Imagine creamy, spicy, and cheesy all in one bowl—that’s exactly what the Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe delivers. This delightful dish combines tender shredded chicken drenched in tangy buffalo wing sauce with perfectly cooked pasta, wrapped in a luscious, cheesy sauce that dances with bold flavors. It’s comfort food elevated, bringing that iconic buffalo zing together with the creaminess you crave, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe calls for simple but essential ingredients that harmonize to create an irresistible taste and texture. Each component plays a crucial role—from the punchy buffalo sauce and creamy cheeses to the perfectly spiced chicken and pasta base, every bite sings deliciousness.
- 12 oz penne or rotini pasta: These shapes hold onto the sauce beautifully and provide a satisfying bite.
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast: Tender and lean, this is the protein-packed star of the dish.
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce: Adds that signature tangy, spicy kick that defines this recipe.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Melts into the sauce to create richness without overpowering other flavors.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce luxuriously smooth and creamy.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly for gooey, cheesy indulgence.
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened: Contributes to a velvety texture and balances the heat.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds depth and a subtle savory note.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances overall flavor complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Introduces a hint of smokiness that complements the buffalo sauce.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Essential for bringing all flavors together just right.
- 1/2 cup blue cheese, crumbled: Classic buffalo wing topping that’s tangy, creamy, and oh-so-good.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or green onions (optional): Adds freshness and a pop of color.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne or rotini pasta until it’s al dente, usually following the package instructions. This step ensures the pasta will have just the right bite to soak up that heavenly buffalo sauce without getting mushy. Once it’s cooked, drain and set it aside to get ready for the saucy mix.
Step 2: Create sauce base
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter gently. Once it’s ready, pour in the buffalo wing sauce and stir it together so the butter and spicy sauce meld into a flavorful starting point. This base is where the magic happens, blending creamy richness with that fiery buffalo punch.
Step 3: Incorporate cream cheese
Turn the heat down low and whisk in the softened cream cheese until it’s fully smooth and creamy. Pour in the heavy cream and keep whisking steadily—the sauce should come together nice and silky, carrying all those bold flavors in a smooth, luscious coating for the pasta.
Step 4: Melt cheeses and season
Now it’s time to pile on the shredded mozzarella cheese and sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir everything carefully until the mozzarella melts into the sauce, creating a beautifully smooth and flavorful blend that will coat each noodle perfectly.
Step 5: Add chicken
Toss in the cooked, shredded chicken breast, making sure each piece is well coated in that spicy, creamy sauce. Heating the chicken through at this point guarantees every bite bursts with buffalo goodness, perfectly infused with those seasonings.
Step 6: Combine pasta and sauce
Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet and gently toss everything together. This step is key to ensure every noodle is covered in the sumptuous buffalo sauce, marrying the textures and flavors harmoniously.
Step 7: Plate and garnish
Transfer your piping-hot buffalo chicken pasta to serving bowls. Sprinkle crumbled blue cheese over the top for that classic buffalo flavor finish. For an extra touch of freshness and vibrant color, scatter chopped fresh chives or green onions if you like. Serve immediately while it’s still warm and oozy for the best experience.
How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of crumbled blue cheese and a handful of chopped chives or green onions add the perfect finishing touch to your Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe. These garnishes provide a boost of flavor and a pop of color that makes the dish look as delightful as it tastes. The blue cheese offers a tangy creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the spicy sauce, while the chives add a fresh bite.
Side Dishes
Because this pasta packs a flavorful punch, it pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides. Crisp celery sticks, carrot sticks, or a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette help balance the richness and heat, keeping your meal bright and satisfying. Garlic bread or toasted baguette slices make excellent options, letting you scoop up every last bit of juicy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress guests or make mealtime a little more special? Serve the Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe in individual cast iron skillets or mini casserole dishes for a rustic presentation. You can also layer the pasta into a casserole dish and broil the top until bubbling and golden to create a cheesy crust twist on this beloved recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe leftovers store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld even more as it rests, making for an easy yet delicious next-day meal. Just be sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to preserve texture and taste.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze this pasta in individual portions or a large airtight container. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. It’s best eaten within 2 months for maximum flavor, and thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring often to keep the sauce creamy and smooth. Add a splash of milk or cream if it seems thickened after refrigeration to bring back the luscious texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne and rotini work great because they hold sauce, feel free to swap in penne, farfalle, or even shells depending on your preference and what you have on hand. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
How spicy is the Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe?
The heat level depends on the buffalo wing sauce you choose. Using a medium heat buffalo sauce gives a pleasant kick without overwhelming the palate, but if you love things fiery, go for a hot sauce variety or add a pinch of cayenne.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the shredded chicken for cooked cauliflower florets or even chickpeas for a vegetarian version. The buffalo sauce and cheesy sauce maintain the bold flavors without missing a beat.
Is blue cheese necessary?
Blue cheese is a classic pairing for buffalo flavors, but it’s optional. You can substitute with feta or omit it entirely if you’re not a fan. The dish still shines with the buffalo sauce and mozzarella blend.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that adds flavor and convenience. Just shred it and add it right into the sauce—this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe is perfect for easy weeknight dinners!
Final Thoughts
This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug you can eat—a perfect balance of spicy, creamy, and cheesy that satisfies every craving. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, it’s a dish that never disappoints. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a beloved staple in your recipe collection!
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Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Buffalo Chicken Pasta recipe combines tender shredded chicken, spicy buffalo sauce, and creamy cheese to create a flavorful and comforting meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it features a smooth buffalo cheese sauce coating al dente pasta, topped with tangy blue cheese and fresh chives for an extra burst of flavor.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz penne or rotini pasta
Buffalo Sauce & Cheese Mixture
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Garnish
- 1/2 cup blue cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or green onions (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Create sauce base: While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the buffalo wing sauce and stir to combine thoroughly.
- Incorporate cream cheese: Lower the heat and whisk in the softened cream cheese until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gradually pour in the heavy cream, whisking constantly to maintain a creamy sauce consistency.
- Melt cheeses and season: Stir in shredded mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Continue cooking until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Add chicken: Add the cooked shredded chicken to the sauce. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly and heat through completely.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet and toss gently to combine, making sure the pasta is fully coated with the buffalo cheese sauce.
- Plate and garnish: Transfer the pasta to serving bowls. Sprinkle with crumbled blue cheese and chopped fresh chives or green onions if desired for added flavor and color.
- Serve immediately: Serve the buffalo chicken pasta hot to enjoy the creamy, spicy flavors at their best.
Notes
- Use cooked shredded chicken for convenience; leftover rotisserie chicken works great.
- If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of buffalo wing sauce or substitute with mild wing sauce.
- For a richer dish, you can add more cream or cheese to taste.
- This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad and celery sticks for a classic buffalo experience.
- To keep the pasta from drying out, toss it with olive oil after draining if not combining immediately with the sauce.
