Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe is the perfect blend of spice and creaminess, making it a standout dish for any occasion. This easy-to-make casserole combines tender chicken with zesty buffalo sauce and creamy cheese, creating a delightful meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or simply looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe fits the bill. Its rich flavors and comforting textures make it an instant favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of buffalo sauce, cream cheese, and two types of cheese provides a mouthwatering taste that’s hard to resist.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish appeals to both adults and kids alike.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily modify the recipe by adding vegetables or adjusting the level of spice according to your preference.
- One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup is required since everything comes together in one pan, making it practical for busy cooks.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into cooking, gather your tools. Having the right equipment can make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Ideal for making the creamy buffalo sauce while giving you enough space to mix in all ingredients seamlessly.
- Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures your penne pasta cooks evenly and thoroughly before mixing with the sauce.
- Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth sauce by thoroughly blending cream cheese with buffalo sauce and chicken broth.
Ingredients
To make this delicious Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe, gather the following ingredients:
For the Pasta
- 1 pound Penne Pasta
For the Sauce
- 1 package Cream Cheese (8 ounces)
- 1/2 cup Buffalo Sauce (Frank’s Red Hot Wing Sauce)
- 1 cup Chicken Broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
For the Chicken
- 1 pound Chicken breast (or thigh, cooked and shredded)
For Cheese Topping
- 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese (shredded)
- 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (shredded)
- 1/4 cup Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing (optional)
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat:
Add cream cheese, buffalo sauce, and chicken broth.
Stir constantly until the cream cheese melts and becomes smooth.
Step 3: Season the Sauce
Add:
garlic powder
kosher salt
Whisk until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Chicken
Stir in:
The cooked and shredded chicken.
Mix until everything is blended together nicely.
Step 5: Add Pasta & Cheese
Fold in:
The cooked penne pasta
Shredded mozzarella cheese
Shredded cheddar cheese
Remove from heat once everything is combined well.
Step 6: Serve
Serve warm. Drizzle with ranch or blue cheese dressing if desired for an extra layer of flavor!
How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe
Serving your Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe can elevate the meal experience. This dish is not only filling but also bursting with flavor, making it perfect for gatherings or family dinners. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your plate.
With Fresh Vegetables
- Crunchy Celery Sticks: Serve alongside crunchy celery sticks to contrast the creamy pasta.
- Carrot Sticks: Pair with carrot sticks for a fresh and sweet crunch that complements the dish.
Topped with Extra Cheese
- Shredded Mozzarella: Sprinkle more shredded mozzarella on top before serving for an extra cheesy delight.
- Parmesan Cheese: A light dusting of Parmesan cheese can add a salty bite to the overall flavors.
Accompanied by Dips
- Ranch Dressing: A drizzle of ranch dressing can enhance the flavors and offer a cooling effect.
- Blue Cheese Dressing: For those who love bold flavors, blue cheese dressing adds a rich taste that pairs well with buffalo sauce.
Served in Individual Portions
- In Baking Dishes: For a fun presentation, serve in individual baking dishes or ramekins for guests to enjoy their own portion.
- In Bowls: Using deep bowls allows for easy mixing and ensures everyone gets a hearty helping of sauce and pasta.
How to Perfect Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe
To make your Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe even better, consider these helpful tips. These simple adjustments can make a big difference in flavor and texture.
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: Choose fresh chicken and high-quality buffalo sauce for the best flavor impact.
- Customize Spice Level: Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce depending on how spicy you like your pasta. Start with less if you’re unsure!
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and color.
- Bake for a Crispy Top: After mixing everything, bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes for a crispy topping.
- Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Pair with Fresh Herbs: Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley for freshness and visual appeal.
Best Side Dishes for Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe can balance out the meal. Here are some excellent options that complement its bold flavors perfectly.
- Garlic Bread: Perfectly toasted garlic bread is great for soaking up any leftover sauce from your pasta.
- Caesar Salad: A light Caesar salad offers crisp greens that contrast nicely with the richness of the pasta.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch and balances out the heat from the buffalo sauce.
- Roasted Broccoli: Roasting broccoli adds depth of flavor while keeping things healthy and colorful on your plate.
- Sweet Potato Fries: These crispy fries provide sweetness that works well against the spiciness of the dish.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn adds a sweet element that pairs wonderfully with buffalo chicken flavors.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges make for a hearty side that complements this filling main dish.
- Mixed Greens Salad: A simple mixed greens salad dressed lightly keeps things fresh without overpowering the main course.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can make your Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using the wrong pasta: It’s important to use penne or a similar shape for this dish. These shapes hold the sauce well, enhancing flavor in every bite.
- Overcooking pasta: Follow the package instructions carefully. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and won’t hold up well in the casserole.
- Not seasoning properly: Always taste your sauce before adding it to the pasta. Adjust salt and spice levels to suit your preference for the best flavor.
- Skipping the cheese: Cheese adds creaminess and richness to your Buffalo Chicken Pasta. Omitting it can lead to a dry dish that lacks texture.
- Ignoring cooking time: Ensure you don’t rush through cooking the sauce. A good simmer is key for melting the cream cheese and developing flavors.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Buffalo Chicken Pasta in an airtight container.
- It will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe
- You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months.
- Use freezer-safe containers to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil, heat for about 20 minutes, then uncover for an additional 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl and cover. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of chicken broth to a skillet, heat on medium while stirring until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Buffalo Chicken Pasta.
How do I make my Buffalo Chicken Pasta spicier?
You can add more buffalo sauce or include red pepper flakes in the sauce for extra heat.
Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Yes! Feel free to use shredded rotisserie chicken or even cooked shrimp as alternatives in this recipe.
What sides pair well with Buffalo Chicken Pasta?
A simple green salad or garlic bread complements this dish beautifully and balances its richness.
Is there a vegetarian version of Buffalo Chicken Pasta?
Absolutely! Replace chicken with sautéed vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms, and use plant-based cream cheese and cheese alternatives.
Final Thoughts
This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding vegetables or adjusting spices based on your preference. Perfect for a cozy dinner, it’s sure to satisfy cravings while being easy enough for weeknight meals. Give it a try!
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the flavorful delight of this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe, where zesty buffalo sauce meets creamy cheese for a comforting dish that’s perfect for any gathering. With tender shredded chicken enveloped in a rich, spicy sauce and combined with al dente penne pasta, this one-pot wonder is quick to prepare and a sure crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting game day festivities or need a fast weeknight dinner, this recipe offers a burst of flavor that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the heat level to suit your taste. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings family and friends together.
Ingredients
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (e.g., Frank's Red Hot Wing Sauce)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 pound cooked and shredded chicken breast
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente, then drain.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, combine cream cheese, buffalo sauce, and chicken broth. Stir until smooth.
- Add garlic powder and kosher salt, whisking until well mixed.
- Stir in the cooked chicken until evenly coated.
- Fold in the drained pasta along with mozzarella and cheddar cheeses until everything is well combined.
- Serve warm, optionally drizzled with ranch or blue cheese dressing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: One-Pot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
