ADVERTISEMENT

Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Buffalo Chicken Pasta combines the creamy indulgence of comfort food with the zesty, fiery flavor of buffalo sauce, making it a meal that satisfies every craving. This one-pot wonder is a true lifesaver for busy weeknights, offering hearty portions with minimal cleanup. Whether you’re a fan of spicy dishes or just love a good, creamy pasta, this recipe has something for everyone. Plus, it’s versatile enough to use fresh, rotisserie, or leftover chicken, making it an excellent way to repurpose ingredients you already have.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Buffalo Chicken Pasta

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Spicy, creamy, and utterly delicious—this Buffalo Chicken Pasta is a flavor explosion in every bite! 🔥🍗🍝 #BuffaloChickenPasta #SpicyAndSavory #PastaPerfection #ComfortFood #CreamyDelight #FoodieFave #CheeseLover #EasyDinner #WeeknightMeals #FlavorBomb

  • Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

Scale

Protein and Sauce Base:

  • 1 large boneless skinless chicken breast (1 lb.)The star of the dish, providing tender, shredded protein.
  • ½ cup blue cheese dressing (or ranch)Adds creaminess and tanginess to the chicken.

Aromatics and Vegetables:

  • 2 Tablespoons butter, dividedEnhances the richness of the sauce.
  • ½ cup yellow onion, dicedA subtle, savory sweetness.
  • 1 stick celery, dicedAdds a slight crunch and balances the heat.
  • 3 cloves garlic, mincedFor that unmistakable aromatic kick.

Liquid Ingredients:

  • 14.5 oz. diced tomatoes, undrained (1 can)Provides a tangy base for the sauce.
  • 4 cups chicken brothHelps cook the pasta and builds flavor.
  • ½ cup buffalo sauceThe spicy star ingredient that gives the dish its signature kick.

Pasta and Cheeses:

  • 1 lb. penne pastaHolds the sauce well and offers a satisfying bite.
  • 8 oz. cream cheese, softened and cubedMakes the sauce irresistibly creamy.
  • 1.5 cups cheddar cheese, shreddedSharp and flavorful, this melts beautifully into the sauce.
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shreddedAdds stretchy, gooey goodness.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing the chicken breast in a pot of water. Bring to a gentle boil and cook for about 15 minutes until fully cooked. A gentle boil ensures the chicken remains tender, not tough. Remove the chicken and shred it using two forks. Toss the shredded chicken with blue cheese dressing and set aside.

Pro Tip: Add 1–2 chicken bouillon cubes to the boiling water for an extra flavor boost.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

In a large, high-walled skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions and celery, cooking for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release its aroma.

3. Cook the Pasta

Pour the undrained diced tomatoes and chicken broth into the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the penne pasta. Submerge the pasta into the liquid and bring it back to a boil. Cover the skillet and cook for 10–13 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta should be cooked al dente.

Pro Tip: Test the pasta for doneness before proceeding to the next step.

4. Create the Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the buffalo sauce, cream cheese, and shredded cheeses. Gently mix with a silicone spatula until the cheeses melt and combine into a creamy, flavorful sauce. Don’t worry if the sauce seems thin initially—it will thicken as it stands.

5. Add the Chicken

Fold the shredded chicken and a pinch of red pepper flakes into the sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer for a couple of minutes, letting the flavors meld together.

6. Finish with Butter (Optional)

For an extra smooth and luxurious finish, swirl 2 tablespoons of cold butter into the warm sauce. This chef’s technique, known as “Monter au Beurre,” adds a velvety texture to the dish.

Notes

  • Vegetable Boost:
    Add chopped spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli to increase the dish’s nutritional value.
  • Baked Version:
    Transfer the cooked pasta to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake until golden brown.
  • Make It Lighter:
    Use reduced-fat cream cheese and cheddar, and opt for whole-grain pasta.
  • Author: Rosa
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes

In this article, we’ll guide you through creating this delicious meal step-by-step. We’ll also explore substitutions, variations, and serving tips to make this dish truly your own.

Ingredients Breakdown

For 6 servings, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Protein and Sauce Base:

  • 1 large boneless skinless chicken breast (1 lb.)
    The star of the dish, providing tender, shredded protein.
  • ½ cup blue cheese dressing (or ranch)
    Adds creaminess and tanginess to the chicken.

