If you are craving something that balances creamy, spicy, and cheesy in one comforting bowl, this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe is about to become your new go-to weeknight game-changer. It combines tender chicken, tangy buffalo sauce, and gooey cheddar with pasta cooked to perfection, all wrapped up in a luscious sauce that feels indulgent yet surprisingly simple to pull together. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this dish delivers bold flavor and satisfying textures every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe are straightforward but each one plays a crucial role in building that crave-worthy flavor and texture. From the creamy tang of cream cheese to the spicy kick of buffalo sauce, every element works together beautifully.
- 12 ounces uncooked pasta: Choose your favorite shape; penne or rotini hold the sauce wonderfully.
- 2 cups cooked chicken: Shredded or diced, this adds hearty protein and soaks up that spicy sauce.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Adds richness and helps to create a smooth sauce base.
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened): The secret to a creamy, luscious texture that’s simply irresistible.
- 3 tablespoons Frank’s Red Hot Original Sauce: Classic buffalo flavor that gives the dish its signature zip.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Keeps the sauce silky and helps balance the heat with savory depth.
- 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning: Adds a hint of herbaceous cooling flavor to contrast the spice.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the sauce for cheesy richness and a touch of sharpness.
- Salt & pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to bring the whole dish into harmony.
- Chopped scallions (optional): For a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Cream Cheese
This step is key to a silky sauce, so make sure your cream cheese is soft before you start. Either take it out of the fridge about 30 minutes ahead or zap it in the microwave for 30 seconds. This makes melting it into the sauce a breeze and avoids any lumps in your Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta Al Dente
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta just until al dente according to the package directions. Cooking the pasta perfectly ensures it will have the ideal bite and won’t get mushy when tossed with the sauce later.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
While the pasta boils, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add softened cream cheese, Frank’s Red Hot sauce, chicken broth, and ranch seasoning. Stir continuously as the butter melts and the cream cheese incorporates smoothly, creating a luscious buffalo sauce base that will coat every noodle in the dish.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Chicken
Mix in the shredded cheddar until melted and well blended, then fold in the cooked chicken to warm through gently. Be careful not to overcook the chicken so it stays tender and juicy, complementing the creamy, spicy sauce perfectly.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Before draining the pasta, reserve a splash of the starchy cooking water. Toss the drained pasta into the sauce, adding a little pasta water if you want to loosen the sauce slightly. This helps everything cling together and makes your Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe glossy and irresistible. Finish with salt and pepper to taste.
How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Chopped scallions add a fresh pop of green and a mild onion flavor that cuts through the richness beautifully. If you love a little extra brightness and crunch, a sprinkle of chopped celery or a few crumbled blue cheese bits on top would be equally fantastic.
Side Dishes
This dish is rich and satisfying, so pairing it with light sides like a crisp green salad, steamed broccoli, or roasted veggies helps balance the meal. Some crusty bread or garlic knots are also excellent for mopping up any leftover sauce—you won’t want to waste a single drop!
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe in shallow bowls to showcase all the creamy sauce coating the pasta. For a fun twist, try baking it briefly with an extra layer of cheddar cheese on top to create a bubbly, golden crust. Garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of ranch dressing for a restaurant-worthy finish at home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Buffalo Chicken Pasta keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, making for a delicious second serving. Just give it a good stir before reheating to redistribute the sauce evenly.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. It’s best to freeze before adding scallions or fresh garnishes to keep textures fresh. Thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to enjoy.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if it thickened too much. You can also microwave it, stirring every minute or so to warm evenly without drying out the pasta.
FAQs
Can I use shredded rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken is a perfect, convenient choice for this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe and adds plenty of flavor with minimal prep time.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for this dish?
Yes, you can swap cream cheese with dairy-free cream cheese and use dairy-free cheddar-style shreds. Just be mindful that texture and flavor might vary slightly, but it still tastes delicious.
Can I adjust the spice level?
Definitely! Frank’s Red Hot sauce is the classic choice, but feel free to reduce the amount or add more if you like it extra spicy. You can also balance heat with additional ranch seasoning or cheese.
What pasta shapes work best for Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe?
Short, sturdy pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or farfalle work wonderfully because they hold the creamy sauce well, ensuring each bite is flavorful and satisfying.
Can I make this recipe ahead for a party?
You can prepare the sauce and cooked chicken in advance, then just toss with freshly cooked pasta right before serving. This keeps the pasta perfectly textured and the sauce fresh and creamy.
Final Thoughts
This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe is a brilliant way to bring bold flavor and comforting textures together in one dish with minimal fuss. It’s perfect for busy nights, casual gatherings, or anytime you want to treat yourself to something cozy and flavorful. Give it a try and get ready for your new favorite comfort food classic!
