Cheesy Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Quick and Comforting Buffalo Chicken Pasta

These buffalo chicken pasta bowls are a family-friendly favorite, combining tender shredded chicken with rich creamy cheese and a spicy kick. In just under 30 minutes, you can turn simple ingredients into a delicious meal that will delight everyone at the table.

Picture this: it’s a chilly evening, and the house is filled with the tantalizing aroma of spicy buffalo sauce mingling with creamy cheese. The kids are gathered around the dining table, excited for a hearty pasta dish that brings everyone together. This is not just another weeknight dinner; it’s a cozy moment that wraps your family in warmth and flavor. Inspired by the missing original flavors of buffalo wings, this dish is guaranteed to make you feel good and satisfied.

Quick and Comforting Buffalo Chicken Pasta

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A family-friendly favorite, this buffalo chicken pasta combines tender shredded chicken with creamy cheese and a spicy kick, all in under 30 minutes!

• Author: anytimesrecipegmail-com
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten-Free

Ingredients

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• 1 large boneless skinless chicken breast (1 lb.)
• ½ cup blue cheese dressing (can sub ranch)
• 2 tablespoons butter (divided)
• ½ cup yellow onion (diced)
• 1 stick celery (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 14.5 oz. diced tomatoes (undrained, 1 can)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 lb. penne pasta
• ½ cup buffalo sauce
• 8 oz. cream cheese (softened and cubed)
• 1.5 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

1. Set the cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese out ahead of time to reach near room temperature.
2. In a pot, bring water to a boil and cook the chicken breast for 15-20 minutes, or until fully cooked. Remove and shred the chicken.
3. In the same pot, add the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Stir in the penne and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add onions, celery, and garlic, sautéing until softened.
5. Stir in shredded chicken, diced tomatoes, buffalo sauce, and remaining butter until mixed and heated.
6. Reduce heat to low and stir in cream cheese until melted and creamy. Mix in cooked pasta, cheddar, and mozzarella until cheese is melted and combined.
7. Optionally, sprinkle with red pepper flakes for extra kick.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in buffalo sauce before cooking. Add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for nutrition, or substitute with whole wheat pasta for a lighter version.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 700
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 16g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 70g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 40g
• Cholesterol: 100mg

Why bother with Buffalo Chicken Pasta?

When you crave something that’s both comforting and quick to prepare, this buffalo chicken pasta hits the spot. With just 30 minutes of your time, you bring together protein, carbs, and veggies into a delicious meal that will impress even the pickiest eaters.

How to make Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Ingredients:

• 1 large boneless skinless chicken breast (equal to 1 lb.)
• ½ cup blue cheese dressing (can sub ranch)
• 2 Tablespoons butter (divided)
• ½ cup yellow onion (diced)
• 1 stick celery (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 14.5 oz. diced tomatoes (undrained, 1 can)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 lb. penne
• ½ cup buffalo sauce
• 8 oz. cream cheese (softened and cubed)
• 1.5 cups cheddar (shredded)
• 1 cup mozzarella (shredded)
• 1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons cold butter (optional)

Directions:

1. PRO Tip: Set the cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese out ahead of time. We want them near room temperature when we add them to the pasta.
2. Gently Boil/Shred the Chicken: In a pot, bring some water to a boil and cook the chicken breast for 15-20 minutes or until fully cooked. Remove the chicken and shred it with two forks when it’s cool enough to handle.
3. Prepare the Pasta: In the same pot, add the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Stir in the penne and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat, then add the onions, celery, and garlic, sautéing until the onions soften. Stir in the shredded chicken, diced tomatoes, buffalo sauce, and the remaining butter until it’s nicely mixed and heated through.
5. Reduce heat to low and stir in the cream cheese until it’s melted and creamy. Finally, mix in the cooked pasta, cheddar, and mozzarella, allowing the cheese to melt and become gooey while combining all the delicious flavors together.
6. If desired, sprinkle with red pepper flakes for that extra kick!

How to serve Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Serve this delicious buffalo chicken pasta in warm bowls, garnished with a drizzle of blue cheese dressing and extra buffalo sauce for those who dare! Don’t forget to pair it with a side salad or some garlic bread for a hearty meal.

How to store Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Leftovers of this creamy delight can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed to regain that creamy texture.

Tips to make Buffalo Chicken Pasta even better

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken with buffalo sauce prior to cooking.
• Try incorporating vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition.
• If you prefer a lighter version, substitute whole wheat pasta and reduced-fat cream cheese.

Variations for Buffalo Chicken Pasta

• Swap the buffalo sauce for barbecue sauce for a sweeter take on this dish.
• For a vegetarian option, replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time to ensure that the chicken is cooked thoroughly.

What if I don’t like spicy food?

You can reduce the amount of buffalo sauce or use a milder sauce.

Can I make this in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dish ahead of time and bake it before serving. Just add a little extra liquid when reheating to keep it creamy.

Enjoy making this delicious Buffalo Chicken Pasta, and feel free to share it with your loved ones. It’s sure to become a staple in your family’s favorite recipe collection!