There’s something truly special about comfort food that packs a punch, and Buffalo Chicken Pasta is exactly that. Imagine creamy, cheesy pasta loaded with tender chicken and a bold, spicy buffalo sauce—this dish is perfect for when you’re craving something cozy with a kick. It’s like game day flavors met weeknight pasta, and they decided to throw a party in your kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or whipping up dinner for the family, this recipe delivers a satisfying, flavor-packed meal that everyone will love. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder that’s super easy to make—minimal cleanup required!

This dish brings together the rich tang of buffalo sauce with the creaminess of a velvety cheese sauce, creating a harmonious blend of heat and comfort. It’s versatile enough for any occasion, from a casual dinner to a fun twist on pasta night. If you’re a fan of bold flavors and creamy pasta dishes, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Bold Flavor Fusion: Combines the zing of buffalo chicken with the creamy decadence of pasta.
• Easy to Make: A simple, straightforward recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
• Crowd Pleaser: Great for potlucks, family dinners, or game day spreads.
• One-Pot Meal: Less mess, fewer dishes—what’s not to love?

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 12 ounces penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup buffalo sauce
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Pasta:

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, but save about ½ cup of the pasta water. This starchy liquid can help adjust the sauce later if needed.

2. Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season them with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook the chicken for about 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s fully cooked and golden brown on the outside. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

3. Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the buffalo sauce and chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze it and capture all those flavorful bits. Slowly add the heavy cream while stirring continuously. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

4. Add the Cheese
Once the sauce is simmering, reduce the heat to low and gradually add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Stir until the cheese has melted completely, creating a smooth, creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out with a splash of the reserved pasta water.

5. Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce to coat it evenly. Then, add the drained pasta to the pan and mix everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the sauce.

6. Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and added flavor, if desired. Serve the Buffalo Chicken Pasta hot, and watch it disappear in no time!

Helpful Tips:

• Spice Control: Adjust the heat level by using a milder buffalo sauce or adding less if you’re cooking for spice-sensitive eaters. For extra heat, throw in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
• Cheese Choices: Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Colby for a different flavor profile.
• Make It Ahead: This dish reheats beautifully, so you can prep it ahead of time for an easy, stress-free meal.
• Protein Swap: You can substitute chicken with cooked turkey or even shrimp for a seafood twist.

Recipe Details:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Can be adjusted for gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.

Notes:

• If you don’t have heavy cream on hand, you can use half-and-half, but the sauce won’t be as rich.
• For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free penne pasta.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: ~550
• Protein: 38g
• Carbs: 45g
• Fat: 24g

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works great in this recipe. Simply shred or chop it and add it to the sauce.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth to keep the sauce creamy.

Can I freeze Buffalo Chicken Pasta?
Yes, but note that the sauce may slightly change in texture when thawed. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months, then thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Related Recipes:

If you loved this recipe, here are a few more ideas to try:

• Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Conclusion:

Buffalo Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food for those who love a little heat in their meals. With its creamy, cheesy sauce and bold flavors, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe is a surefire way to spice up your dinner routine. Give it a try and let this one-pot wonder become a new favorite in your recipe rotation!

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