Aromatics and Vegetables:

  • 2 Tablespoons butter, divided
    Enhances the richness of the sauce.
  • ½ cup yellow onion, diced
    A subtle, savory sweetness.
  • 1 stick celery, diced
    Adds a slight crunch and balances the heat.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
    For that unmistakable aromatic kick.

Liquid Ingredients:

  • 14.5 oz. diced tomatoes, undrained (1 can)
    Provides a tangy base for the sauce.
  • 4 cups chicken broth
    Helps cook the pasta and builds flavor.
  • ½ cup buffalo sauce
    The spicy star ingredient that gives the dish its signature kick.

Pasta and Cheeses:

  • 1 lb. penne pasta
    Holds the sauce well and offers a satisfying bite.
  • 8 oz. cream cheese, softened and cubed
    Makes the sauce irresistibly creamy.
  • 1.5 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
    Sharp and flavorful, this melts beautifully into the sauce.
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
    Adds stretchy, gooey goodness.

Optional:

  • 1 pinch red pepper flakes
    For an extra layer of heat.
  • 2 Tablespoons cold butter
    For a silky finish to the sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing the chicken breast in a pot of water. Bring to a gentle boil and cook for about 15 minutes until fully cooked. A gentle boil ensures the chicken remains tender, not tough. Remove the chicken and shred it using two forks. Toss the shredded chicken with blue cheese dressing and set aside.

Pro Tip: Add 1–2 chicken bouillon cubes to the boiling water for an extra flavor boost.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

In a large, high-walled skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions and celery, cooking for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release its aroma.

3. Cook the Pasta

Pour the undrained diced tomatoes and chicken broth into the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the penne pasta. Submerge the pasta into the liquid and bring it back to a boil. Cover the skillet and cook for 10–13 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta should be cooked al dente.

Pro Tip: Test the pasta for doneness before proceeding to the next step.

4. Create the Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the buffalo sauce, cream cheese, and shredded cheeses. Gently mix with a silicone spatula until the cheeses melt and combine into a creamy, flavorful sauce. Don’t worry if the sauce seems thin initially—it will thicken as it stands.

5. Add the Chicken

Fold the shredded chicken and a pinch of red pepper flakes into the sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer for a couple of minutes, letting the flavors meld together.

6. Finish with Butter (Optional)

For an extra smooth and luxurious finish, swirl 2 tablespoons of cold butter into the warm sauce. This chef’s technique, known as “Monter au Beurre,” adds a velvety texture to the dish.

Flavors, Textures, and Aromas

This Buffalo Chicken Pasta boasts a rich and creamy texture, complemented by the al dente pasta’s firmness. The cream cheese and shredded cheddar create a luscious sauce that coats every bite, while the mozzarella adds a melty, stretchy element.

The bold heat of buffalo sauce is balanced by the tangy blue cheese (or ranch) dressing, making it appealing even to those who aren’t spice lovers. Aromatics like garlic, onions, and celery provide depth, while the diced tomatoes lend a subtle acidity. Together, these flavors create a harmonious medley that’s both comforting and exciting.

Tips for Success

  1. Room Temperature Cheeses:
    Soften cream cheese and let shredded cheeses come to room temperature before adding them to the pasta. This ensures a smoother, more even melt.
  2. Monitor the Pasta:
    Stir occasionally while the pasta cooks to prevent sticking. Avoid overcooking to maintain its structure.
  3. Adjust Spice Levels:
    Customize the heat by reducing or increasing the buffalo sauce and red pepper flakes.
  4. Leftovers:
    This dish reheats beautifully. Add a splash of chicken broth or milk when reheating to maintain the creamy consistency.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Chicken: Swap with turkey, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
  • Buffalo Sauce: Replace with barbecue sauce for a milder, sweeter version.
  • Blue Cheese Dressing: Use ranch if blue cheese isn’t your favorite.

Variations

  1. Vegetable Boost:
    Add chopped spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli to increase the dish’s nutritional value.
  2. Baked Version:
    Transfer the cooked pasta to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake until golden brown.
  3. Make It Lighter:
    Use reduced-fat cream cheese and cheddar, and opt for whole-grain pasta.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve Buffalo Chicken Pasta with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
  • A refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade pairs beautifully with the dish’s spice.

Conclusion

Buffalo Chicken Pasta is a dish that brings bold flavors and creamy textures together in a way that’s truly unforgettable. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a casual get-together, it’s sure to impress. Its one-pot preparation makes it a breeze to cook, and the customizable ingredients ensure it can suit any taste or occasion.

ADVERTISEMENT

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

ADVERTISEMENT