Buffalo Chicken Pasta: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Buffalo chicken pasta: just the name alone conjures up images of creamy, spicy, cheesy goodness, doesn’t it? I’m thrilled to share this recipe with you, because it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly simple to make. Forget ordering takeout; this dish delivers all the bold flavors of buffalo wings in a comforting pasta format, ready in under an hour!

The concept of buffalo chicken, of course, originates from the legendary Anchor Bar in Buffalo, New York, where, in 1964, Teressa Bellissimo whipped up a batch of fried chicken wings tossed in hot sauce for her son and his friends. That iconic flavor profile has since infiltrated countless dishes, and this buffalo chicken pasta is a delicious testament to its enduring appeal.

What’s not to love? The creamy sauce, the tender chicken, the satisfying bite of pasta, and that signature buffalo kick – it’s a symphony of flavors and textures that’s both comforting and exciting. People adore this dish because it’s incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, a game-day gathering, or even a potluck. Plus, it’s easily customizable to your spice preference. Whether you like a mild tingle or a fiery inferno, you can adjust the amount of hot sauce to create your perfect buffalo chicken pasta experience. Get ready to dive into a bowl of pure comfort food bliss!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup Buffalo wing sauce (Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Wing Sauce recommended)
• For the Pasta:
• 1 lb pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional, but highly recommended!)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
• Optional Toppings:
• Ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing
• Extra Buffalo wing sauce
• Chopped celery
• Chopped carrots

Preparing the Chicken:

1. Season the Chicken: In a large bowl, toss the chicken cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated with the spices. I like to use my hands to really get the seasoning in there!
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until it’s cooked through and lightly browned on all sides. This usually takes about 7-10 minutes, depending on the size of your chicken cubes. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; you may need to cook the chicken in batches to ensure even cooking.
3. Add Buffalo Sauce: Once the chicken is cooked, reduce the heat to low and pour in the Buffalo wing sauce. Stir to coat the chicken evenly. Let it simmer for a few minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld together. This step is crucial for that authentic Buffalo chicken flavor!
4. Set Aside: Remove the chicken from the heat and set aside while you prepare the pasta and cheese sauce.

Cooking the Pasta and Making the Cheese Sauce:

1. Cook the Pasta: While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Remember to reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining – this is liquid gold for creating a creamy sauce!
2. Drain the Pasta: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it well and set it aside.
3. Prepare the Cheese Sauce Base: In the same pot (or a separate large pot), melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
4. Add Cream Cheese and Milk: Reduce the heat to low and add the softened cream cheese to the pot. Stir constantly until the cream cheese is melted and smooth. This might take a few minutes, so be patient and keep stirring to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
5. Incorporate the Milk: Gradually pour in the milk, stirring constantly to create a smooth and creamy sauce. Make sure there are no lumps! If the sauce seems too thick, add a little more milk until you reach your desired consistency.
6. Add the Cheeses: Add the shredded cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, and crumbled blue cheese (if using) to the sauce. Stir until all the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. The blue cheese adds a fantastic tang, but it’s totally optional if you’re not a fan.
7. Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. The pasta water helps to bind the sauce and pasta together beautifully.
8. Season to Taste: Season the cheese sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that the Buffalo wing sauce is already quite salty, so start with a small amount and adjust as needed.

Assembling the Buffalo Chicken Pasta:

1. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the pot with the cheese sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Make sure every strand is covered in that cheesy goodness!
2. Add the Buffalo Chicken: Add the cooked Buffalo chicken to the pasta and cheese sauce. Gently stir to combine, being careful not to break up the chicken too much.
3. Simmer (Optional): If you want the flavors to meld together even more, you can simmer the pasta over low heat for a few minutes, stirring occasionally. This step is optional, but it can really enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
4. Serve and Garnish: Serve the Buffalo chicken pasta immediately. Garnish with chopped green onions and fresh cilantro (if using). I also like to offer ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping or drizzling.
5. Add Optional Toppings: Don’t forget the optional toppings! Chopped celery and carrots add a nice crunch and coolness to balance the heat of the Buffalo sauce. A drizzle of extra Buffalo wing sauce is always a welcome addition for those who like it extra spicy.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in the chicken and the amount of Buffalo wing sauce to control the spice level. If you’re sensitive to heat, start with a smaller amount and add more to taste.
• Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese in the sauce. Pepper jack cheese would add a nice kick, while provolone cheese would create a milder flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with cauliflower florets or chickpeas. Toss them with the same spices and cook them until tender before adding the Buffalo wing sauce.
• Make it Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and cheese sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, cook the pasta and combine everything together.
• Baking Option: For a baked version, transfer the assembled pasta to a greased baking dish. Top with extra cheese and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Slow Cooker Option: You can also make this in a slow cooker. Add the chicken, spices, and Buffalo sauce to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Shred the chicken with two forks, then stir in the cooked pasta and cheese sauce. Cook for another 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve as a main course for a casual weeknight dinner.
• Bring it to a potluck or party – it’s always a crowd-pleaser!
• Serve it as a game-day snack with plenty of napkins.
• Pair it with a side salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Buffalo chicken pasta! I hope you love it as much as I do!

Conclusion:

This Buffalo Chicken Pasta isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! Seriously, if you’re looking for a dish that’s quick, easy, and guaranteed to satisfy your cravings for something spicy and comforting, then look no further. The creamy sauce, the tender chicken, and that unmistakable buffalo kick – it all comes together in a symphony of deliciousness that will have you reaching for seconds (and maybe even thirds!).

I know, I know, you’re probably thinking, “Buffalo chicken pasta? I’ve seen it all before.” But trust me on this one. This recipe is different. It’s the perfect balance of heat and flavor, and it’s so versatile that you can easily customize it to your liking.

Think of it as a blank canvas for your culinary creativity! Feeling adventurous? Try adding some crumbled blue cheese or gorgonzola for an extra layer of tangy flavor. Want to cool things down a bit? A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt will do the trick. And if you’re looking to sneak in some extra veggies, feel free to toss in some chopped celery, carrots, or even some spinach.

Beyond the ingredients, the beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen. And it’s also a great option for feeding a crowd. Just double or triple the recipe, and you’ll have plenty to go around.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Serve it hot, straight from the pot, garnished with some fresh cilantro or parsley.
* For a more substantial meal, add a side salad or some garlic bread.
* Turn it into a baked casserole by topping it with some shredded cheese and baking it in the oven until bubbly and golden brown.
* Use different types of pasta, such as penne, rotini, or even macaroni.
* Experiment with different buffalo wing sauces to find your perfect level of heat.
* For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with some chickpeas or black beans.
* Add a sprinkle of green onions for a fresh, vibrant touch.
* Consider adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the buffalo sauce for a deeper, richer flavor.

But honestly, the best way to enjoy this Buffalo Chicken Pasta is to make it your own. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors until you find the perfect combination that suits your taste.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, fire up your stove, and get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

And once you’ve tried it, I’d love to hear what you think! Share your photos and comments on social media using #MyBuffaloChickenPasta or tag me in your posts. I can’t wait to see your creations and hear about your experiences. Happy cooking! I am confident that this recipe will become a staple in your household, just as it has in mine. Enjoy!