Creamy, spicy Buffalo Chicken Pasta loaded with cheese and packed with flavor—this dish is the ultimate comfort food. It’s an easy and satisfying meal that brings together the bold flavors of buffalo sauce, tender chicken, and gooey cheese in a creamy, irresistible sauce.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this buffalo chicken pasta because it’s quick, creamy, and full of bold flavors. It’s the perfect combination of spicy, cheesy, and comforting, making it a go-to meal for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s versatile—I can use any pasta shape, adjust the spice level, and even swap in different cheeses for variety.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or shells)
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup buffalo sauce
1/2 cup ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
Directions
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in the buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, cream cheese, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Add the shredded chicken to the skillet and mix well to coat it in the sauce.
Stir in the cooked pasta, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and everything is evenly coated.
Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions and crumbled blue cheese if desired.
Serve warm and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 450 kcal per serving
Variations
Make it spicier – Add a dash of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for extra heat.
Use different cheeses – Swap out cheddar for Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or Colby cheese for a unique flavor.
Add veggies – Stir in sautéed bell peppers, onions, or spinach for added texture and nutrients.
Swap the protein – Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or try cooked shrimp or ground turkey.
Make it lighter – Use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese and opt for a light ranch or blue cheese dressing.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to keep the sauce creamy. It can also be microwaved in short intervals, stirring in between.
Freezing: This dish isn’t ideal for freezing due to the dairy content, which can cause the sauce to separate.
FAQs
How can I make this dish less spicy?
I recommend using a mild buffalo sauce or reducing the amount and balancing it with extra ranch or blue cheese dressing.
What’s the best pasta for buffalo chicken pasta?
I like using penne, rotini, or shells because they hold the sauce well, but any pasta will work.
Can I use canned chicken?
Yes, canned chicken can be used for convenience, though freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken will have better texture and flavor.
What can I serve with buffalo chicken pasta?
I love serving it with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to balance out the richness.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! I prepare everything in advance, store it in the fridge, and reheat it when ready to serve. Adding a little extra sauce helps keep it from drying out.
Conclusion
Buffalo chicken pasta is the perfect combination of spicy, creamy, and cheesy goodness. It’s quick to make, customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether I’m making it for a busy weeknight or a casual dinner with friends, this dish never disappoints. Try it out and enjoy a comforting, flavor-packed meal.