)
04 - 1 tablespoon ranch dressing mix (from a packet)
05 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
06 - 1/4 teaspoon celery salt
07 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
08 - 1/8 teaspoon pepper
09 - 8 ounces cream cheese
10 - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
11 - 1 tablespoon cornstarch
12 - 1 tablespoon water
13 - 16 ounces linguine noodles
14 - Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)

# Steps:

01 - Place chicken, broth, 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce, and seasonings in the slow cooker.
02 - Top the mixture with cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese.
03 - Cover and cook on high for 4 hours or on low for 8 hours.
04 - When the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks in a separate bowl.
05 - Add the remaining 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce to the shredded chicken and toss to coat. Set the chicken aside.
06 - Whisk together cornstarch and water, then add the mixture to the slow cooker. Stir the melted cheese and softened cream cheese until smooth and combined.
07 - Break linguine noodles in half and place them in the slow cooker. Top with the shredded chicken and cover.
08 - Turn the slow cooker to high and cook for an additional 30-60 minutes, stirring 3-4 times during this period, until the noodles are fully cooked.
09 - If the noodles are not done after 30-60 minutes, add extra broth or water, 1/4 cup at a time, as needed.
10 - Garnish with fresh cilantro (optional) and serve immediately.

# Notes:

01 - Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth or water to smooth the sauce.
02 - Stir pasta occasionally with tongs or a large fork for best results.
03 - Reduce spice by using less buffalo sauce or a milder variant.