Buffalo Chicken Pasta
This One Pot Buffalo Chicken Pasta is your perfect dish for any occasion. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a game day feast, this recipe is both flavorful and easy to prepare. Combining tender chicken with a creamy buffalo sauce, it offers a delightful blend of spice and comfort in every bite. You can use fresh chicken, rotisserie, or even leftovers to whip up this satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just one pot needed, cleanup is a breeze after you enjoy this delicious meal.
- Versatile Ingredients: Use rotisserie chicken or whatever pasta you have on hand to make it your own.
- Rich Flavor Profile: The creamy buffalo sauce brings a unique twist that elevates classic pasta dishes.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, everyone will love this comforting dish.
- Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level by modifying the amount of buffalo sauce or adding red pepper flakes.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking, having the right tools will help make the process smoother. Gather these essential kitchen tools to ensure your Buffalo Chicken Pasta turns out perfectly.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A good quality skillet ensures even cooking and makes it easier to combine ingredients seamlessly.
- Knife: A sharp knife allows for quick chopping, saving you preparation time.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements help maintain the balance of flavors in your dish.
Ingredients
This One Pot Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe features simple yet delicious ingredients that come together to create a mouthwatering meal.
Protein
- 1 large boneless skinless chicken breast (equal to 1 lb.)
Dairy and Sauces
- ½ cup blue cheese dressing (can sub ranch)
- 2 Tablespoons butter (divided)
- 8 oz. cream cheese (softened and cubed)
- 1.5 cups cheddar (shredded)
- 1 cup mozzarella (shredded)
Vegetables
- ½ cup yellow onion (diced)
- 1 stick celery (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
Pantry Staples
- 14.5 oz. diced tomatoes (undrained, 1 can)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 lb. penne
- ½ cup buffalo sauce
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons cold butter (optional)
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by setting out your cheeses—cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese—so they can reach room temperature before mixing them with the pasta.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In your skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté until soft, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the chicken breast and cook until no longer pink inside.
Step 3: Add Liquids
Once the chicken is cooked through, stir in the diced tomatoes with their juice and the chicken broth. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil.
Step 4: Incorporate Pasta
Add the penne pasta to the boiling mixture. Reduce heat to low and cover the skillet. Cook until pasta is tender according to package instructions.
Step 5: Mix in Cheese and Sauce
Once the pasta is done, stir in buffalo sauce, cream cheese, cheddar, and mozzarella until melted and creamy throughout.
Step 6: Final Touches
If desired for extra richness, add cold butter at this stage. Stir gently until combined.
Enjoy every bite of your flavorful Buffalo Chicken Pasta!
How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Pasta
Buffalo Chicken Pasta is a hearty dish that brings comfort and flavor to the table. It’s versatile and can be enjoyed in several ways to enhance your dining experience.
Family Style
- Serve in a large bowl and let everyone help themselves. This creates a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for family dinners.
With Garlic Bread
- Pair with crispy garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce. The crunchiness complements the softness of the pasta perfectly.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro on top for added freshness. This not only elevates the dish visually but also adds a burst of flavor.
On a Bed of Greens
- For a lighter option, serve over fresh spinach or mixed greens. The greens add a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.
As Leftovers
- Enjoy cold as a pasta salad, or reheat it for an easy lunch. The flavors meld beautifully when stored overnight.
How to Perfect Buffalo Chicken Pasta
Perfecting Buffalo Chicken Pasta involves attention to detail and some simple tips. These will ensure your dish is creamy and flavorful every time you make it.
- Use Quality Chicken: Opt for fresh or rotisserie chicken for better taste and texture.
- Control Spice Level: Adjust buffalo sauce according to your heat preference. Start with less and add more as needed.
- Room Temperature Cheese: Let cream cheese and shredded cheeses warm up before mixing; this helps them melt evenly.
- Stir Constantly: While cooking, stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even coating with sauce.
- Add Vegetables: Enhance nutrition by adding in vegetables like bell peppers or spinach during cooking.
- Garnish Generously: Finish with extra shredded cheese or crumbled blue cheese for added richness and flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Buffalo Chicken Pasta
Pairing side dishes with Buffalo Chicken Pasta can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement this dish wonderfully.
- Caesar Salad: A classic salad with crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and creamy dressing balances the richness of the pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide a healthy, colorful addition to your plate.
- Coleslaw: Tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch that contrasts nicely with the creaminess of the pasta.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is a delightful side that enhances the overall flavor profile of your meal.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a satisfying side option.
- Baked Zucchini Fries: These healthy fries are flavorful and offer a nice crunch alongside the soaked-up sauce from the pasta.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking Buffalo Chicken Pasta can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the final dish. Avoid these mistakes for a perfect meal.
- Not Prepping Ingredients: Failing to prepare all your ingredients ahead of time can slow you down. Chop veggies and measure sauces before starting.
- Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking pasta too long in the broth will make it mushy. Follow package instructions for al dente and adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Skipping Cheese Temperature: Adding cold cream cheese directly can cause lumps. Always let your cheese sit out to reach room temperature before use.
- Ignoring Flavor Adjustments: Tasting as you cook is crucial. Don’t skip this step; adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional buffalo sauce to enhance flavor.
- Using Low-Quality Chicken: The quality of chicken affects the dish significantly. Opt for fresh or high-quality rotisserie chicken for the best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Buffalo Chicken Pasta
- Use a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Buffalo Chicken Pasta
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring occasionally until hot throughout.
- Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Buffalo Chicken Pasta.
What type of chicken should I use for Buffalo Chicken Pasta?
You can use fresh chicken breast, rotisserie chicken, or even leftover cooked chicken. Each option brings unique flavors!
Can I make Buffalo Chicken Pasta vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute chicken with beans or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version.
How spicy is Buffalo Chicken Pasta?
The spice level depends on the buffalo sauce you choose. For less heat, opt for mild buffalo sauce or add less than called for in the recipe.
Can I customize my Buffalo Chicken Pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach, or swap out cheeses based on your preference.
Final Thoughts
Buffalo Chicken Pasta is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting spice levels. Give this one-pot wonder a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Buffalo Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Buffalo Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that combines tender chicken, creamy buffalo sauce, and perfectly cooked penne pasta—all in one pot. This flavorful dish is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or game day gatherings. The rich blend of spices and creamy cheeses creates a delightful meal that everyone will love. Whether you use fresh chicken, rotisserie, or leftovers, this recipe allows for versatility and customization to suit your taste. Enjoy the zesty flavor profile that’s sure to impress your family and friends with every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 large boneless skinless chicken breast (1 lb)
- ½ cup blue cheese dressing (or ranch)
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup diced yellow onion
- 1 stick diced celery
- 3 cloves minced garlic
- 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes (undrained)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 lb penne pasta
- ½ cup buffalo sauce
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by bringing cheeses to room temperature.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sauté onion, celery, and garlic until soft.
- Add the chicken breast and cook until no longer pink.
- Stir in diced tomatoes and chicken broth; bring to a gentle boil.
- Add penne pasta; cover and cook until tender according to package instructions.
- Mix in buffalo sauce, cream cheese, cheddar, and mozzarella until melted and creamy throughout.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 1120mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
