Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe

There's nothing quite like the bold, tangy flavor of buffalo sauce paired with creamy pasta. This Buffalo Chicken Pasta is a family favorite that combines tender chicken, cheesy sauce, and just the right amount of heat for a dish that’s both comforting and exciting.

I discovered this recipe while trying to add a little spice to our weeknight meals, and it’s been a huge hit ever since. Quick, easy, and packed with flavor, it’s perfect for busy nights or game-day gatherings. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Get ready to meet your new favorite pasta dish! This Buffalo Chicken Pasta is the perfect combination of comfort food and a spicy twist, making it a standout option for any occasion. Here's why you'll love it:

First, it’s incredibly quick and easy to make. With only about 30 minutes from start to finish, it’s ideal for those busy nights when you don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.

Second, the flavor is absolutely addictive. The creamy sauce, infused with the tangy heat of buffalo sauce, pairs perfectly with juicy chicken and tender pasta, creating a dish that’s impossible to resist.

It’s also customizable! Whether you prefer mild buffalo sauce or like to turn up the heat, you can easily adjust the spice level to suit your taste buds. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken or pantry staples.

Lastly, this recipe is perfect for family meals or entertaining. Serve it on a cozy weeknight or during your next party – everyone will be asking for seconds!

Ready to bring some spice to your table? Let’s talk ingredients.

Ingredients Notes

The secret to this Buffalo Chicken Pasta lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one works together to create the perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and savory.

• Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe. Dice them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. If you’re short on time, shredded rotisserie chicken works beautifully too.
• Pasta: Any short pasta shape, like penne, rotini, or rigatoni, works great here. These shapes are perfect for holding onto the creamy buffalo sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
• Buffalo Sauce: The star of the dish! Use your favorite brand, but I love Frank’s RedHot for its tangy, bold flavor. Adjust the amount to control the spice level.
• Cream Cheese and Heavy Cream: These two ingredients create the luscious, creamy base for the sauce. The cream cheese also balances out the heat of the buffalo sauce.
• Cheese: Shredded cheddar or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella is perfect for adding that cheesy, melty goodness.
• Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, and a touch of paprika enhance the overall flavor of the dish.

If you have a large skillet and a pot for boiling pasta, you’re all set for equipment. Now, let’s get cooking!

How to Make This Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Making this Buffalo Chicken Pasta is as simple as it is delicious. Follow these steps for a flawless dish every time:

1. Cook the pasta: Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add your pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Cook the chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a splash of olive oil, then cook the diced chicken until golden and cooked through. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the cream cheese, buffalo sauce, and heavy cream. Stir until the cream cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
4. Combine everything: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the drained pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy buffalo sauce. Stir in the shredded cheese and let it melt into the sauce.
5. Finish and serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more buffalo sauce if desired. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color, and serve immediately.

In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a comforting, spicy dish that’s guaranteed to impress!

Storage Options

Got leftovers? This Buffalo Chicken Pasta stores beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep.

• Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.
• Freezer: While pasta doesn’t always freeze perfectly, you can freeze this dish if needed. Place it in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: When reheating, add a bit of milk or cream to prevent the sauce from drying out. Heat gently until warmed through.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is! Here are some fun ways to make it your own:

• Add veggies: Stir in steamed broccoli, spinach, or roasted bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Swap the protein: Instead of chicken, try using cooked shrimp, ground turkey, or even crumbled tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Make it lighter: Use reduced-fat cream cheese and swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or milk. The sauce will be lighter but still delicious.
• Go gluten-free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this dish celiac-friendly.
• Turn up the heat: If you’re a spice lover, add a dash of cayenne pepper or top with sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your perfect version of this recipe!

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