Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stirred the bubbling pot on the stove, a whiff of spicy buffalo sauce and creamy goodness filled the kitchen, and I couldn’t help but smile. This Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta has become my go-to dish for those hectic weeknights when comfort food is a must. With tender chicken and fragrant spices enveloped in a dreamy sauce, each bite is a delightful indulgence. Not only is it quick to whip up—perfect for busy evenings—but it also caters to those cravings for rich, hearty flavors without sacrificing time. Whether you make it for the family or a gathering with friends, this pasta dish promises to be a crowd-pleaser. Ready to dive into a deliciously comforting adventure? Let’s get cooking! Why Is This Pasta Recipe Special? Simplicity at Its Best: This Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta is incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal cooking skills and just a handful of ingredients. Hearty Comfort Food: It’s the perfect remedy for busy weeknights, providing that satisfying warmth you crave without hours in the kitchen. Flavorful Twist: The blend of creamy sauce with the spicy kick of buffalo sauce creates a unique taste that keeps your taste buds excited. Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress. Serve it alongside a fresh side salad or some crispy garlic bread for an even more inviting meal. Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap in your favorite proteins or cheeses, making it adaptable to any dietary preference. Try it with shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option! Meal Prep Friendly: Leftovers store beautifully in the fridge—just reheat and enjoy that creamy goodness again. This is a weeknight hero you’ll love to have on repeat! Buffalo Chicken Pasta Ingredients For the Pasta • Gemelli Pasta – A delightful base for this dish, can be swapped with any pasta shape you have on hand. For the Chicken • Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – The protein star here, replaced easily with chicken thighs for a juicier bite or pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for speed. For the Seasonings • Onion Powder – Adds savory depth; feel free to substitute with fresh onions for a vibrant flavor. • Garlic Powder – Enhances the flavor profile; fresh minced garlic can deliver a more robust taste. • Paprika – Offers warmth and color; smoked paprika can provide a delightful alternative. • Kosher Salt & Ground Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your taste, especially when preparing this buffalo chicken pasta! For Frying and Sauce Building • Vegetable Oil – Perfect for frying chicken; olive oil can serve as a healthier alternative. • Unsalted Butter – Adds richness to the sauce; oil is a viable substitute for a dairy-free option. • Yellow Onion – A key flavor component; consider shallots or leeks for a subtle twist. For the Creamy Sauce • Heavy Whipping Cream – Creates the luxurious texture of the sauce; half-and-half can be used for a lighter version with a slightly reduced creaminess. • Buffalo Sauce – The star flavoring agent; make your own for a customized kick or use store-bought for convenience. • Parmesan Cheese – Provides depth and richness; Pecorino Romano is a great substitute. • Mozzarella Cheese – Delivers that melty goodness; swap for provolone or cheddar if desired. • Dry Ranch Seasoning Mix – Infuses a delicious blend of herbs; a homemade mixture can be tailored to your taste. For Garnishing • Chopped Parsley – Ideal for adding a fresh touch; green onions can be a vibrant alternative. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Step 1: Cook Pasta Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the gemelli pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente, stirring occasionally. When done, drain the pasta and set it aside, allowing the steam to dissipate, so it doesn’t clump together. Step 2: Prepare Chicken While the pasta cooks, season your boneless skinless chicken breasts by sprinkling them with onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, then carefully place the chicken in the pan. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Tent the cooked chicken with foil to keep warm. Step 3: Make Sauce In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, scraping up any lovely bits left from the chicken. Add diced yellow onion and sauté for 5-8 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant, watching closely to avoid burning. Step 4: Add Cream and Cheeses Pour in 1 cup of heavy whipping cream and ½ cup of buffalo sauce, stirring to combine the flavors. Then, sprinkle in ½ cup of Parmesan cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese along with the dry ranch seasoning mix. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring constantly, until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy, adjusting seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Step 5: Combine Pasta and Chicken Carefully add the cooked gemelli pasta to the creamy sauce in the skillet, gently tossing to ensure every piece is well-coated. Slice the cooked chicken into strips and arrange it on top of the pasta. Let the dish simmer for a minute to reheat, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Step 6: Serve and Garnish Use a serving spoon to plate the creamy buffalo chicken pasta, ensuring you include some of that rich sauce. Garnish your creation with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley and additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately, and watch as your loved ones delight in this comforting and flavorful dish! How to Store and Freeze Buffalo Chicken Pasta Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cool the pasta completely before placing it in the fridge to maintain freshness. Freezer: To freeze, portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for the best texture. Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of cream to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between. Room Temperature: For safety, don’t leave buffalo chicken pasta out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Enjoy your meal while it’s fresh and hot! Buffalo Chicken Pasta Variations Customize your dish with these delightful twists for a unique culinary experience! Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream and a dairy-free cheese blend for a creamy texture without the dairy. Pasta Shape Swap: Try substituting gemelli with penne or bowtie pasta for a fun twist on classic shapes. Veggie Boost: Stir in sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and vibrant color. Spicy Upgrade: Add extra hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the sauce for those who crave an extra kick. Herb Infusion: Instead of dry ranch seasoning, experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme to elevate the flavor profile. Protein Alternatives: Substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a delicious variation that still satisfies. Sauce Variations: Use a spicy cheese sauce instead of buffalo sauce for a creamy, cheesy twist that’s just as flavorful. Creamy Pesto Addition: Mix in a little pesto with the cream and cheese for a delicious herbaceous flavor that complements the buffalo kick beautifully. For a wonderful combination, consider pairing this dish with a refreshing side salad or some crisp garlic bread from our Garlic Bread suggestions! Make Ahead Options These Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the pasta and sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cook the gemelli pasta and let it cool before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the sauce, combine the butter, onions, garlic, cream, buffalo sauce, and cheeses, and refrigerate it separately to keep everything fresh. