Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe

If you crave big, bold flavors and creamy comfort in every bite, this Buffalo Chicken Pasta is about to be your new addiction! It’s a cheesy, saucy, and just-spicy-enough fusion of classic Buffalo chicken and weeknight-friendly pasta bake—all coming together in one irresistible skillet.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Buffalo Chicken Pasta is in its simple, straightforward ingredient list: everything plays a starring role! Each one comes together to create a dish that’s rich and creamy, extra satisfying, and bursting with that Buffalo-style kick.

• Chicken breast (1 lb.): The hearty protein base—boil gently for ultimate tenderness and easy shredding.
• Blue cheese dressing (½ cup): Adds tangy creaminess and that classic Buffalo touch. Ranch works too for a milder edge!
• Butter (2 tablespoons, divided): For sautéing veggies and giving your sauce its final glossy finish.
• Yellow onion (½ cup, diced): A sweet and savory flavor foundation.
• Celery (1 stick, diced): Adds signature Buffalo crunch and a pop of fresh, herby flavor.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Gives savory depth—let it bloom in the pan for best results.
• Diced tomatoes (14.5 oz. can, undrained): The tangy tomatoes infuse the sauce with subtle sweetness and extra juiciness.
• Chicken broth (4 cups): Cooks the noodles and creates a flavorful, hearty base for the sauce.
• Penne (1 lb.): Holds up to the creamy, cheesy sauce and tender chicken.
• Buffalo sauce (½ cup): Brings that signature kick—add more or less to taste!
• Cream cheese (8 oz., cubed and softened): For a seriously velvety sauce that hugs every bite.
• Cheddar cheese (1.5 cups, shredded): Melty, bold, and essential for chewiness and flavor.
• Mozzarella cheese (1 cup, shredded): For extra stretch and mild cheesy goodness.
• Red pepper flakes (pinch, optional): Toss in if you want an extra hot little surprise.
• Cold butter (2 tablespoons, optional): Swirl in at the end for a chef-level, ultra-luxurious sauce.

Variations

This Buffalo Chicken Pasta is a playground for mix-ins and swaps—so don’t be afraid to make it your own! Change up the spice, skip an ingredient, or adjust to your family’s needs. Here are a few delicious ideas to get you started:

• Swap Ranch for Blue Cheese: Not a fan of blue cheese? Use ranch dressing for a classic American twist with a touch of buttermilk tang.
• Make it Vegetarian: Use plant-based chicken or skip the meat and add extra veggies like roasted cauliflower, bell peppers, or spinach.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use your favorite gluten-free penne or pasta and double-check your Buffalo sauce is GF-certified.
• Turn Up (or Down) the Heat: Adjust the Buffalo sauce and red pepper flakes to suit your desired spice level—add more for fiery, less for family-friendly!
• Cheese Swap: Mix in Monterey jack, pepper jack, or gouda for a totally different cheesy experience.

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Poach and Shred the Chicken

Start by placing your chicken breast in a pot of water (add a couple bouillon cubes for major flavor points!). Bring the water to a gentle boil—not a rolling one!—and cook for about 15 minutes, just until the chicken is cooked through and easy to shred. Remove from the water and use two forks to pull it apart. Toss that deliciously warm shredded chicken with blue cheese (or ranch) dressing, letting the flavor soak in while you prep the rest.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

In a large, high-sided skillet, melt one tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add your diced onions and celery for that classic Buffalo crunch and flavor base. Cook until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes, then toss in the garlic and sauté just until aromatic—your kitchen will start smelling heavenly!

Step 3: Cook the Pasta Right in the Sauce

Add the can of diced tomatoes (with their juice) and pour in the chicken broth. Bring this to a boil, then stir in your penne. Make sure the pasta is fully submerged for even cooking. Cover and simmer for 10–13 minutes, stirring occasionally so nothing sticks, until the pasta is just al dente and the liquid is mostly absorbed but still saucy. (Don’t overcook! The pasta will keep cooking in the sauce.)

Step 4: Make It Creamy & Cheesy

Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the Buffalo sauce, cubed cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and shredded mozzarella. Stir gently until the cream cheese melts and the whole thing turns insanely creamy. It might look thin at first—don’t worry! The sauce will thicken as it stands.

Step 5: Add Chicken & Finish the Sauce

Fold in your shredded chicken and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired. As the sauce thickens up, taste and adjust the seasoning—want it spicier? Add more Buffalo! Ready for fancy? Swirl in a couple tablespoons of cold butter (the French call this “Monter au Beurre”) right at the end for an ultra-smooth, glossed-up sauce that clings luxuriously to every noodle.

How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

Buffalo Chicken Pasta loves a little extra love on top! Try sprinkling sliced green onions for a pop of freshness, a flurry of extra shredded cheddar or mozzarella, or a handful of blue cheese crumbles for a bold zing. For added heat (and color), a final dusting of red pepper flakes is always welcome.

Side Dishes

Balance the creamy, spicy richness with cool, crisp sides! A crunchy green salad with ranch or blue cheese, some carrot and celery sticks (Buffalo wing classics!), or a platter of roasted broccoli or green beans are all wonderful. Warm garlic bread or a hunk of crusty baguette will scoop up every last drop of sauce, too.

Creative Ways to Present

Lean into the fun by serving Buffalo Chicken Pasta in individual ramekins for a dinner party, or spoon it into a bread bowl for game day. For casual nights, serve right from the skillet for that rustic, family-style feel (and fewer dishes!). Or, sprinkle with extra cheese and broil for a bubbly, golden finish that’ll wow everyone at the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftover Buffalo Chicken Pasta cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen even more overnight, making leftovers absolutely crave-worthy.

Freezing

This pasta can be frozen, though keep in mind the sauce may lose a bit of creaminess after thawing. Portion into airtight containers or freezer bags, squeezing out excess air, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

For best results, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to bring back the creaminess. Microwave works too; just stir halfway through and heat in bursts so the cheese stays silky and not grainy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Buffalo Chicken Pasta, it’s bound to earn a regular spot on your table. Whether you’re craving comfort, hosting friends, or just need a fun weeknight dinner, this dish always brings the creamy, spicy, cheesy joy. Grab your ingredients and let’s get cozy in the kitchen together—you’re going to love it!

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