Buffalo Chicken Pasta is a flavorful, creamy dish that combines the tangy heat of buffalo sauce with the comforting richness of pasta. This recipe marries the spicy, bold flavors of buffalo chicken wings with the hearty satisfaction of a pasta dish, making it a favorite for fans of bold, spicy meals. The appeal lies in its versatility and ease—it’s a one-pot dish that can be prepared quickly, making it ideal for weeknight dinners. The combination of tender chicken, creamy cheeses, and spicy buffalo sauce creates a crowd-pleasing dish that’s both comforting and exciting.

Essential Ingredients Breakdown

Main Protein: Chicken Breast

Boneless, skinless chicken breast is a staple in this recipe due to its lean nature and quick cooking time. It absorbs the buffalo sauce’s flavors well, ensuring each bite is tender and juicy. While chicken breast is a popular choice, you can easily substitute it with boneless chicken thighs for a richer flavor or use shredded rotisserie chicken for added convenience and time-saving, making the dish even quicker to prepare.

Buffalo Sauce

The buffalo sauce is the star of this dish, providing the signature tangy heat that buffalo chicken is known for. It infuses the entire pasta with a spicy kick that complements the creamy cheese. You can opt for store-bought buffalo sauce for ease or make your own at home, which allows you to adjust the heat level and ingredients to your preference. The homemade version can offer a more personalized taste, but store-bought is just as effective.

Dairy Elements: Cheese and Cream Cheese

Cream cheese plays a crucial role in creating the velvety texture of the sauce, binding the pasta, chicken, and buffalo sauce together. It adds a subtle tanginess that balances the heat of the buffalo sauce. Shredded cheddar and mozzarella are also essential, adding both flavor and the classic gooey, melty texture that makes this dish so comforting. Cheddar brings sharpness, while mozzarella adds creaminess and a beautiful melted finish.

Vegetables: Onion, Celery, Garlic

These vegetables add necessary texture and depth of flavor to the dish. Onions and celery provide a slight crunch and a savory base, while garlic infuses the dish with its aromatic richness, enhancing the overall taste profile.

Optional Ingredients

For those who enjoy extra heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the spiciness. Additionally, a final swirl of butter adds richness and helps to smooth out the sauce, making it even more luscious and indulgent.

Why Blue Cheese Dressing? 

Blue cheese dressing is a classic companion to buffalo flavors, offering a tangy, creamy contrast to the spicy buffalo sauce. The sharpness of blue cheese enhances the overall taste, creating a balanced flavor profile that fans of buffalo wings love. However, for those who prefer a milder taste, ranch dressing is a great alternative. It provides a creamy texture without the strong blue cheese flavor, allowing the buffalo sauce to shine while still adding richness and moisture to the dish. Both options offer a delicious way to complement the bold buffalo flavor.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

Begin by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breast in a pot of water and bringing it to a gentle boil. A gentle boil is crucial because it cooks the chicken slowly, preventing it from becoming tough and ensuring it remains tender and juicy. Cook the chicken for about 15 minutes, or until fully cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken and use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Shredding the chicken while it’s still warm helps achieve a finer, more consistent texture, which is ideal for mixing into the pasta later.

Cooking the Vegetables

In a large, high-walled skillet, melt two tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add diced onions and celery to the skillet and sauté for about five minutes until they become soft and translucent. Sautéing the vegetables gently allows them to release their flavors without burning. After the onions and celery have softened, add the minced garlic. Garlic cooks quickly, so it’s important to add it at this stage to prevent it from burning and becoming bitter. Stir the garlic for about one minute until fragrant.

Making the Sauce

Next, pour in the undrained can of diced tomatoes and the chicken broth. Stir to combine the ingredients and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta, ensuring it is fully submerged in the liquid. Cover the skillet and cook the pasta according to the package instructions, usually 10-13 minutes, until al dente. It’s important not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook slightly as the sauce thickens.

