Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe

Creamy, spicy, and absolutely unforgettable, this Buffalo Chicken Pasta is that weeknight dinner you’ll want to make again (and again!). Combining the tangy punch of buffalo sauce with juicy shredded chicken, melty cheeses, and tender pasta, every bite delivers comfort and excitement in equal measure. The blue cheese or ranch dressing takes the creaminess to new heights, while a handful of simple vegetables and a few big flavors bring it all together. Whether you need a quick meal for family or a crave-worthy party dish, Buffalo Chicken Pasta checks all the boxes for flavor and ease.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how each one of these common ingredients creates a layer of flavor in the finished dish. With just a few staples like chicken, hot sauce, and cheese, you end up with something truly satisfying—don’t skip anything, each plays an important role in taste, texture, or color!

• Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless, and tender, this is the star of your Buffalo Chicken Pasta, soaking up all the spicy flavors.
• Blue Cheese Dressing (or Ranch): Adds a decadent creaminess and signature buffalo flavor—pick your favorite for a custom twist.
• Butter: Divided for sautéing veggies and finishing the sauce with a luscious, restaurant-worthy sheen.
• Yellow Onion: Brings a mellow, sweet base to the savory sauce.
• Celery: Diced for that classic buffalo crunch and a pop of fresh flavor.
• Garlic: Just three cloves, but oh does it make the sauce sing with savory depth.
• Diced Tomatoes: Use one (14.5 oz) can, undrained, for juicy tang and a lovely red color.
• Chicken Broth: Simmer the pasta in it for rich flavor in every bite.
• Penne Pasta: One pound for perfectly saucy bites; the tube shape holds all that delicious sauce.
• Buffalo Sauce: This is where the real magic happens—spicy, punchy, and totally addictive.
• Cream Cheese: Softened and cubed for the dreamy, ultra-creamy sauce texture.
• Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar is so bold and melty, rounding out the buffalo profile.
• Mozzarella Cheese: For stretch and extra gooeyness, it pairs beautifully with cheddar.
• Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): A pinch adds fire—go wild if you love heat!
• Cold Butter (Optional): Finish with a pat or two to make the sauce truly silky and glossy.

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Boil and Shred the Chicken

Start by placing your chicken breast in a pot of water, then gently bring it to a boil. Let it softly bubble for about 15 minutes so it cooks through but stays juicy. Once done, grab two forks and shred it right away for that perfect pulled texture. Next, toss the still-warm chicken with blue cheese or ranch dressing, so it absorbs all that creamy tang while it rests—this step really brings true Buffalo Chicken Pasta magic!

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Melt half the butter in a big, high-sided skillet (more room for tossing pasta later!) over medium heat. Sauté diced onions and celery until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Stir in your garlic and let it cook just a minute longer—you’ll start smelling those mouthwatering savory notes that signal the sauce is off to a great start.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth, Then Cook the Pasta

Pour the undrained diced tomatoes and chicken broth right into the skillet. Bring the mixture up to a boil, then add all of the penne. Gently submerge the pasta so it cooks evenly, then cover and boil for 10 to 13 minutes. It’s best to check your pasta a minute or two before the recommended package time—remember, we want it al dente since it will cook a bit longer in the sauce. Give it a gentle stir every now and then to keep anything from sticking.

Step 4: Stir in Buffalo Sauce and Cheeses

Reduce heat to low, then add the buffalo sauce, cream cheese, cheddar, and mozzarella. Stir gently but thoroughly with a silicone spatula until the cheese melts and the sauce comes together—at first it’ll seem thin, but give it a minute or two to thicken. This is where Buffalo Chicken Pasta begins to look irresistible, with that signature spicy aroma and creamy texture.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Add your shredded, dressed chicken to the skillet. If you crave a little extra heat, sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes now. You’ll see the sauce thicken to a dreamy consistency as everything warms through. For a restaurant-level finish, swirl in a couple tablespoons of cold butter. This quick butter swirl (chefs call it “Monter au Beurre”) makes the sauce glossy, luscious, and totally unforgettable.

How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

The final flourish is all about personal taste! Try crumbled blue cheese or crisp green onions for color and flavor. A sprinkle of fresh parsley brings brightness, while an extra drizzle of buffalo sauce makes each plate pop with spicy color.

Side Dishes

While Buffalo Chicken Pasta is hearty on its own, it loves a simple green salad tossed in ranch or blue cheese dressing. Some warm, crusty garlic bread on the side helps scoop up every last bit of creamy sauce, and a platter of celery sticks pays homage to classic buffalo wings.

Creative Ways to Present

Make it the star of your game day buffet by baking scoops of pasta in ramekins with extra melted cheese on top. Or, serve family style in a big, colorful bowl for a laidback dinner where everyone digs in. For parties, try serving it in mini cups or lettuce boats—Buffalo Chicken Pasta is always a crowd pleaser, no matter how you plate it!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Buffalo Chicken Pasta will make your future self so happy! After it cools a bit, transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen as it sits, making for a seriously tasty reheated meal.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze individual or family-size portions in freezer-safe containers. Buffalo Chicken Pasta holds up well for up to 2 months—just let it cool completely before packing to avoid freezer burn and keep everything tasting fresh.

Reheating

To reheat, cover and microwave gently, or warm in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk if the sauce needs loosening up. Stir well and heat just until creamy and steaming—add a bit more cheese or buffalo sauce for a next-day flavor boost!

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for Buffalo Chicken Pasta?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut—just shred about a pound, toss with dressing, and proceed with the recipe as written. It adds even more flavor and saves a step.

Is Buffalo Chicken Pasta very spicy?

The heat depends on your buffalo sauce and whether you add the optional red pepper flakes. Use mild buffalo sauce for less heat, or choose a hot version (and add a pinch of flakes) if you love that spicy kick.

Can I substitute a different pasta shape?

You sure can! Penne is classic because it holds the sauce so well, but rotini, rigatoni, or shells are equally perfect for scooping up all that creamy, cheesy goodness.

What’s the best cheese for this dish?

A blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella gives Buffalo Chicken Pasta its signature flavor and stretchy, creamy texture, but you can play around with Monterey Jack or provolone for subtle variations.

How do I make Buffalo Chicken Pasta gluten-free?

Simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check that your buffalo sauce and dressing are certified gluten-free. The rest of the recipe works just the same!

Final Thoughts

There’s just something irresistible about spicy, creamy, cheesy Buffalo Chicken Pasta—it’s the kind of dish that brings people running to the table. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking to satisfy a craving, this recipe will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen. Give it a try and watch it disappear!

Print