Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the rich aroma of buffalo sauce fills the kitchen, I can’t help but feel a wave of excitement wash over me. Today, I’m sharing my go-to recipe for One Pot Buffalo Chicken Pasta, a dish that transforms weekday dinners into memorable family feasts. What I adore about this recipe is how effortlessly it combines succulent chicken and perfectly cooked pasta in a creamy sauce, all in just one pot. Not only does it simplify cleanup, but it’s also customizable, allowing you to use fresh, leftover, or rotisserie chicken and choose between zesty blue cheese or cooling ranch dressing. Whether you’re feeding the kids or hosting friends, this creamy buffalo chicken pasta promises to deliver a satisfying and delightful experience that keeps everyone coming back for more. Curious how this easy dish can become a favorite in your home? Let’s dive into the recipe! Why Is Buffalo Chicken Pasta a Must-Try? Easy, One-Pot Wonder: Forget about multiple pots cluttering your kitchen. This recipe allows you to create a flavorful meal in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze! Flavor-Packed: The combination of zesty buffalo sauce and creamy cheeses results in a rich, savory experience that will have your taste buds dancing! Customizable: Choose your chicken type—fresh, leftovers, or even rotisserie—and dress it with either bold blue cheese or mild ranch dressing. Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike, this dish transforms any weeknight into a delightful dining experience. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Quick Meal Solution: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for those busy nights when you want comfort food without the wait. Make sure to check out my Crockpot Chicken Tacos for another simple solution that your family will love! Buffalo Chicken Pasta Ingredients For the Chicken: • Chicken Breast – A primary protein source; using boneless, skinless breasts makes preparation easy. • Blue Cheese Dressing – Adds tangy creaminess, but you can substitute with ranch dressing for a milder flavor. For the Pasta: • Penne Pasta – The main carbohydrate; it absorbs the delicious flavors of the sauce. Other pasta shapes can be used if needed. • Butter – Elevates the flavor profile and facilitates sautéing. For the Sauce: • Buffalo Sauce – Imparts that signature spicy kick; adjust the quantity to suit your heat preferences. • Cream Cheese – Creates a creamy texture; remember to soften it for easy blending. • Cheddar Cheese – Adds a rich cheddar flavor; shred from a block for the best melt quality. • Mozzarella Cheese – Provides that gooey, melty texture; again, shredding from a block enhances the dish. For the Veggies: • Yellow Onion – Offers an aromatic flavor base; finely dice for quicker cooking. • Celery – Brings crunch and freshness; dice to match the onion size. • Garlic – An essential aromatic; mince for a quick flavor boost. • Diced Tomatoes – Adds moisture and a mild acidity; use undrained to enrich the sauce. • Chicken Broth – Forms the cooking base for the pasta while adding depth of flavor. For the Toppings: • Red Pepper Flakes – Optional for an additional layer of heat; sprinkle to taste. Now you’re all set with the ingredients for a mouthwatering Buffalo Chicken Pasta that’ll spice up your weeknight dinner! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Buffalo Chicken Pasta Step 1: Boil Chicken Begin by bringing a pot of water to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Carefully add the boneless, skinless chicken breasts and allow them to cook for about 15 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Once done, remove the chicken, shred it using two forks, and toss it with blue cheese dressing for added flavor. Step 2: Sauté Vegetables In a large skillet, melt half of the butter over medium heat. Add the finely diced yellow onion and celery, sautéing for about 5 minutes until they become tender and fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic, continuing to cook for an additional minute until the garlic is aromatic, enhancing the flavor base for the Buffalo Chicken Pasta. Step 3: Cook Pasta Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta, ensuring it is fully submerged. Cover the skillet and cook for 10-13 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed some of the sauce. Step 4: Combine Sauces Reduce the heat to low and stir in the buffalo sauce, cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and mozzarella until melted and well combined. Add the shredded chicken to the skillet, mixing everything together. Taste and adjust seasoning with optional red pepper flakes if you desire extra heat in your Buffalo Chicken Pasta. Step 5: Finishing Touch For a rich, smooth sauce, swirl in the remaining cold butter, stirring until melted and evenly distributed. This final step adds a lovely glossy finish to your Buffalo Chicken Pasta, making it irresistible and enhancing the overall flavor profile. Serve hot, and enjoy the scrumptious combination of flavors! Make Ahead Options These One Pot Buffalo Chicken Pasta creations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prep the chicken and vegetables (onion, celery, and garlic) up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can combine the cheeses and buffalo sauce for a smooth preparation. Just before cooking, sauté the prepped vegetables, add the tomatoes and broth, and follow with the pasta for a hassle-free finish. This way, you’ll enjoy a rich and creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta that tastes just as delicious, all while saving precious time during your busy evenings! Buffalo Chicken Pasta Variations Feel free to play around with this recipe and create your unique take on Buffalo Chicken Pasta! Pasta Shape: Try using fusilli or elbow macaroni. Each shape holds onto the sauce differently, creating a delightful change in texture! Smoky Flavor: Grilled Chicken: Swap your boiled chicken for grilled for a delicious smoky twist that adds depth to the dish. Sauce Alternative: Teriyaki Sauce: Replace buffalo sauce with teriyaki for an entirely different flavor profile—sweet and tangy! Veggie Boost: Add Spinach or Bell Peppers: Toss in some fresh spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and a pop of color in the dish. Spice Level: Reduce Buffalo Sauce: If you’re sensitive to heat, reduce the buffalo sauce and pair it with a dollop of sour cream for cooling contrast. Creaminess Factor: Add Heavy Cream: For an ultra-creamy texture, mix in a splash of heavy cream before finishing with cheese. Herb Infusion: Fresh Herbs: Jazz it up with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a burst of flavor and a touch of elegance. Cheese Variety: Experiment with Cheese: Try pepper jack or gouda for a different cheesy twist that will make your heart sing! As you explore these variations, don’t forget to embrace the delicious spirit of this dish. It’s versatile enough to satisfy any craving or dietary preference! And if you’re inspired by this recipe, you might also enjoy my Chicken Dumplings Cozy for another comforting family favorite. Happy cooking! How to Store and Freeze Buffalo Chicken Pasta Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce. Freezer: You can freeze Buffalo Chicken Pasta for up to 2 months. Use a freezer-safe container, and ensure it’s tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn. Thawing: To enjoy your frozen pasta, transfer it to the fridge overnight to thaw. