Buffalo Chicken Pasta

This One Pot Buffalo Chicken Pasta is a delicious and satisfying dish that brings together the bold flavors of buffalo sauce, creamy cheese, and tender chicken. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, this recipe is versatile enough to use fresh, rotisserie, or leftover chicken. The creamy sauce pairs beautifully with pasta, making this a favorite comfort food that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of buffalo sauce and creamy cheese creates a mouthwatering dish that’s bursting with flavor.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use what you have on hand—fresh chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even leftovers work great!
• One-Pot Wonder: Cooking everything in one pot means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Great for serving at parties or family gatherings; it’s sure to impress your guests!

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking this Buffalo Chicken Pasta not only easier but also more enjoyable. Here are the essential tools you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet allows even cooking and helps create a creamy sauce without needing multiple pots.
• Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces for better cooking.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your pasta.

Ingredients

This One Pot Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe is easy to make in a skillet with a delicious cream sauce and your choice of pasta. Use fresh, rotisserie, or leftover chicken!

Protein & Sauce

• 1 large boneless skinless chicken breast (equal to 1 lb.)
• ½ cup blue cheese dressing (can sub ranch)
• ½ cup buffalo sauce

Vegetables & Broth

• ½ cup yellow onion (diced)
• 1 stick celery (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 14.5 oz. diced tomatoes (undrained, (1 can))
• 4 cups chicken broth

Pasta & Cheese

• 1 lb. penne
• 8 oz. cream cheese (softened and cubed)
• 1.5 cups cheddar (shredded)
• 1 cup mozzarella (shredded)

Extras

• 2 Tablespoons butter (divided)
• 1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons cold butter (optional)

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Before you start cooking, ensure all your ingredients are prepped:
1. Dice the onion and celery.
2. Mince the garlic.
3. Soften the cream cheese by letting it sit at room temperature.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter.
2. Add the diced onion and celery; sauté until softened.
3. Add minced garlic; cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Chicken and Sauce

1. Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces.
2. Add the chicken to the skillet; cook until browned on all sides.
3. Stir in the buffalo sauce, blue cheese dressing, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring the mixture to a boil.
2. Add the penne; stir well to combine.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low; cook covered for about 15 minutes or until pasta is tender.

Step 5: Incorporate Cheeses

1. Once pasta is cooked through, reduce heat to low.
2. Gradually add softened cream cheese, cheddar, and mozzarella while stirring until melted and combined.

Step 6: Serve

1. If desired, add red pepper flakes for extra heat or sprinkle cold butter on top before serving for added richness.
2. Serve warm and enjoy your flavorful Buffalo Chicken Pasta!

How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Buffalo Chicken Pasta is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or a game day gathering, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Family Style

• Serve the pasta straight from the skillet for a rustic, family-style meal. This encourages sharing and creates a cozy atmosphere at the table.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with fresh parsley or chives. This adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the dish’s creamy flavors.

On a Bed of Greens

• For a lighter option, serve Buffalo Chicken Pasta over a bed of mixed greens. The crunch of the greens balances the richness of the pasta.

As Leftover Lunch

• Pack leftovers in meal prep containers for an easy lunch. Just reheat in the microwave for a quick and satisfying meal on-the-go.

With Extra Cheese

• Top individual servings with additional shredded cheese before serving. Melted cheese adds an extra layer of deliciousness to each bite.

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How to Perfect Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Perfecting your Buffalo Chicken Pasta is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure it turns out great every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and vegetables enhance flavor and texture significantly.
• Adjust Spice Level: Modify the amount of buffalo sauce based on your spice preference for a milder or hotter dish.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure your pasta is slightly undercooked before mixing it with the sauce; it will absorb more flavor as it finishes cooking.
• Cream Cheese Temperature: Make sure cream cheese is softened to blend smoothly into the sauce without lumps.
• Taste as You Go: Always taste and adjust seasoning throughout cooking for optimal flavor balance.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to sit for 5 minutes before serving helps thicken the sauce and meld flavors together.

Best Side Dishes for Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Pairing side dishes with your Buffalo Chicken Pasta can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic pairing, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your pasta.
2. Caesar Salad: The crunchy romaine and creamy dressing create a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crispness and balances the heat of buffalo sauce.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide color, nutrition, and earthy flavors alongside your dish.
5. Buffalo Cauliflower Bites: For an extra kick, serve spicy buffalo cauliflower bites as a playful side.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a hearty companion to this creamy pasta dish.
7. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins add a delightful sweetness that complements spicy flavors well.
8. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad offers refreshing sweetness that contrasts beautifully with buffalo flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can make your Buffalo Chicken Pasta turn out perfectly. Here are some mistakes to watch for:

• Using cold cheese: Cold cheese can clump together and not blend well into the sauce. Make sure to bring your cheese to room temperature before adding it.
• Overcooking the pasta: Overcooked pasta can become mushy and lose its structure. Cook it al dente for the best texture in your dish.
• Skipping seasoning: Not seasoning the dish properly can leave your pasta bland. Taste as you go and adjust with salt, pepper, or extra buffalo sauce.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Poor quality ingredients can affect the taste of your meal. Opt for fresh chicken and high-quality buffalo sauce for a richer flavor.
• Not letting it rest: Cutting into the dish immediately can lead to a soupy mess. Let it rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow flavors to meld.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Buffalo Chicken Pasta in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Buffalo Chicken Pasta

• Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Buffalo Chicken Pasta

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place pasta in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of chicken broth and reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Buffalo Chicken Pasta, you’re not alone! Here are some commonly asked questions:

Can I use rotisserie chicken for Buffalo Chicken Pasta?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds delicious flavor to your dish.

What if I don’t have buffalo sauce?

You can substitute buffalo sauce with BBQ sauce or sriracha mixed with some butter for a different kick.

How spicy is Buffalo Chicken Pasta?

The spiciness can vary based on the buffalo sauce you use. Adjust the amount according to your taste preference.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead.

Final Thoughts

Buffalo Chicken Pasta is an incredibly flavorful dish that’s both easy and satisfying. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends and family. Feel free to customize it by adding veggies or adjusting the spice level. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy your delightful creation!