Name: Buffalo Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 12 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the Pasta:; 2 tbsp butter; ½ cup diced onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 16 oz penne pasta (dry); 4 cups chicken broth; ½ cup buffalo sauce; 8 oz cream cheese (softened and cut into cubes); 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken; ½ cup mozzarella cheese (shredded); ½ cup cheddar cheese (shredded); ½ cup blue cheese crumbles

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If you’re a fan of buffalo chicken, this Buffalo Chicken Pasta is the ultimate dinner for you! With its creamy, spicy cheese sauce, tender chicken, and pasta, it’s a flavorful and comforting meal that comes together in just 30 minutes. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick meal any day of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Buffalo Chicken Pasta is the ideal blend of heat and comfort. The combination of spicy buffalo sauce with creamy cheeses and tender chicken makes for a crave-worthy meal. With just a handful of ingredients and a quick cook time, you can enjoy a deliciously satisfying dish that’s full of bold flavors. Plus, it’s easy to customize with more cheese, spice, or toppings, making it a versatile option for any buffalo chicken lover. Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Ingredients

2 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup diced onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
16 oz penne pasta (dry)
4 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup buffalo sauce
8 oz cream cheese (softened and cut into cubes)
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
1/2 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Sauté the Onion & Garlic:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
Cook the Pasta:
- Add the dry penne pasta and chicken broth to the pot. Stir to combine and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot with a lid, and cook for 8 minutes.
- Remove the lid and continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes, until the pasta is just short of al dente, and there is still some liquid in the pot.
Make the Sauce:
- Lower the heat and add buffalo sauce and cream cheese to the pot. Stir until the cream cheese melts and combines with the sauce.
- Stir in the shredded chicken and cook on low until the chicken is heated through. Turn off the heat.
Add the Cheeses:
- Stir in the mozzarella, cheddar, and blue cheese crumbles until melted and fully combined.
Serve:
- Serve topped with additional blue cheese, if desired, and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6 servings
Prep Time: 12 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Extra Spicy: Add more buffalo sauce to intensify the heat, or sprinkle some red pepper flakes for an additional kick.
Cheese Lovers: Feel free to add extra mozzarella or cheddar for a cheesier pasta.
Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and add more vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for a vegetarian alternative.
Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cream cheese and cheeses to make this dish dairy-free.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much. You can also reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute penne with other pasta shapes such as rigatoni, rotini, or elbow macaroni.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave when ready to serve.

3. Can I use cooked rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option. Just shred it and add it to the sauce as directed.

4. How spicy is this dish?

The level of spice depends on the buffalo sauce you use. If you prefer a milder version, use a less spicy buffalo sauce or add a little less than the recipe calls for.

5. Can I freeze Buffalo Chicken Pasta?

Yes, you can freeze this dish. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It will last up to 2 months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw it overnight and reheat on the stovetop or microwave.

6. Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! You can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or even broccoli for added flavor and nutrition.

7. Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?

Yes, you can use dairy-free cream cheese, mozzarella, and cheddar to make this dish dairy-free.

8. Can I make this recipe spicier?

If you want more heat, you can add extra buffalo sauce or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.

9. What can I substitute for blue cheese crumbles?

If you don’t like blue cheese, you can substitute it with feta cheese or just use more mozzarella or cheddar for a milder flavor.

10. How do I know when the pasta is done cooking?

The pasta should be cooked until it’s just short of al dente, meaning it’s firm but not too hard, and there should still be some liquid in the pot to make the sauce creamy.

Conclusion

Buffalo Chicken Pasta is the perfect meal for anyone who loves spicy, creamy comfort food. It’s quick, easy, and packed with bold flavors that will satisfy your cravings. With tender chicken, spicy buffalo sauce, and a creamy cheese sauce, it’s a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or for a weekend treat, this recipe will become a new favorite!