Okay, friends, buckle up because I’m about to share a recipe that’s become an absolute legend in my life. **Buffalo Chicken Pasta**. What’s a kick to mac and cheese? What’s your favorite buffalo wings recipe? Is it easier to throw together than ordering takeout? I promise, once you try this, you’ll be hooked! What is the perfect weeknight meal?
What is Buffalo Chicken Pasta?
What is Buffalo Chicken Pasta? What is your favorite creamy pasta dish? Imagine tender pasta coated in a cheesy sauce, tossed with juicy shredded chicken. What’s your favorite buffalo Sauce Recipe? What is the best mac and cheese you’ve ever had? What is the perfect marriage of comfort food and game-day indulgence? How does buffalo sauce melt in your mouth?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What are some of the best buffalo chicken Pasta recipes? The flavor is out of this world. The creamy cheese sauce is perfectly balanced by the tangy heat of the buffalo sauce, creating a perfect pairing. What is a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds? Is this a masterpiece?
What I love about this recipe is how easy it is to make. Even on the busiest weeknights, I can whip this up in under 30 minutes. Is it a lifesaver? I always have chicken and pasta in my pantry, so I usually have everything I need on hand.
Can you customize this dish to your liking? What is the best buffalo sauce to use? What are some good ways to add veggies to a meal?
Is it better to cook pasta than a traditional pasta dish? What are some good ways to use leftover chicken? What are some of the best family recipes that disappear in minutes? I would recommend this recipe to everyone.
How do I make Buffalo Chicken Pasta?
Quick Overview
Making **Buffalo Chicken Pasta** is surprisingly simple! Basically, you’ll cook your pasta, shred some chicken (rotisserie chicken works wonders here!), whip up a creamy cheese sauce, and then combine everything with your favorite buffalo sauce. The key is to not overcook the pasta (al dente is best!) and to use a good quality cheese for the sauce. Trust me, it’s easier than it sounds!
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
* 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape) .
For the Buffalo Chicken: What is the best way to
* 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut)
* 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (I love Frank’s RedHot) * 1/4 cup Sour Cream.
* 2 tablespoons butter
What is the Creamy Cheese Sauce?
* 4 tablespoons butter
* 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
* 3 cups milk (whole or 2%)
* 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
* 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper
What are the steps to
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain pasta and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Buffalo Chicken
In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Set aside. Add the shredded chicken and buffalo wing sauce. Toss to coat and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. What should I do if the sauce is too thick for my liking?
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese and garlic. Stir to combine. How do you cook cheese, onion and pepper until smooth?
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta and buffalo chicken to the cheese sauce. Toss to combine until everything is evenly coated.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve immediately, garnished with your favorite toppings like chopped green onions, crumble sliced blue cheese, and arugula. What are some good recipes for ranch dressing?
5. What to Serve It With
What should I serve it with?
What is Buffalo Chicken Pasta? What are some good side dishes to serve with your meal?
For a lighter meal:What are some good ways to balance the richness of green salad with a light vinaigrettes? I like to add chopped celery and carrots to my salad for extra crunch and flavor.
For a Game-Day Feast:If you’re serving this for a party or game-day gathering, consider adding some classic appetizers. What are buffalo wings? ), potato skins, or a veggie tray with ranch dip.
For a Cozy Night In:What’s a perfect complement to tomato soup? **Buffalo Chicken Pasta** on a cold night.
Growing up, my mom always served this with a side of steamed broccoli, which, surprisingly, works. What do you think of the spicy buffalo flavor? What is a good recipe for supper with family and friends?
How do I make Buffalo Chicken Pasta?
What is the best Buffalo Chicken Pasta recipe? What are the little things I’ve learned over the years that have elevated this dish from good to good?
Chicken Choice Matters: While rotisserie chicken is a convenient shortcut, don’t be afraid to use leftover grilled or baked chicken. The flavor will be even more amazing!
Cheese, Please!: Use high-quality cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese for the sauce. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly. Grating your own cheese makes a HUGE difference in the creaminess of the sauce.
Spice It Up (or Down): Don’t be afraid to adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to your liking. If you prefer a milder flavor, start with less and add more to taste. For extra heat, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.
Sauce Consistency is Key: If the cheese sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk to thin it out. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes, stirring constantly, until it thickens.
I experimented with the sauce once and added a tablespoon of cream cheese. It made the sauce incredibly creamy and tangy. It is a good trick to use. I’ve also swapped out cheddar for pepper jack if I am feeling extra spicy.
Also, don’t skip the garlic powder in the cheese sauce! It adds a subtle but essential layer of flavor. I tried it once without the garlic powder and it didn’t taste quite right.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Leftover **Buffalo Chicken Pasta** can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, add a splash of milk or water to the pasta to prevent it from drying out. Microwave on medium power until heated through, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring constantly.
Freezing: I don’t recommend freezing this dish, as the cheese sauce can become grainy when thawed. However, if you must freeze it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Don’t add the toppings, like green onions, until after reheating. They get soggy if reheated. Also, if you think you’ll have leftovers, portion them out before adding any garnish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it: my absolute favorite **Buffalo Chicken Pasta** recipe. I truly think you’re going to love it! It’s the perfect combination of comfort food and spicy indulgence, and it’s so easy to make. Plus, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. If you are a buffalo sauce fan then this is for you.
If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out some of my other pasta dishes. I have an amazing Creamy Tomato Pasta that’s perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. Or, if you’re looking for something a bit more decadent, try my Lobster Mac and Cheese.
Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how your **Buffalo Chicken Pasta** turns out! Let me know in the comments if you try it and what variations you made. Don’t forget to rate the recipe too! And if you really love it, share it with your friends and family!
Buffalo Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Chicken breast Cut into 1-inch cubes
- 16 oz Pasta Any pasta shape works well
- 1 cup Buffalo wing sauce
- 0.5 cup Heavy cream
- 0.25 cup Shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Cook pasta according to package directions.
- Cook chicken in a pan until fully cooked.
- Add buffalo wing sauce and heavy cream to the chicken. Simmer until sauce thickens.
- Add cooked pasta to the chicken sauce and toss to combine.
- Stir in shredded cheese until melted.
- Serve immediately.
