If you’re a fan of bold flavors and comforting pasta, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe. Imagine tender pasta swirled in a creamy, tangy buffalo sauce, studded with juicy shredded chicken and melty cheese, all coming together in a dish that’s as perfect for a weeknight dinner as it is for game day. This recipe is pure comfort food with a delightful kick, and every bite delivers the classic wing flavors you crave—without any of the mess. Ready to spice up your pasta night?
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe is how the ingredients work in harmony. Each one is simple, easy to find, and brings something special to the table—whether it’s creaminess, spice, or that irresistible cheesy pull. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters:
- Pasta (12 oz penne or rotini): The hearty shape holds onto the creamy sauce and chunks of chicken beautifully.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps bloom the garlic for extra flavor.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Freshly minced garlic brings a savory depth to the sauce.
- Cooked shredded chicken (2 cups): Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and juicy, flavorful bites.
- Buffalo wing sauce (1/2 cup): The heart and soul of the dish—adjust the amount to match your spice preference!
- Cream cheese (1 8-oz block, softened): Makes the sauce ultra creamy and balances the heat.
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing (1/2 cup): Adds a cool, tangy counterpoint to the spicy sauce—pick your favorite!
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts into the sauce for that classic cheesy goodness.
- Mozzarella cheese (1/4 cup): Gives a stretchy, gooey texture you’ll love.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Season at the end to bring all the flavors together.
- Chopped green onions or parsley (optional): Adds a fresh, colorful finish that brightens up the plate.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Drop in your penne or rotini and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This ensures your pasta holds up to the creamy sauce and doesn’t get mushy. Drain well and set aside—you’re already halfway to comfort food heaven!
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until it begins to foam. Toss in the minced garlic, stirring for about 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant. This quick step infuses the butter with garlicky goodness that will infuse the entire Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Buffalo Sauce
Pour in the buffalo wing sauce and add the softened cream cheese. Whisk continuously as the cream cheese melts, forming a silky, spicy sauce. The cream cheese not only tames some of the heat but also gives the sauce its signature luscious texture—don’t rush this part!
Step 4: Add Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing
Stir in your choice of ranch or blue cheese dressing, blending until the sauce is smooth and well combined. This step brings a tangy, cooling element that perfectly balances the bold buffalo flavors. It’s the secret that makes this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe irresistible.
Step 5: Combine Chicken, Pasta, and Cheese
Fold in the shredded chicken, followed by the cooked pasta, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella. Stir gently until the cheese melts and everything is fully coated in the creamy sauce. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Allow the mixture to simmer on low for two to three minutes, just until everything is hot and the cheese is oozy.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Take your Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe off the heat and sprinkle with chopped green onions or parsley if you like a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot, and watch everyone dig in with big smiles!
How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Finish your pasta with a generous sprinkle of chopped green onions or parsley for color and crunch. If you’re a true buffalo fan, a little extra drizzle of buffalo sauce or a few crumbles of blue cheese on top can take this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe to new heights.
Side Dishes
Pair this dish with a crisp green salad or classic celery and carrot sticks for a refreshing contrast. Warm garlic bread or crusty rolls are perfect for soaking up any extra sauce and rounding out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the pasta in individual oven-safe dishes, top with a sprinkle of cheddar, and broil until bubbly for a restaurant-style finish. Or, scoop the Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe into lettuce cups for a playful, party-ready twist!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making next-day lunches even more flavorful!
Freezing
You can freeze the Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe for up to two months. Cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently to keep the creamy texture smooth and luscious.
FAQs
Can I make this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe less spicy?
Absolutely! Use less buffalo sauce or opt for a mild variety to tone down the heat, and add more ranch or blue cheese dressing for extra creaminess.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check that your buffalo sauce and dressings are gluten-free as well.
What’s the best chicken to use?
Rotisserie chicken is a huge time-saver and always tasty, but any cooked, shredded chicken breast or thigh will work perfectly in this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe.
Can I bake this pasta for a crispy top?
Definitely! After mixing everything together, transfer to a baking dish, top with more cheddar and mozzarella, and broil for 2 to 3 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can assemble the pasta and sauce a day ahead and refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat gently, add a splash of milk if needed, and finish with fresh garnishes.
Final Thoughts
If you love bold, comforting flavors, this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. It’s quick, easy, and full of personality—so grab your skillet and treat yourself and your favorite people to a spicy, cheesy pasta night they’ll never forget!
Print
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Buffalo Chicken Pasta recipe is a deliciously spicy and creamy dish perfect for an easy weeknight dinner. Made with tender shredded chicken, tangy buffalo wing sauce, and a blend of cheeses, it’s a kid-friendly American main course that combines the bold flavors of buffalo chicken with comforting pasta.
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 12 oz penne or rotini pasta
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing
Cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese
Seasoning and Garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the penne or rotini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Prepare Sauce: In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Then stir in the buffalo wing sauce and softened cream cheese, whisking continuously until the cream cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
- Add Dressing: Stir in ranch or blue cheese dressing to the sauce mixture until well combined, creating a creamy and tangy base for the pasta.
- Combine Ingredients: Fold in the shredded chicken, cooked pasta, shredded cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese into the sauce. Stir everything together until the cheese melts and the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.
- Simmer and Serve: Reduce the heat to low and let the pasta simmer for 2–3 minutes until heated through. If desired, garnish with chopped green onions or parsley. Serve hot for a comforting, cheesy meal.
Notes
- For added texture and cheesy crust, transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and broil for 2–3 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Rotisserie chicken works great for convenience and flavor.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less buffalo wing sauce depending on your preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