Bringing it All Together

Once the pasta is cooked to al dente, reduce the heat to low. Add the buffalo sauce, cubed cream cheese, and shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses to the skillet. Stir gently with a silicone spatula to incorporate the ingredients into a smooth, creamy sauce. At first, the sauce may appear thin, but it will thicken as it stands. Stirring slowly helps prevent the cheese from separating, ensuring a rich and cohesive sauce. After the sauce reaches your desired consistency, add the shredded chicken and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you prefer extra heat. For an extra luxurious finish, you can swirl in two tablespoons of cold butter, a technique known as “Monter au Beurre,” which adds a silky texture to the sauce.

Pro Tips for Perfect Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Prepping Cheese Ahead of Time

To achieve a smooth and creamy sauce, it’s essential to let the cream cheese, cheddar, and mozzarella come to room temperature before adding them to the pasta. This helps the cheeses melt evenly and integrate smoothly into the sauce, preventing any clumping or separation.

Using Bouillon Cubes for Extra Flavor

Enhance the flavor of your chicken by adding 1-2 bouillon cubes to the water when boiling it. This infuses the chicken with a rich, savory taste that will deepen the overall flavor of the dish. It’s a simple trick that elevates the entire recipe.

Stirring Techniques to Prevent Sticking

When cooking the pasta, use a silicone spatula to stir the pasta occasionally, making sure to scrape the bottom of the skillet. This prevents the pasta from sticking and ensures it cooks evenly. Stirring slowly and gently while incorporating the cheese also helps maintain a creamy, lump-free sauce. Additionally, when you add the shredded chicken and sauce ingredients, continue to stir gently to keep the pasta from breaking apart and to ensure that the sauce coats every piece evenly.

Customizing Your Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Spice Level Adjustments

Tailor the heat of your Buffalo Chicken Pasta by adjusting the amount of buffalo sauce used. For a milder dish, reduce the buffalo sauce and consider adding a splash of ranch or cream to tone down the spice. Conversely, if you love heat, increase the buffalo sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.

Cheese Variations

Experiment with different cheeses to alter the flavor profile. Swap cheddar for pepper jack to add a spicy twist, or use a smoked gouda for a deeper, more complex taste. Parmesan can also be sprinkled in for a sharper, nuttier flavor.

Adding Vegetables

Boost the nutritional content and texture by incorporating additional vegetables. Bell peppers add a sweet crunch, spinach provides a dose of greens, and mushrooms contribute an earthy flavor. You can sauté these along with the onions and celery for a well-rounded dish.

Alternative Proteins

Diversify your Buffalo Chicken Pasta by replacing chicken with other proteins. Shrimp is an excellent choice for seafood lovers, offering a slightly sweet contrast to the spicy sauce. Tofu can be used for a vegetarian option, while ground turkey or even sausage can bring a different texture and flavor to the dish.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Best Sides to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Buffalo Chicken Pasta pairs wonderfully with lighter, crunchy sides to balance the richness of the dish. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can refresh your palate between bites, while a side of roasted vegetables like broccoli or carrots adds a healthy complement. Garlic bread or a warm baguette also makes a perfect addition, offering a way to soak up the creamy, spicy sauce.

Ideal Beverages to Complement the Dish

For beverages, consider something that can cool the heat of the buffalo sauce. A cold, light beer like a lager or pilsner works well, while a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay can balance the spiciness with its acidity. For non-alcoholic options, iced tea or a refreshing lemonade are great choices.

Garnish Ideas

Elevate your Buffalo Chicken Pasta with some simple garnishes. Sliced green onions add a fresh, sharp bite that contrasts nicely with the creamy sauce. Extra blue cheese crumbles can enhance the tangy flavor, while a sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of herbal freshness. For an extra touch of heat, you could also add a dash of hot sauce.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Proper Storage Methods to Maintain Freshness

To keep your Buffalo Chicken Pasta fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This helps prevent the pasta from drying out and keeps it flavorful for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the pasta has cooled to room temperature before sealing to avoid condensation, which can make the dish soggy.

How to Reheat Without Losing Texture or Flavor

When reheating, do so gently to maintain the dish’s creamy texture. Use the stovetop on low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if it’s thickened. Stir frequently to heat evenly. If using a microwave, reheat in short intervals, stirring between each to prevent the cheese from separating.

