Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe

There's nothing quite like the zesty aroma of Buffalo Chicken Pasta filling your kitchen on a busy weeknight. This crowd-pleasing dish combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a creamy, spicy buffalo sauce that will have your family reaching for seconds.

this Recipe

I discovered this recipe during football season when I needed a dish that was hearty, quick to prepare, and packed with bold flavors. What started as a game-day experiment has now become a household favorite that’s requested year-round. Let me show you how to make this irresistible dish in no time!

Why You'll Love This Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Get ready to meet your new favorite comfort food. This Buffalo Chicken Pasta is everything you love about buffalo chicken wings, transformed into a creamy, satisfying pasta dish.

First, it's incredibly easy to prepare. In under 30 minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on the table, perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining.

The flavors are bold and balanced. The spicy buffalo sauce pairs beautifully with the richness of the creamy base, while the pasta ties everything together into a satisfying bite.

It's also endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, customizing spice levels, or using up leftovers, this recipe is flexible enough to suit your needs.

Finally, it’s a one-pot wonder! With minimal cleanup, you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Buffalo Chicken Pasta lies in its simple, flavorful ingredients. Each component works together to create a dish that's creamy, spicy, and utterly delicious.

The pasta is the heart of the dish. Penne, rotini, or shells work best as their shapes hold onto the sauce beautifully. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, swap in your favorite GF pasta.

For the chicken, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Cooked rotisserie chicken or even leftover shredded chicken also works perfectly and saves time.

The buffalo sauce is where the bold, spicy flavor comes from. Use your favorite store-bought brand, or make your own for a personal touch. Adjust the amount based on your preferred heat level.

Cream cheese and heavy cream create the luscious, creamy base of the sauce. If you're looking for a lighter version, you can substitute with Greek yogurt or half-and-half, but the texture may be slightly thinner.

Don't forget the cheese! Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack melts beautifully into the sauce, adding richness and depth of flavor.

If you want a little extra zing, blue cheese crumbles make a fantastic topping. Their sharp, tangy flavor cuts through the richness of the sauce for the ultimate finish.

You’ll also need a large skillet or sauté pan to bring everything together.

How To Make This Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Creating this creamy, spicy Buffalo Chicken Pasta is quick and straightforward. Let me guide you through the process step by step.

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil, and once hot, add your diced chicken. Season with salt and pepper, and sauté until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add cream cheese and heavy cream. Stir until the cream cheese melts into the cream, forming a smooth sauce.

Next, add your buffalo sauce and mix until well combined. Taste and adjust the spice level by adding more sauce or a splash of pasta water to thin it out if needed.

Return the chicken to the skillet, followed by the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the sauce. Stir in shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese until melted and gooey.

Top with chopped green onions, blue cheese crumbles, or even a drizzle of ranch dressing for extra flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy the perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and hearty.

Storage Options

Leftovers of this Buffalo Chicken Pasta store beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep.

Refrigerate: Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freeze: For longer storage, place the pasta in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. It will keep well for up to 2 months.

Reheat: Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. Here are a few ideas to customize it:

• Make it vegetarian: Swap the chicken for roasted vegetables like cauliflower, bell peppers, or zucchini.
• Use a different protein: Shrimp, ground turkey, or even plant-based chicken substitutes work wonderfully.
• Add veggies: Stir in cooked broccoli, spinach, or diced tomatoes for extra nutrition.
• Adjust the spice: For a milder dish, use less buffalo sauce or mix it with additional cream. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce.
• Experiment with toppings: Crumbled bacon, crispy fried onions, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese all make excellent additions.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with this dish. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your own twist, it’s sure to be a hit!

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