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of broth to help revive its creamy texture. Reheating: Avoid microwaving directly; instead, reheat slowly in a pot while stirring occasionally, ensuring it’s warmed through without drying out. Expert Tips for Buffalo Chicken Pasta Cream Cheese Prep: Allow cream cheese to come to room temperature before adding it to prevent clumping in your sauce. Chicken Tenderness: When boiling the chicken, ensure a gentle simmer to keep it tender; overcooking can result in a tough texture. Pasta Timing: Stir the pasta occasionally while cooking; this helps avoid sticking and ensures even cooking for your Buffalo Chicken Pasta. Cheese Quality: Always shred cheese from a block rather than using pre-shredded varieties for better meltability and flavor. Heat Adjustment: If you’re sensitive to spices, start with less buffalo sauce and gradually increase it until you get your desired heat level. What to Serve with One Pot Buffalo Chicken Pasta Imagine a cozy evening with tantalizing aromas wafting through your home, creating the perfect backdrop for family gathering around the table. Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky bites are ideal for sopping up the creamy sauce, enhancing every delicious mouthful of pasta. Crisp Green Salad: A refreshing mix of lettuce, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the buffalo chicken, providing balance. Roasted Broccoli: Tender-crisp and lightly charred, roasted broccoli adds a delightful crunch and complementary flavor, ensuring a healthier meal alongside your pasta. Coleslaw: The creamy, crunchy texture of coleslaw contrasts beautifully with the smooth pasta, making it a delightful side that adds color and zest. Cheesy Corn Casserole: This comforting side dish, rich with flavor, pairs harmoniously with the spicy notes of your buffalo chicken, creating a comforting meal. Chilled White Wine: The crisp acidity of a Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio refreshes the palate and elevates your dining experience. To complete your meal, don’t forget a sweet ending—consider serving up some brownies or a light fruit sorbet that cleanses the palate after the spicy delight of buffalo chicken pasta! Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right chicken for this recipe? Absolutely! You can use fresh boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best results. However, if you’re in a pinch or have leftovers, shredded rotisserie chicken works beautifully too. The key is to ensure your chicken is moist and flavorful, as it’s the star of this Buffalo Chicken Pasta. What’s the best way to store leftover Buffalo Chicken Pasta? Very! To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to help loosen the sauce if it thickens too much during storage. Can I freeze Buffalo Chicken Pasta? Absolutely! You can freeze Buffalo Chicken Pasta for up to 2 months. To do this, let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container and seal it tightly to prevent freezer burn. Label it with the date, so you remember when you made it! How do I thaw and reheat the frozen Buffalo Chicken Pasta? Very! To thaw, simply move the frozen pasta to the fridge overnight. When you’re ready to reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth as needed to revive its creamy texture—this will ensure each bite is as delicious as the first! What can I do if my buffalo sauce is too spicy? If you find the buffalo sauce is too fiery for your taste, don’t worry! You can balance the heat by stirring in a bit more cream cheese or adding extra cheddar and mozzarella cheese to cut through the spiciness. Additionally, serving it with a side of ranch dressing can help to mellow the heat for those who prefer a milder flavor. Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies with this dish? Very! While this Buffalo Chicken Pasta is delicious for humans, it’s not suitable for pets, especially due to the presence of garlic and rich sauces. If you’re serving this to friends or family with allergies, keep an eye out for dairy sensitivities since this dish contains both cream cheese and multiple types of cheese. Buffalo Chicken Pasta That'll Spice Up Your Weeknight Dinner A delicious Buffalo Chicken Pasta recipe that transforms your weeknight dinners with creamy sauce and succulent chicken. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 550 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken2 pounds Boneless, skinless chicken breasts1/2 cup Blue cheese dressing or ranch dressing as a substituteFor the Pasta12 ounces Penne pasta other shapes can be used2 tablespoons Butter dividedFor the Sauce1 cup Buffalo sauce adjust to heat preference8 ounces Cream cheese softened1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese shred from a block1 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese shred from a blockFor the Veggies1 medium Yellow onion finely diced2 stalks Celery diced2 cloves Garlic minced14.5 ounces Diced tomatoes undrained2 cups Chicken brothFor the Toppings1 teaspoon Red pepper flakes optional Equipment Potlarge skillet Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBegin by bringing a pot of water to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Carefully add the boneless, skinless chicken breasts and allow them to cook for about 15 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the chicken, shred it, and toss with blue cheese dressing.In a large skillet, melt half of the butter over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and celery, sautéing for about 5 minutes until tender. Stir in the minced garlic for another minute.Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Add the penne pasta, cover, and cook for 10-13 minutes, stirring occasionally.Reduce the heat to low and stir in the buffalo sauce, cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and mozzarella until melted. Mix in the shredded chicken and adjust seasoning with red pepper flakes if desired.Swirl in the remaining butter, stirring until melted. Serve hot and enjoy! Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg NotesAllow cream cheese to come to room temperature to prevent clumping in the sauce. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