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to regain its luscious texture. Toss in the pre-cooked pasta, and top with your sliced chicken for a weeknight dinner that tastes just as delicious as when you made it fresh! This method saves precious time and keeps your evenings stress-free. Tips for the Best Buffalo Chicken Pasta Even Chicken Thickness: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly—this prevents dry spots. Spice Control: Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce based on your spice tolerance. Start small and add more to reach your desired heat level. Perfect Creaminess: To achieve a smooth sauce, continually stir while adding the heavy cream and cheeses. This prevents clumping and ensures a rich buffalo chicken pasta experience. Don’t Overcook Pasta: Drain the gemelli once it’s al dente. Overcooked pasta will become mushy, which detracts from the dish’s overall texture. Add Fresh Veggies: For added nutrition, consider tossing in sautéed spinach or bell peppers. This not only enhances flavor but also makes the meal more vibrant and wholesome. What to Serve with Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Nothing pairs better with this delightful dish than sides that balance its bold flavors and creamy textures! Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery, garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the rich sauce, enhancing the cozy factor of your meal. Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar salad with crunchy romaine, creamy dressing, and savory croutons provides a crisp contrast to the pasta’s creaminess. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green florets of steamed broccoli add a nutritious touch, complementing the rich flavors while providing a pleasing crunch. Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy coleslaw offers a refreshing bite that cuts through the richness of the buffalo chicken pasta, creating a delightful balance. Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies, like bell peppers and carrots, add both texture and sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your meal. Sweet Tea or Lemonade: Sip on a refreshing glass of sweet tea or homemade lemonade. Their light, sweet flavors can soothe the heat from the buffalo sauce perfectly. Chocolate Chip Cookies: For a classic dessert finale, these warm, gooey cookies offer a sweet contrast to the savory pasta—a comforting end to your meal. Fruit Salad: A chilled fruit salad adds a refreshing and light finish to your dinner, balancing the hearty nature of the creamy buffalo chicken pasta. Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe FAQs What type of pasta should I use for this dish? You can use gemelli pasta as specified, but any pasta shape will work just as well! If you have some penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti on hand, feel free to swap it in. The key is to cook it until al dente for the best texture. How do I store leftovers of creamy buffalo chicken pasta? Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To keep it fresh, allow the pasta to cool completely before sealing. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of cream to bring back that creamy texture. Can I freeze creamy buffalo chicken pasta? Yes, you can! To freeze, portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers. It will last in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring in a little cream to help smooth out the sauce again. What if my sauce is too thick when reheating? No worries! If you find the sauce has thickened too much during storage, simply add a splash of heavy cream or milk while reheating, stirring until you achieve your desired creaminess. This will revive the sauce beautifully! Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind? Indeed! If you’re cooking for someone with lactose intolerance, you might consider using a dairy-free cream alternative in place of heavy cream and omitting the cheese or substituting with a lactose-free option. Furthermore, if your guests have gluten sensitivities, use gluten-free pasta and check that your buffalo sauce is gluten-free as well. How can I adjust the spice level of this dish? Very easy! If you prefer a milder flavor, start with a smaller amount of buffalo sauce, taste as you go, and gradually add more until you reach your comfort level. Conversely, if you’re craving extra heat, feel free to add a dash of cayenne pepper or more buffalo sauce to kick things up a notch! Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta That's Spicy and Satisfying This Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta is a quick, hearty dish combining spicy buffalo sauce and creamy goodness, perfect for busy weeknights. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 25 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 590 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta8 oz Gemelli Pasta Can be swapped with any pasta shape.For the Chicken1 lb Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts Can be substituted with chicken thighs or rotisserie chicken.For the Seasonings1 tsp Onion Powder Feel free to substitute with fresh onions.1 tsp Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic can be used.1 tsp Paprika Smoked paprika can be an alternative.1 tsp Kosher Salt Adjust to taste.1 tsp Ground Black Pepper Adjust to taste.For Frying and Sauce Building1 tbsp Vegetable Oil Olive oil is a healthier alternative.2 tbsp Unsalted Butter Oil can be substituted for a dairy-free option.1 medium Yellow Onion Shallots or leeks may be used.For the Creamy Sauce1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream Half-and-half can be used for a lighter version.1/2 cup Buffalo Sauce Make your own or use store-bought.1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Pecorino Romano can be substituted.1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Provolone or cheddar can be substituted.1 packet Dry Ranch Seasoning Mix A homemade mixture can be tailored.For Garnishing2 tbsp Chopped Parsley Green onions can be used as an alternative. Equipment large potskilletServing Spoon Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the gemelli pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.Season the chicken breasts with onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, kosher salt, and pepper. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 8-10 minutes until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Tent with foil to keep warm.In the same skillet, reduce the heat and melt unsalted butter. Add diced yellow onion and sauté for 5-8 minutes until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.Pour in heavy whipping cream and buffalo sauce, stirring to combine. Add Parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese along with the ranch seasoning mix. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.Add the cooked gemelli pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Slice the cooked chicken and arrange it on top. Simmer for 1 minute.Plate the pasta and garnish with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 590kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 35gFat: 34gSaturated Fat: 19gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 850mgPotassium: 665mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 350mgIron: 2mg NotesFor best results, pound the chicken to an even thickness and adjust buffalo sauce to suit your spice tolerance. Add fresh veggies for extra nutrition and color. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
