Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Buffalo Chicken Pasta is the perfect fusion of comfort food and bold flavors. The creamy sauce helps balance the spicy heat of the buffalo sauce, while the tender chicken and pasta make it a filling and satisfying dish. It’s incredibly easy to prepare and can be made in just one pot, which means fewer dishes and more time to enjoy the meal. Whether you’re a buffalo sauce lover or new to the flavor, this dish will quickly become a favorite for anyone who enjoys a little kick in their meal.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)

• 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or any pasta you prefer)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

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

Directions

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until softened.

3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, until fragrant.

4. Stir in the buffalo sauce and heavy cream, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

5. Add the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir until it is fully coated with the sauce. Let it cook for an additional 3-4 minutes to heat the chicken through.

6. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled blue cheese (if using). Continue to stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce becomes creamy.

7. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated in the creamy buffalo sauce.

8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

9. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes

• Cooking Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Make it spicier: If you love more heat, increase the amount of buffalo sauce or add some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.

• Add veggies: You can add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or even celery (for crunch) to bring in more flavor and texture.

• Use different cheese: Swap out the cheddar and blue cheese for mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack if you prefer.

• Make it lighter: For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with Greek yogurt or light cream cheese.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover buffalo chicken pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great option for saving time and will work perfectly in this dish.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any pasta shape will work, but penne, rotini, or rigatoni are ideal for holding the sauce.

3. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more buffalo sauce, cayenne pepper, or a few dashes of hot sauce to intensify the heat.

4. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the buffalo sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it when ready to add the chicken and pasta.

5. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or almond milk and use dairy-free cheese for a dairy-free version.

6. Can I use sour cream instead of heavy cream?

Yes, sour cream can be substituted for heavy cream to give the sauce a tangy flavor. However, it may not be as creamy, so add a little bit of chicken broth if you need to adjust the texture.

7. How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?

To avoid mushy pasta, make sure not to overcook it. Drain the pasta once it’s al dente and add it to the sauce right away.

8. Can I freeze buffalo chicken pasta?

While this dish is best fresh, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it up on the stove, adding a little extra cream or milk to help with the sauce consistency.

9. Can I add blue cheese to the sauce?

Absolutely! If you love blue cheese, you can melt it directly into the sauce along with the cheddar cheese to give the dish even more flavor.

10. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You can substitute the chicken with plant-based protein options like tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version, or use roasted vegetables for a flavorful alternative.

Conclusion

Buffalo Chicken Pasta is a fun, flavorful, and satisfying dish that combines the creamy comfort of pasta with the bold heat of buffalo sauce. With tender chicken, creamy cheese, and the perfect amount of spice, this meal is ideal for those who love a little heat with their comfort food. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special treat for your taste buds, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your rotation.