If you’re a fan of bold flavors and comforting dishes, then this Buffalo Chicken Pasta is the perfect recipe for you! Combining tender chicken, spicy buffalo sauce, creamy cheese, and pasta, this dish brings together some of the best flavors in a delightful and hearty meal.

Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner, a game day feast, or simply to indulge in your cravings, this recipe is guaranteed to please everyone at the table.

Let’s dive into the deliciousness that awaits!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Buffalo Chicken Pasta is not just another pasta dish; it’s a flavor explosion.

The combination of spicy buffalo sauce, creamy cream cheese, and melted cheese creates a richness that elevates this meal from simple to extraordinary.

This dish is quick to prepare and uses ingredients that you may already have in your pantry.

Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover or rotisserie chicken!

Ingredients

1 pound (450 grams) cooked chicken, shredded or diced (leftovers or rotisserie chicken work great!)
2 tablespoons olive oil
½ medium yellow onion, diced
2 stalks celery, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
4 cups (1 liter) low sodium chicken broth
1 can (14.5 ounces or 400 grams) diced tomatoes
1 pound (450 grams) pasta of choice
½ cup (135 grams) Buffalo hot sauce
8 ounces (225 grams) cream cheese, cubed and softened to room temperature
9 ounces (255 grams) shredded cheddar cheese (about 2 cups)
6 ounces (170 grams) shredded mozzarella cheese (about 1 ½ cups)
Ranch or blue cheese dressing for serving
Crumble blue cheese or feta for serving

How To Make Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Sauté The Vegetables

In a large skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

Add the diced onion and celery, cooking until soft, about 4-5 minutes.

Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

Step 2: Combine Chicken and Spices

Add the shredded or diced chicken to the skillet, followed by the kosher salt and black pepper.

Stir well to combine, letting the chicken absorb the flavors of the sautéed vegetables.

Step 3: Add Broth and Tomatoes

Pour in the low sodium chicken broth and the can of diced tomatoes (including the juice).

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Cook The Pasta

While the chicken and vegetable mixture simmers, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.

Drain the pasta but reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Once the chicken broth mixture has simmered and the flavors melded, reduce the heat to low.

Stir in the Buffalo hot sauce and add the cream cheese, stirring until fully combined and creamy.

Step 6: Add Pasta and Cheese

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it in the creamy sauce.

If the pasta seems too dry, gradually stir in some of the reserved pasta water until reaching your desired consistency.

Next, fold in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, mixing until melted and evenly distributed.

Step 7: Serve

Serve the Buffalo Chicken Pasta hot, topped with a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing and a sprinkle of crumbled blue cheese or feta for an added punch.

Enjoy!

Expert Tips

Using rotisserie chicken can save time and add great flavor!
Feel free to adjust the amount of Buffalo sauce based on your heat preference.
For a nutritious twist, consider adding chopped spinach or kale when mixing in the chicken.
Make sure to stir continuously when adding cream cheese to avoid lumps.

Variations and Customizations

Swap out the pasta for whole grain or gluten-free options to fit your dietary needs.
Add in vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or broccoli for extra nutrients.
Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for an additional kick of flavor.
For a lighter version, substitute half of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt.

How to Store Leftovers

Buffalo Chicken Pasta stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, you can warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop.

If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of chicken broth or water to help bring it back to life.

FAQ

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with plant-based chicken products or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

Is there a way to make this dish lower in calories?

You can reduce the amount of cream cheese and opt for reduced-fat cheese options.

Additionally, using whole grain pasta can contribute to a healthier choice.

Can I freeze Buffalo Chicken Pasta?

Yes, you can freeze the pasta.

Make sure to cool the pasta completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.

It will keep well for up to 2 months.

Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What can I serve with Buffalo Chicken Pasta?

This pasta dish can be paired with a fresh green salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.

It’s also fantastic as a filling for wraps or served as a dip with tortilla chips for casual gatherings!

Conclusion

Buffalo Chicken Pasta is a delightful combination of flavors that brings comfort and satisfaction in every bite.

With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and zesty kick, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Don’t hesitate to customize it to your taste! Whip up a batch today and enjoy the explosion of flavors that come together in this unique pasta dish.

Happy cooking!

Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Author: sarah
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

A bold and comforting Buffalo Chicken Pasta, packed with spicy buffalo sauce, creamy cheese, and tender chicken, making it the perfect meal for any occasion.

Instructions

In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add diced onion and celery, cooking until soft, about 4-5 minutes.
Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
Add shredded or diced chicken, kosher salt, and black pepper, stirring to combine.
Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes (including juice), bringing to a gentle simmer for 5 minutes.
Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.
Reduce heat to low, stir in Buffalo hot sauce and cream cheese, mixing until creamy.
Add cooked pasta to skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce.
Fold in shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted.
Serve hot, drizzled with ranch or blue cheese dressing and topped with crumbled blue cheese or feta.