Save It Buffalo Chicken Pasta is the ultimate crave-worthy weeknight meal when you want something creamy spicy and ultra comforting without heating up the oven. Chewy pasta twirled in a tangy Buffalo sauce with tender chicken and gooey cheese hits the spot every time and it comes together in under forty minutes for easy dinner bliss
The first time I made this dish was after a long day when I had leftover chicken and a wild craving for something spicy creamy and fast My family instantly devoured it and now it is on constant rotation in our house
Ingredients
- Penne or rotini pasta: gives a sturdy shape that holds the sauce well Choose a good quality brand for the best texture
- Cooked chicken breast: makes it a protein-packed meal Use shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience and flavor
- Unsalted butter: brings richness and blends the garlic and Buffalo sauce smoothly Select a pure butter without additives for optimal taste
- Fresh garlic: amplifies the savory base Look for firm plump cloves without green sprouting
- Buffalo wing sauce: provides signature tangy heat Pick your favorite brand and check the heat level to match your preference
- Cream cheese: creates that luxuriously creamy sauce Softened and cubed cream cheese melts best
- Sour cream: adds a slight tang and extra silky feel Use full-fat for creamier results
- Milk: thins and smooths out the sauce Whole milk gives the richest texture
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: melts into gooey strings and balances the spice Freshly shredded melts best
- Shredded cheddar cheese: brings sharp bite and beautiful color Choose a block and shred it yourself for superior melt
- Salt and black pepper: season the dish and round out the flavors Use freshly ground black pepper for extra punch
- Smoked paprika: provides gentle warmth with a smoky undertone optional but recommended for added depth
- Green onions: give a pop of freshness and color Slice thinly and use the green tops for brightness
- Fresh parsley: optional adds herbal lift and vibrant green garnish Choose flat-leaf parsley for better flavor
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Fill a large pot with salted water and bring to a boil Add the pasta and cook until just al dente stirring occasionally This ensures the pasta holds its shape Toss the drained pasta with a drizzle of oil to prevent sticking if you like and set aside
- Prepare the Sauce Base:
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven melt the butter over medium heat Add minced garlic and cook stirring constantly for one minute until fragrant but not browned The gentle heat releases the garlic aroma without burning
- Build the Buffalo Sauce:
- Whisk in Buffalo wing sauce cream cheese sour cream and milk Keep whisking over medium heat as the cream cheese melts and the mixture becomes smooth and slightly thick about three to four minutes The sauce should look creamy with no lumps
- Add the Cheeses:
- Sprinkle in mozzarella and cheddar cheeses Stir continuously until the cheeses have fully melted into the sauce for a perfectly silky consistency
- Incorporate the Chicken and Seasonings:
- Add shredded chicken salt black pepper and smoked paprika if using Gently fold until the chicken is evenly coated and warmed through in the sauce for two to three minutes The mixture should be bubbling gently but not boiling
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Transfer the drained pasta into the skillet Toss thoroughly with tongs or a spatula until every piece of pasta is cloaked in the creamy spicy sauce
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from heat Scatter thinly sliced green onions and fresh parsley over the top Serve right away for the creamiest texture and best flavor
Save It This recipe always gets the whole family around the table fast Sometimes I will sneak in a few extra green onions for myself The cheesy spicy combo is pure comfort food and reminds me of football Sundays growing up
Storage Tips
Let leftovers cool completely before transferring to an airtight container Refrigerate for up to three days To reheat add a splash of milk and warm gently in a skillet for best texture Microwaving works in a pinch but the oven is not needed
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap cooked turkey for chicken if you want a twist Try Monterey Jack cheese for an even creamier pull and use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for a lighter sauce Gluten-free pasta works just as well and keeps it inclusive for all diets
Serving Suggestions
For a crisp contrast serve with a big crunchy salad or celery sticks Garlic bread makes a classic pairing The dish is filling on its own but a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing on top is always welcome
Cultural Context
Buffalo chicken flavors date back to Buffalo New York where spicy buttery wing sauce became an icon in American cuisine This pasta updates the flavor profile to a family friendly skillet meal with creamy undertones instead of deep frying
Seasonal Adaptations
Add blanched broccoli or spinach for extra greens when spring is abundant Substitute rotisserie turkey after the holidays for a smart leftover meal In summer swap out heavy cream cheese for whipped cottage cheese to keep it lighter
Success Stories
Friends often text me for this recipe after I make it for potlucks and it is always the first dish to disappear The leftovers taste even better the next day and my kids swear it heats up perfectly for their lunchboxes
Freezer Meal Conversion
Prepare the recipe through step five Cool and transfer to a freezer safe container Thaw overnight in the fridge then reheat gently on the stovetop stirring in a splash of milk to bring back the creamy texture
Save It Save this recipe for busy nights or to impress friends at your next get-together You will crave the creamy spicy comfort again and again
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, using rotisserie chicken adds convenience and keeps preparation quick.
- → Is it possible to make this lighter?
Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to reduce fat and boost protein.
- → What kind of pasta works best?
Penne or rotini are ideal, as their shapes hold sauce well. Any short pasta is suitable.
- → How do I adjust the spice level?
Use less Buffalo sauce for milder flavor, or add hot sauce and cayenne for extra heat.
- → Can I make this gluten-free?
Simply use gluten-free pasta and check labels on all sauces and cheeses.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Serve with a crisp salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.