Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Discover the ultimate Buffalo Chicken Pasta recipe! This creamy, cheesy pasta dish combines tender shredded chicken, bold buffalo sauce, and melty cheeses for a comforting, flavorful dinner. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Customize with your favorite pasta and toppings for a crowd-pleasing dish everyone will love. Learn pro tips, variations, and serving ideas to elevate your pasta game!

Ingredients:

• Chicken:
  • 1 large boneless, skinless chicken breast (about 1 lb.)
  • ½ cup blue cheese dressing (or ranch as a substitute)
• Vegetables and Aromatics:
  • 2 tablespoons butter (divided)
  • ½ cup yellow onion, diced
  • 1 stick celery, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 14.5 oz. can diced tomatoes (undrained)
• Pasta and Sauce:
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 lb. penne pasta
  • ½ cup buffalo sauce
  • 8 oz. cream cheese, softened and cubed
  • 1½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons cold butter (optional)

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Instructions:

Prep Tip: Let cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese sit at room temperature before use for easier melting.

1. Cook and Shred the Chicken:
   • Place the chicken breast in a pot of water and bring to a gentle boil. Cook for 15 minutes or until fully cooked. Remove from the pot and shred using two forks.
   • Toss shredded chicken with blue cheese (or ranch) dressing and set aside.
   • Optional Pro Tip: Add 1-2 chicken bouillon cubes to the boiling water for extra flavor.
2. Prepare the Pasta Base:
   • Melt 1 tablespoon butter in a large, high-walled skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
   • Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
   • Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil and stir in the penne pasta.
   • Ensure the pasta is fully submerged, then cover the skillet. Cook for 10-13 minutes until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Test a noodle to confirm doneness before proceeding.
3. Create the Sauce:
   • Lower the heat to low and stir in buffalo sauce, cream cheese, and shredded cheeses. Use a silicone spatula to gently combine until the sauce is smooth and creamy. The sauce will thicken as it sits.
4. Combine and Finish:
   • Stir in the shredded chicken and red pepper flakes (if using).
   • Optional Chef’s Tip: For an ultra-smooth finish, swirl in 2 tablespoons of cold butter once the sauce has thickened (a technique called “Monter au Beurre”).
5. Serve:
   • Remove from heat and let sit for a few minutes to allow the sauce to thicken further. Serve warm and enjoy!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort Food Favorite: Creamy, cheesy, and packed with bold buffalo flavor.
• One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes, more flavor.
• Customizable: Easily adjust the heat level and ingredients to suit your taste.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining friends.

Tips

• Gentle Boiling: Avoid boiling chicken at high heat to keep it tender.
• Room Temperature Cheese: Softened cheeses melt more smoothly into the sauce.
• Prevent Sticking: Stir pasta occasionally while cooking and ensure it’s fully submerged in liquid.
• Thickness Control: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth. If too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Options: Swap chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked shrimp.
• Spice Level: Adjust buffalo sauce to control heat or mix in additional hot sauce for extra kick.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Pepper Jack cheese.
• Pasta Choices: Use rotini, farfalle, or rigatoni instead of penne.
• Vegetable Additions: Add bell peppers, carrots, or spinach for extra nutrition.

FAQs

Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken? A: Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time? A: Yes! Prepare the dish, cool it, and refrigerate. Reheat on the stove with a splash of chicken broth to restore creaminess.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat gently to maintain the creamy texture.

Serving and Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Serve with garlic bread or dinner rolls to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Garnish with chopped green onions, parsley, or crumbled blue cheese for added flavor.

Enjoy this rich, spicy, and satisfying Buffalo Chicken Pasta—a guaranteed hit for any occasion!