Buffalo Chicken Pasta

If you’re craving a dish that’s bold, creamy, and packed with flavor, look no further than Buffalo Chicken Pasta! This easy, one-pan meal combines juicy chicken, tender pasta, and tangy buffalo sauce, creating the perfect balance of heat and comfort. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or as a game day meal, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Buffalo Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food with a kick. The creamy, cheesy sauce is infused with the signature spicy flavor of Buffalo sauce, while the addition of diced chicken and hearty rotini pasta makes this dish a satisfying meal. It’s quick to make, taking only about 25 minutes from start to finish, and it’s sure to be a hit with anyone who loves bold flavors and cheesy pasta dishes.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1 cup onion, diced

• 1/2 cup celery, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 3 cups chicken stock or broth

• 1 (14.5 ounce) can of diced tomatoes, undrained

• 3 1/2 cups dried Rotini

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed

• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded

• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

• 1/2 cup ranch dressing

• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (I use Frank’s)

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

• 3 cups cooked and diced chicken

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Sauté the Vegetables:

• Heat a large 12-inch skillet on medium-high heat and add the butter.

• Add the diced onions and celery. Cook for 2-3 minutes to soften.

• Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.

2. Cook the Pasta:

• Pour in the chicken stock and diced tomatoes, stirring to combine. Bring to a boil.

• Add the dried rotini pasta, ensuring it’s submerged in the liquid.

• Boil for 9-10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. If needed, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.

3. Make the Sauce:

• Reduce the heat to low and add the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, ranch dressing, buffalo sauce, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).

• Stir to combine and let simmer on low for 1-2 minutes, until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy.

4. Add the Chicken:

• Fold in the diced cooked chicken and mix until everything is well combined.

• Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper, if needed.

5. Serve:

• Serve the Buffalo Chicken Pasta hot, and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6 servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: If you like more heat, increase the amount of buffalo sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with roasted vegetables like cauliflower or mushrooms for a vegetarian take on the dish.

• Cheese Variety: You can experiment with different cheeses, like pepper jack for extra spice or gouda for a smoky flavor.

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive eaters.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to loosen up the sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of cooked chicken?

Yes, you can use cooked and diced chicken breasts. You can also cook the chicken from scratch before making the pasta or use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can swap out rotini for other types of pasta, such as penne, fusilli, or elbow macaroni.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While this dish is best served fresh, you can prep the ingredients and store them separately in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. The pasta and sauce will thicken in the fridge, so you may need to add a little extra broth when reheating.

4. How can I make this dish spicier?

If you want to amp up the spice, add more buffalo sauce, a dash of cayenne pepper, or some chopped jalapeños to the mix.

5. Can I freeze Buffalo Chicken Pasta?

Yes, you can freeze this dish. Store it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop, adding a little extra liquid if needed.

6. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can make this dish dairy-free by using dairy-free cream cheese, vegan cheese, and dairy-free ranch dressing.

7. What can I serve with Buffalo Chicken Pasta?

This pasta pairs well with a side of crispy garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables.

8. Can I add extra vegetables to the pasta?

Yes, you can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to make the dish more hearty and nutritious. Just sauté them with the onions and celery in the beginning.

9. Is the dish very spicy?

The level of spiciness depends on how much buffalo sauce and hot sauce you use. If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of hot sauce and use a mild buffalo sauce.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can easily double the recipe to serve a larger group. Just make sure to use a larger skillet or pot and adjust the cooking time as needed.

Conclusion

Buffalo Chicken Pasta is a quick, easy, and flavorful dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings for something cheesy, spicy, and hearty. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, game day, or any occasion when you want a comforting meal packed with bold flavors. With creamy cheese, tender pasta, and the right amount of heat, this dish will quickly become a family favorite. Enjoy every cheesy, spicy bite!

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