If you crave the perfect combination of spicy, creamy, and cheesy flavors all in one comforting bowl, this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe is going to be your new best friend. It’s a dish that brings together tender shredded chicken, zesty buffalo wing sauce, gooey cheese, and perfectly cooked penne pasta for a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this recipe is packed with bold flavors and simple ingredients that make dinner both effortless and utterly delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe plays a crucial role in creating that unbeatable balance of spice, creaminess, and heartiness. From the tangy buffalo sauce to the rich cheeses, each item adds depth and texture that make this dish pop.
- 1 pound penne pasta: The perfect pasta shape to hold onto the creamy sauce and shredded chicken in every bite.
- 1 package (8 ounce) cream cheese, softened: Adds luxurious creaminess and smooth texture to the sauce.
- ½ cup buffalo wing sauce (Frank’s RedHot recommended): The star of the dish that delivers just the right amount of spicy heat.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Helps thin out the sauce slightly while boosting flavor complexity.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds subtle savory notes to elevate the overall taste.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Brings all the flavors together and balances out the spice.
- 1 pound cooked chicken breast or thigh, shredded: Tender, juicy protein that soaks up all the sauce beautifully.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Offers gooey, mild melty goodness in every bite.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Delivers sharpness that complements the buffalo sauce perfectly.
- ¼ cup ranch or blue cheese dressing (optional): Provides a cool, creamy finish if you love that classic buffalo wing dip vibe.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the pasta
Start by cooking your penne pasta until it’s perfectly al dente according to the package directions. This ensures each bite has a pleasant, slight firmness that won’t get mushy when combined with the sauce. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside so it’s ready to be mixed in later.
Step 2: Prepare the sauce
While the pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and combine the softened cream cheese, buffalo wing sauce, and chicken broth over medium heat. Stir constantly as the cream cheese melts away and everything comes together into a smooth, rich sauce that’s bursting with flavor.
Step 3: Season the sauce
To deepen the flavor, add garlic powder and kosher salt to the sauce, whisking continuously to make sure every bit is well blended. This seasoning step is key to balancing the spicy heat with savory undertones that make the sauce irresistible.
Step 4: Combine chicken and pasta
Next, toss the shredded cooked chicken and drained pasta into the sauce. Stir everything gently but thoroughly so the buffalo chicken pasta recipe coating is even and deliciously creamy throughout.
Step 5: Add the cheeses
Lastly, fold in the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. Allow the cheese to melt completely and incorporate into the pasta, elevating the dish with that classic, cheesy comfort that we all crave.
Step 6: Serve immediately
Once everything is heated through and the cheese is melted, remove from heat. For an extra touch, drizzle with ranch or blue cheese dressing to add that cool, tangy kick that pairs perfectly with the spicy buffalo sauce.
How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Give your dish a little pop by topping it with chopped green onions or fresh celery slices for crunch. A sprinkle of extra shredded cheese or a drizzle of cool ranch dressing adds contrast and visual appeal, transforming your meal into something that looks just as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
Buffalo Chicken Pasta pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or crunchy garlic bread. These accompaniments offer refreshing textures and flavors that complement the richness of the pasta without overwhelming it.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this recipe in mini cast iron skillets for individual portions or layer it in a casserole dish topped with breadcrumbs and extra cheese, then bake until golden and bubbly. These presentation ideas make it perfect for parties, potlucks, or cozy family dinners.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe keeps well when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making your leftovers just as tasty as the first serving.
Freezing
This pasta freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months, giving you a quick, satisfying meal whenever the craving strikes.
Reheating
When reheating, warm the pasta gently over low heat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little chicken broth or water if the sauce is too thick. This helps bring back that creamy texture without drying out the dish.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooked chicken breast?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and adds extra flavor since it’s already seasoned and tender.
Is this recipe very spicy?
The heat level mainly depends on the buffalo wing sauce you use. Frank’s RedHot is moderately spicy, but you can adjust the amount to make it milder or hotter.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, just swap the penne for your favorite gluten-free pasta to keep it safe for gluten-sensitive diners.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you want a lighter option, you can try Greek yogurt or a blend of sour cream and heavy cream, but cream cheese gives the best creamy, tangy texture.
Can I double this recipe?
Definitely. Just keep your skillet or pot large enough to comfortably mix everything without spilling.
Final Thoughts
This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe is an absolute game changer for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. It’s super easy to make, full of bold, comforting flavors, and guaranteed to become a favorite at your table. Don’t hesitate to whip up a batch—you’re going to love how creamy, spicy, and satisfying this dish is with every single bite.
Print
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A creamy, spicy Buffalo Chicken Pasta dish that combines tender penne pasta with a rich buffalo wing sauce cream cheese blend, shredded chicken, and melted cheeses for a comforting and flavorful meal. Ready in just 30 minutes, this one-pan recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner with a spicy kick.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 pound penne pasta
Sauce
- 1 package (8 ounce) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup buffalo wing sauce (Frank’s RedHot recommended)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
Protein
- 1 pound cooked chicken breast or thigh, shredded
Cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Toppings (Optional)
- ¼ cup ranch or blue cheese dressing
Instructions
- Cook Pasta. Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside to prepare the sauce.
- Make Sauce. In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the softened cream cheese, buffalo wing sauce, and chicken broth. Simmer the mixture while stirring constantly until the cream cheese is fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Season. Add the garlic powder and kosher salt to the sauce. Whisk thoroughly until all seasonings are well combined into the sauce.
- Add Chicken and Pasta. Stir in the shredded cooked chicken along with the cooked penne pasta. Toss everything together to ensure the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the buffalo sauce blend.
- Add Cheese. Fold in the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese, stirring gently until the cheeses are completely melted and incorporated into the pasta mixture.
- Serve. Remove the skillet from heat and serve the buffalo chicken pasta immediately. For an extra creamy touch, drizzle with ranch or blue cheese dressing if desired.
Notes
- Use cooked chicken breast or thigh according to your preference; shredded works best for even distribution.
- Adjust the buffalo wing sauce quantity to control the spiciness level to your taste.
- For a thicker sauce, reduce the chicken broth slightly or cook the sauce a bit longer before adding pasta.
- This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Optionally garnish with sliced green onions or chopped celery for added crunch.
