If you’re looking for a dish that perfectly blends the fiery kick of buffalo sauce with the creamy comfort of pasta, this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s a deliciously cozy, crowd-pleasing meal that brings together tender chicken, luscious cheese, and just the right amount of spice to brighten up any weeknight dinner or casual get-together. Trust me, once you make this the first time, it’ll quickly become a favorite go-to recipe when you want something hearty yet irresistibly flavorful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key to nailing the perfect Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe. Each item plays a simple but essential role, from adding richness and tang to balancing spice and texture with freshness.
- 12 ounces pasta (penne or rotini): Choose your favorite shape, perfect for holding onto that creamy buffalo sauce.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds silkiness and depth when sautéing the garlic.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Fresh garlic boosts the flavor and aroma remarkably.
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or chopped): The protein star of the dish, best when tender and ready to soak up the sauce.
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce: This is where all the vibrant heat comes from—choose your favorite brand or homemade style.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Provides richness that tames the heat and makes the sauce luxuriously smooth.
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened): Adds an extra creamy tanginess that complements the buffalo flavor beautifully.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey, cheesy goodness that makes every bite comforting.
- 1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles (optional): For that classic buffalo flavor punch and a bit of boldness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essentials to brighten and balance the sauce perfectly.
- Chopped green onions and parsley for garnish: Fresh herbs add color and a subtle freshness as the final touch.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to the package instructions until just al dente. This ensures the pasta holds its shape and texture in the creamy sauce. Once cooked, drain it well and set it aside, so it’s ready to be tossed in all that buffalo goodness.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until shimmering. Add the minced garlic and cook for about a minute until it releases its mouthwatering aroma. This step is crucial because it lays the flavor foundation before adding the tender cooked chicken and buffalo wing sauce, which give the dish its signature heat and tangy punch.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Buffalo Sauce
Lower the heat and gently stir in the softened cream cheese, allowing it to melt smoothly into the pan. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring often. This silky sauce is what turns the buffalo chicken pasta into a rich and satisfying comfort meal that’s impossible to resist.
Step 4: Melt the Cheddar and Season
Sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until the cheese melts completely into the sauce, creating that irresistible cheesy texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste, which is key to balancing the bold flavors without overpowering the delicate creaminess.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained pasta straight into the skillet and toss everything together until each piece of pasta is beautifully coated in the buffalo sauce. Let it cook for a couple more minutes to ensure the pasta warms through and soaks up those delightful flavors, making every forkful a perfect bite.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finish by topping the dish with blue cheese crumbles for an optional but authentic buffalo flavor boost. Garnish with freshly chopped green onions and parsley to add a pop of color and freshness that brightens the rich dish. Serve it warm and watch everyone devour it in no time.
How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishes are not just for looks! Toss some chopped green onions and fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and a delicate crunch that contrasts the creamy sauce perfectly. Blue cheese crumbles are a fan favorite, adding that signature sharpness to echo the buffalo wing experience.
Side Dishes
Buffalo Chicken Pasta pairs wonderfully with lighter sides such as a crisp garden salad or crunchy garlic bread. The salad provides a refreshing counterpoint to the dish’s spice and creaminess, while garlic bread offers an extra layer of indulgent, buttery comfort.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe in individual ramekins or hollowed-out bell peppers for a colorful and inviting presentation. You can also sprinkle some toasted breadcrumbs or crushed tortilla chips over the top for a crunchy surprise that takes texture to the next level.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This pasta holds up beautifully in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. It’s best enjoyed within three to four days for peak flavor and freshness. The sauce may thicken upon chilling, so a quick stir and gentle reheating bring it back to creamy perfection.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe, but keep in mind the cream-based sauce may change texture slightly. Freeze in a sealed container for up to two months, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best taste and consistency.
Reheating
When it’s time to reheat, use a gentle stovetop method over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Microwaving works too, but stirring every minute helps the dish reheat evenly without drying out. This way, you’ll enjoy it almost as freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar and cream cheese make the sauce creamy and flavorful, feel free to experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for added spice. Blue cheese crumbles add that traditional buffalo wing vibe, but they’re optional.
Is rotisserie chicken a good shortcut for this recipe?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver and works perfectly here. It’s already cooked and seasoned just right, which makes preparing this recipe quicker and easier without sacrificing taste.
How spicy is this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe?
The heat level depends on the buffalo wing sauce you choose. You can make it mild, medium, or extra spicy. For more heat, add a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper alongside the buffalo sauce.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
To keep the spirit of the Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe without chicken, try substituting cooked cauliflower florets or crispy tofu. They soak up the buffalo sauce beautifully and keep the dish hearty and satisfying.
What pasta works best in this recipe?
Penne and rotini are ideal because their shapes hold onto the buffalo cream sauce well, but feel free to use fusilli, rigatoni, or any sturdy pasta you love. Just ensure it’s cooked al dente for the best texture.
Final Thoughts
This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe is one of those dishes that feels both indulgent and homey, perfect for cozy nights when you want a flavorful meal with minimal fuss. Its combination of creamy, cheesy, and spicy hits all the right notes, making it a sure crowd-pleaser. Give it a try and watch it fast become a staple in your dinner rotation—you won’t regret it!
Print
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Buffalo Chicken Pasta recipe combines tender pasta with creamy buffalo sauce, shredded chicken, and a blend of cheeses for a spicy, comforting main dish perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Pasta and Protein
- 12 ounces pasta (penne or rotini)
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or chopped)
Sauces and Dairy
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles (optional)
Seasoning and Garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions and parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the cooked chicken and buffalo wing sauce, combining well.
- Create the Creamy Sauce: Lower the heat and add the softened cream cheese to the skillet, stirring until melted and smooth. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add Cheese and Seasoning: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss it in the buffalo sauce to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to heat through.
- Garnish and Serve: If desired, sprinkle with blue cheese crumbles and garnish with chopped green onions and parsley. Serve the pasta warm.
Notes
- For extra heat, stir in a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper.
- Rotisserie chicken works well for convenience and adds great flavor.
- Serve with a side salad or garlic bread to complete the meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