Tips for Freezing if Needed

Buffalo Chicken Pasta can be frozen for up to two months. For best results, portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers or bags. To thaw, transfer the container to the refrigerator overnight, then reheat following the stovetop method. Freezing may slightly alter the texture of the cheese, so stirring in fresh cream cheese or shredded cheese when reheating can help restore creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Buffalo Chicken Pasta ahead of time. Cook the pasta and sauce as directed, then store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to keep the sauce creamy.

How do I make it less spicy?

To reduce the spice, decrease the amount of buffalo sauce and replace some with extra cream cheese or ranch dressing. You can also omit any additional hot spices like red pepper flakes.

What can I use if I don’t have buffalo sauce?

If you don’t have buffalo sauce, you can substitute it with a combination of hot sauce and melted butter. Adjust the ratio to your taste, starting with 1/2 cup hot sauce and 2 tablespoons butter.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta like rotini, rigatoni, or shells can be used instead of penne. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta’s package instructions.

Is there a dairy-free version?

To make a dairy-free version, use dairy-free cream cheese and shredded cheese alternatives. Substitute the butter with a plant-based option and check that the buffalo sauce is dairy-free.

Conclusion

Buffalo Chicken Pasta is a must-try dish that combines the bold, tangy flavors of buffalo sauce with the comforting creaminess of pasta and cheese. It’s easy to prepare, versatile, and perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. The dish offers endless customization options, allowing you to adjust the spice level, experiment with different cheeses, or incorporate additional vegetables and proteins. Whether you stick to the recipe or make it your own, this pasta is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Enjoy the process of creating your personalized version!

Buffalo Chicken Pasta

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• Author: Christine

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Description

Buffalo Chicken Pasta is a mouthwatering fusion of spicy buffalo chicken flavors with the creamy goodness of pasta. This one-pot dish features tender chicken, tangy buffalo sauce, and a rich, cheesy sauce that coats every bite. It’s a perfect blend of comfort food and bold flavors, ideal for quick dinners or entertaining guests.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 large boneless skinless chicken breast, equal to 1 lb.
• ½ cup blue cheese dressing, can sub ranch
• 2 Tablespoons butter, divided
• ½ cup yellow onion, diced
• 1 stick celery, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 14.5 oz. diced tomatoes, undrained, (1 can)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 lb. penne
• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
• 8 oz. cream cheese, softened and cubed
• 1.5 cups cheddar, shredded
• 1 cup mozzarella, shredded
• 1 pinch red pepper flakes, optional
• 2 tablespoons cold butter, optional

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Instructions

• PRO Tip: Set the cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese out ahead of time. We want them near room temperature when we add them to the pasta.

Gently Boil/Shred the Chicken:

• Place chicken in a pot of water and bring to a gentle boil. (A gentle boil ensures that the chicken doesn’t become tough.) Cook for 15 minutes, until cooked through. Remove and use two forks to shred. Toss with blue cheese dressing and set aside.
• Pro Tip: Add 1-2 chicken bouillon cubes to the water to add more flavor to the chicken.

Prepare the Pasta:

• Melt butter in a large high-walled skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and celery. Cook for 5 minutes, until softened. Add the garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
• Add the undrained diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil and add the pasta. Submerge the pasta into the liquid and let it come back up to a boil.
• Cover and let it boil for 10-13 minutes, or until al dente. Refer to box for guidance on cooking time. Don’t cook any more than al dente as we will be keeping it over low heat until the sauce is thickened. Lift the lid and run a silicone spatula underneath the pasta a few times throughout cooking to ensure the pasta doesn’t stick. Test a pasta noodle for doneness before proceeding.
• Reduce heat to low. Add the buffalo sauce, cubed cream cheese, and shredded cheese. Use a silicone spatula to gently stir. The sauce will seem thin at first, but it continues to thicken as it stands, and will thicken further at the next step.
• Add the shredded chicken and red pepper flakes.
• Optional: Once sauce is near your desired consistency, swirl in 2 Tablespoons COLD butter. This is a technique that chefs use called “Monter au Beurre”, which creates a smooth finish when added to warm sauces.

Notes

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste! Adjust the spice level, try different cheeses, or add extra veggies to make it your own. For a milder version, substitute some buffalo sauce with ranch dressing or additional cream cheese.