Buffalo Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of buffalo chicken with the comforting texture of pasta. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also incredibly flavorful, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a fun twist on your traditional pasta meal. You can easily customize it to suit your family’s tastes, whether you prefer extra spice or a creamier texture!
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 480
Protein: 34g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fat: 24g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 800mg
Why Make Buffalo Chicken Pasta
Buffalo Chicken Pasta is a fantastic option for those looking for a quick and satisfying meal. Not only does it pack a flavorful punch with its spicy buffalo sauce, but its creamy base also provides a comforting feel. This dish is easily adaptable; you can throw in extra vegetables like spinach or broccoli for an added nutritional boost. Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting friends for game day, Buffalo Chicken Pasta is sure to impress.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Pasta Step by Step
Ingredients
12 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
2 cups cooked shredded chicken
1 tablespoon butter
1/3 cup hot buffalo sauce
1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped green onions for garnish
Directions
Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter; stir in buffalo sauce and cream cheese until smooth. Add ranch or blue cheese dressing and mix well. Fold in shredded chicken and cooked pasta, stirring to coat. Stir in mozzarella and cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving. Optional: For a baked version, transfer to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes until bubbly.
How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Pasta
Buffalo Chicken Pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp side salad or some garlic bread for a hearty meal. You can also serve it alongside some carrot sticks and celery with extra ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. For those who like a bit more heat, consider offering additional hot sauce on the side.
How to Store Buffalo Chicken Pasta
Leftover Buffalo Chicken Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the pasta in portions for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Expert Tips for Cooking Buffalo Chicken Pasta
- Use rotisserie chicken for even faster prep time and added flavor.
- Don’t be afraid to adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to match your heat preference.
- For extra creaminess, add a splash of milk along with the cream cheese.
- Make it a one-pot meal by cooking the pasta directly in the skillet with the sauce.
- Try mixing in some sautéed vegetables, like bell peppers or onions, for added texture and nutrition.
Delicious Variations of Buffalo Chicken Pasta
For those looking to mix it up, consider adding some sautéed zucchini or mushrooms for a veggie-loaded version. A citrus twist can be achieved by squeezing fresh lime over the top before serving. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or cauliflower tossed in buffalo sauce for a satisfying alternative.
Conclusion
Buffalo Chicken Pasta offers a perfect blend of spice and creaminess that will leave you craving more. This quick and easy recipe is not only delicious but also versatile enough to cater to various dietary needs and preferences. Give it a try, and you’ll discover a new favorite dish that brings everyone to the table!
Buffalo Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken You can use rotisserie chicken for faster prep.
- 1 tablespoon butter Melted in the skillet.
- 1/3 cup hot buffalo sauce Adjust for heat preference.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened For a creamier texture.
- 1/2 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Add more for extra cheesiness.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish Enhances flavor and presentation.
Instructions
Cooking
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter.
- Stir in buffalo sauce and cream cheese until smooth.
- Add ranch or blue cheese dressing and mix well.
- Fold in shredded chicken and cooked pasta, stirring to coat.
- Stir in mozzarella and cheddar cheese until melted.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
- Optional: For a baked version, transfer to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes until bubbly.
