Picture this: the sound of sizzling chicken mixed with the tangy aroma of spicy sauce wafting through your kitchen. That’s what you’ll get with Buffalo Chicken Pasta. It’s bursting with flavor and trending all over TikTok and Pinterest right now because, let’s face it, who doesn’t love a cozy, creamy dish that packs a bit of a punch?
This delight brings together tender chicken, zesty buffalo sauce, and pastaall harmonizing in one easy, comforting bowl. Think of it like your grandma’s classic recipe, but way faster! It’s perfect for busy nights when you need something delicious without the fuss. Full details in the blog!
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Buffalo Chicken Pasta Easy Delicious Recipe to Try
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6 people 1x
- Diet: Standard
Description
Buffalo Chicken Pasta is a spicy creamy dish popular on Pinterest in the USA that mixes buffalo sauce, chicken, and pasta for quick weeknight dinners. This recipe delivers a flavorful, simple meal perfect for busy evenings. Enjoy a comforting blend of ingredients that makes cooking easy and tasty.
Ingredients
- 1 large boneless skinless chicken breast equal to 1 lb
- ½ cup blue cheese dressing can sub ranch
- 2 Tablespoons butter divided
- 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
- 1 lb penne
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 8 oz cream cheese softened and cubed
- 1.5 cups cheddar shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella shredded
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes optional
- 2 tablespoons cold butter optional
Instructions
- Gently poach the chicken by placing it in simmering water for 15 minutes, then shred it using two forks and toss with blue cheese dressing.
- In a large skillet, melt some butter over medium heat, then cook the onions and celery until soft, about 5 minutes; add garlic and sauté for another minute.
- Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes and chicken broth, bring to a boil, then add pasta fully submerged and boil, covered, for 10 to 13 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and cook to al dente.
- Lower the heat, stir in buffalo sauce, cream cheese cubes, and shredded cheddar and mozzarella; mix gently as the sauce thickens.
- Add the shredded chicken and red pepper flakes, then optionally stir in cold butter to create a smooth finish once the sauce is close to desired consistency.
Notes
- Use slightly less than a pound of pasta if you prefer more sauce
- Ensure cream cheese is fully softened before adding
- Poach chicken gently to keep it tender
- Shredded cheese from a block melts better than pre-shredded
- Add cheese on low heat to avoid grainy sauce
- Ranch can substitute blue cheese
- Using all chicken broth is preferred over mixing with water
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 758kcal
Why It’s a Family Favorite
If you’re searching for a cozy dish that appeals to everyone in the family, look no further! Buffalo Chicken Pasta is an absolute crowd-pleaser. It’s creamy, perfectly spicy, and packed with flavorall without spending hours in the kitchen.

Many of us have been thereafter a long day, you want something hearty that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. This dish is not only simple to assemble but also adapts to a variety of tastes. Got picky eaters? No problem! The sauce’s spice level can be adjusted to suit your family’s preferences.
Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken, making it easy to prepare even on chaotic days. That’s my kind of cooking!
Key Ingredients & Tools
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful dish:
- 1 large boneless skinless chicken breast: About 1 lb. This is your main protein!
- Blue cheese dressing (½ cup): A must for that classic flavor. Want a milder taste? Feel free to swap it with ranch dressing.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): For sautéing. Don’t skimp on thisit adds richness!
- Diced tomatoes (1 can): Provides a juicy base, flavor, and acidity.
- Chicken broth (4 cups): Helps to cook the pasta and adds more flavor to your sauce.
- Penne pasta (1 lb.): Its tubular shape holds onto the creamy sauce perfectly!
- Bull’s-eye (½ cup) and cream cheese (8 oz.): Essential for creating that dreamy sauce.
- Shredded cheeses (1.5 cups cheddar, 1 cup mozzarella): Because can we ever have too much cheese? I think not!
As for tools, a high-walled skillet is your best friend here. It keeps everything contained and makes stirring effortless. And of course, you’ll need a pot for boiling the chicken.
Simple Steps to Make It
- Boil the chicken: Place your chicken breast in a pot of water. Bring it to a gentle boil and cook for about 15 minutes until fully cooked. Shred it with two forks and mix it with the blue cheese dressing.
- Cook the veggies: In your large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Sauté the onions and celery for about 5 minutes until tender. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Bring in the broth and pasta: Pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir in the penne pasta, making sure it’s well submerged. Let it boil for 10-13 minutes until al dente. Keep an eye on itno one likes mushy pasta!
- Make the sauce: Once your pasta is perfectly cooked, lower the heat. Add the buffalo sauce, cream cheese, and shredded cheeses. Stir gently until it transforms into a creamy delight!
- Finish it off: Add the shredded chicken and optional red pepper flakes for an extra kick. Stir in a little cold butter at the end for a silky finish to your sauce!
Pro Tips & Variations
Here are a few tips to make your cooking experience easier:
- Cheese swaps: If you’re in a pinch, bagged shredded cheese works fine, but freshly shredded cheese melts better!
- Chicken choices: Feel free to use rotisserie or any leftover chicken you have. It totally saves time!
- Buffalo level: Adjust the spice! If your family isn’t keen on heat, reduce the buffalo sauce or add more cream cheese for a milder result.
How to Serve & Store
This hearty dish is best served warm straight from the skillet. It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or some garlic bread if you want to go the extra cozy route!
| Storage Tip | Reheating Method |
|---|---|
| Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. | Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it creamy. |
| This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight before reheating. | Microwave for quick reheating, but be cautious! Stir often to distribute heat evenly. |
Expert Says
When preparing buffalo chicken pasta, consider using whole grain pasta for added fiber and nutrients. The combination of spicy buffalo sauce with protein from chicken not only enhances flavor but also makes this dish especially satisfyingperfect for any occasion.
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The Quest for the Best Buffalo Chicken Pasta
After countless attempts balancing spicy buffalo flavor with creamy richness, I finally landed on the perfect Buffalo Chicken Pasta. I learned the hard way that not every sauce needs to be lava-hot, and a dash of ranch really elevates it! This dish is now a family favorite, proving that persistence pays off in the kitchen.
FAQs ( Buffalo Chicken Pasta )
What is Buffalo Chicken Pasta?
This dish combines tender chicken, spicy buffalo sauce, and creamy pasta for a comforting meal. It’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners or game day gatherings, delivering flavor and satisfaction in every bite.
How do I store leftovers of this meal?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool before sealing to prevent moisture buildup. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave for best results.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce a day in advance and store them separately. Just cook the pasta fresh on the day you plan to serve it for the best texture.
What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Short, hearty pasta like penne or rotini works best, as they hold onto the sauce easily. You can also use gluten-free pasta if needed, making this meal versatile for varying dietary preferences.
How can I adjust the heat in this dish?
To make this dish milder, reduce the amount of buffalo sauce or mix it with ranch dressing. For extra heat, add hot sauce or toss in chili flakes to taste, customizing it to your preference.

Conclusion
There you have ityour very own Buffalo Chicken Pasta masterpiece that pairs tender chicken with creamy, zesty goodness! With just 30 minutes of cooking, your kitchen will smell incredible, and your family will be lining up for seconds. You’ll love how it turns outcomfort food that feels like a warm hug in a bowl!
Want to switch things up? Toss in some sautéed spinach or swap the pasta for zoodles for a lighter twist. A little dash of hot sauce can also amp up the heat. And a trick I learned from my aunt’s kitchen? Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three daysperfect for easy reheating!
Now, I’d love to hear from you! Did you grow up with something like this? Snap a photo of your creation or share a memory with us in the comments! Remember, recipes are best when shared, so don’t forget to save this for your loved ones. Happy cooking!










