Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Buffalo Chicken Pasta is the perfect blend of creamy, spicy, and cheesy flavors, making it a must-try for anyone who loves bold, comforting dishes. Tender chicken, spicy buffalo sauce, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce come together to create an easy, satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
• Creamy and Spicy – The perfect balance of heat and richness.
• Great for Meal Prep – Tastes even better the next day!
• Customizable – Easily adjust the spice level or add extra toppings.
• Crowd-Pleasing – A guaranteed hit for buffalo chicken lovers.

this Recipe

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pasta of choice (penne, rotini, or rigatoni work best)
• Cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
• Buffalo sauce
• Cream cheese
• Ranch or blue cheese dressing
• Heavy cream or milk
• Cheddar cheese (shredded)
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Salt and pepper
• Butter
• Green onions (for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta – Boil the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce – In a large skillet, melt butter and stir in garlic powder, onion powder, buffalo sauce, cream cheese, and heavy cream. Stir until smooth.
3. Add the Chicken – Mix in the cooked chicken, letting it soak up the flavors.
4. Combine Everything – Add the drained pasta to the skillet and stir to coat in the buffalo sauce mixture.
5. Melt the Cheese – Sprinkle in shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
6. Serve – Garnish with green onions and serve hot!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Baked Buffalo Chicken Pasta – Transfer to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake at 375°F for 10 minutes.
• Spicier Version – Add extra buffalo sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Milder Version – Reduce the buffalo sauce and add more cream or cheese.
• Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free pasta and ensure other ingredients are gluten-free.
• Extra Toppings – Add crispy bacon, diced tomatoes, or blue cheese crumbles.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stove with a splash of milk to restore creaminess, or microwave in 30-second intervals.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut for this recipe.

What’s the best pasta shape to use?

Penne, rotini, or rigatoni work best as they hold the sauce well.

How do I make this less spicy?

Reduce the buffalo sauce and add more cream or cheese.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat with a splash of milk.

What cheese works best for this recipe?

Cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix of both works great for a creamy texture.

Can I add veggies?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, spinach, or diced tomatoes are great additions.

What’s the best way to make this extra creamy?

Use full-fat cream cheese and an extra splash of heavy cream.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours.

Can I use a different type of sauce?

Yes, ranch-based buffalo sauce or a homemade buffalo mix works well.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

It can be! Just reduce the buffalo sauce and add extra cheese.

Conclusion

Buffalo Chicken Pasta is a creamy, spicy, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal, this recipe delivers bold flavor in every bite. Try it today and enjoy the ultimate comfort food!

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