Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe

A Love Story with Buffalo Chicken Pasta

There’s something magical about comfort food, right? That one dish that makes you feel warm inside, no matter how tough the day has been. If you love creamy, cheesy pasta with a spicy kick, then this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe is about to become your new obsession.

I still remember the first time I had buffalo chicken pasta it was a cold winter evening, and I was craving something rich, spicy, and satisfying. A friend introduced me to this masterpiece, and from the first bite, I was hooked. The tender chicken, the creamy buffalo sauce, and the perfectly cooked pasta it was love at first taste. And now, I want to share this incredible recipe with you, so you can experience the same joy and warmth it brings.

In this article, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about making Buffalo Chicken Pasta from ingredients and step-by-step instructions to common mistakes, storage tips, and delicious variations. So grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients for Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Before we start cooking, let’s make sure we have everything we need. Here’s a breakdown of the essential ingredients:

Main Ingredients

Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor

• Bacon bits – Adds a smoky, crispy texture
• Jalapeños – For an extra spicy kick
• Crushed red pepper – If you love it even hotter
• Parmesan cheese – Because more cheese is always better

Now that we have everything ready, let’s dive into making the most delicious Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe step by step.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Cooking Buffalo Chicken Pasta is simple, but there are a few key steps to get that perfect balance of flavors. Let’s break it down:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite).
3. Drain the pasta and set it aside. Toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, and onion powder.
3. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F (75°C)).
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Buffalo Sauce

1. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low and melt the remaining 1 tbsp butter.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
4. Add the cream cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
5. Pour in the buffalo sauce and heavy cream, stirring constantly to combine.
6. Add cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked pasta to the buffalo sauce, stirring well to coat every piece.
2. Toss in the sliced chicken and mix everything together.
3. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing all the flavors to blend.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Sprinkle with chopped green onions for a pop of color and freshness.
2. Drizzle with ranch or blue cheese dressing for extra creaminess (optional).
3. Serve hot and enjoy your Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe!

Common Problems and How to Fix Them

1. Is Your Pasta Too Spicy?

• If the buffalo sauce is too strong, mix in more heavy cream or cream cheese to balance the heat.
• A drizzle of ranch dressing can also help mellow out the spice.

2. Sauce Too Thick or Too Thin?

• If it’s too thick, add a little more chicken broth or milk to loosen it up.
• If it’s too thin, let it simmer a few minutes longer to reduce.

3. Chicken Too Dry?

• Make sure you don’t overcook the chicken. Use a meat thermometer and remove it as soon as it reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Let the chicken rest before slicing to keep the juices inside.

Best Side Dishes to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Pasta

If you want to turn this dish into a full meal, here are some perfect side dishes:

Variations and Customizations

Want to put your own twist on this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe? Try these fun variations:

1. Healthy Version (Low-Calorie or Keto)

• Use zucchini noodles or cauliflower pasta instead of regular pasta.
• Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt to cut calories.

2. Dairy-Free or Vegan Alternative

• Replace cream cheese with cashew cream and use vegan cheese.
• Use jackfruit or tofu instead of chicken for a plant-based option.

3. Baked Buffalo Chicken Pasta

• After mixing everything, transfer to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes for a golden, bubbly finish.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips

One of the best things about this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe is that it’s perfect for meal prepping. You can make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week without it losing its deliciousness.

How to Store Leftovers Properly

To keep your pasta fresh and tasty, follow these storage tips:

Pro Tip:

• If you plan to freeze, leave out the cheese topping and add it fresh when reheating.
• Store pasta and sauce separately to avoid mushy noodles.

Reheating Without Losing Flavor

Reheating pasta can be tricky you don’t want it to dry out or get mushy. Here’s how to keep it tasting just as good as fresh!

Best Ways to Reheat Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Pro Tip:

• If your pasta seems dry, add a little extra buffalo sauce, cream, or broth while reheating.
• If using the microwave, stir every 30 seconds to heat evenly.

Your Buffalo Chicken Pasta Questions Answered

Still have questions? Let’s tackle some of the most common ones!

1. Can I Make Buffalo Chicken Pasta Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! If you’re meal prepping, you can cook everything in advance, store it properly, and reheat when needed. For the freshest taste, add the cheese topping and garnishes just before serving.

2. What’s the Best Hot Sauce for This Recipe?

Frank’s Red Hot is the classic choice for buffalo flavor, but you can also use:

• Texas Pete for a milder kick
• Tabasco for a tangier taste
• Sriracha for a hint of sweetness

3. How Do I Make It Less Spicy for Kids?

If you’re serving this to kids or spice-sensitive eaters:

• Use mild buffalo sauce or mix it with ranch dressing.
• Reduce the amount of buffalo sauce and add more cream cheese for a smoother taste.
• Serve with extra ranch or blue cheese to cool it down.

4. Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?

Yes! While penne, rotini, or rigatoni work best, you can also use:

• Spaghetti or fettuccine for a creamier texture
• Gluten-free pasta for a healthier option
• Macaroni to turn it into Buffalo Chicken Mac & Cheese

5. What’s the Best Way to Make It Healthier?

If you’re looking to cut calories, try:

• Using whole wheat or veggie pasta
• Swapping heavy cream for Greek yogurt
• Using grilled chicken instead of fried

Want More Easy Chicken Recipes?

If you love creamy and flavorful meals like this, don’t miss out on these tasty dishes from our site:

• Try our Creamy Grilled Chicken Bites for a smoky twist on comfort food.
• Craving more pasta? This Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta will have your taste buds dancing.
• For crispy dinner options, our Parmesan Crusted Chicken are a must-try.

Why You Need This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe in Your Life

Let’s be honest few dishes can match the perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and cheesy goodness that this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe delivers. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a potluck, or meal prep, it’s easy, delicious, and guaranteed to impress.

Now that you’ve mastered the recipe, go ahead make it your own, try new variations, and most importantly, enjoy every bite!

Happy Cooking With Mouny Chef ❤️!

Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe

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• Author: Mouny
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

A creamy, spicy, and cheesy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe that’s perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner. This dish combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich buffalo sauce for the ultimate comfort meal. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or meal prep, it’s sure to satisfy your cravings!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

12 oz (about 3 cups) pasta (penne, rotini, or rigatoni)

½ cup buffalo sauce (Frank’s Red Hot recommended)

4 oz cream cheese (softened)

1 cup heavy cream

1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

3 cloves garlic (minced)

1 tsp onion powder

½ tsp paprika

Salt and black pepper (to taste)

2 tbsp butter

1 tbsp olive oil

½ cup chicken broth

¼ cup ranch or blue cheese dressing (optional)

2 tbsp chopped green onions (for garnish)

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Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.

Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, and onion powder. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F). Remove from skillet, let rest, then slice into bite-sized pieces.

In the same skillet, melt the remaining 1 tbsp butter over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits. Add cream cheese and stir until melted and smooth.

Stir in buffalo sauce and heavy cream. Add shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until fully melted.

Add cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Stir in sliced chicken and let everything cook for 2-3 more minutes.

Garnish with chopped green onions and drizzle with ranch or blue cheese dressing if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

For a healthier version, use whole wheat pasta and substitute Greek yogurt for heavy cream.

Want extra spice? Add crushed red pepper or diced jalapeños.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

To reheat, add a splash of milk or chicken broth when warming up on the stovetop for the best texture.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 650 kcal
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 1300mg
• Fat: 35g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 38g
• Cholesterol: 105mg

Keywords: Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe, Spicy Chicken Pasta, Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta, Easy Buffalo Chicken Pasta