Name: Delicious Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta for Family Fun
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 ounces Pasta (penne or rotini); 1 tablespoon Olive Oil; 2 tablespoons Butter (unsalted); 1 pound Boneless, skinless chicken breast; 1 medium Shallot (finely chopped); 3 cloves Garlic (minced); 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste; 1 cup Chicken Stock (or vegetable broth); 8 ounces Light Cream Cheese; 1/2 cup Buffalo Wing Sauce (adjust to taste); 1/2 cup Ranch Dressing (or Greek yogurt); 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (grated); 1 cup Monterey Jack Cheese (grated); to taste Salt; to taste Pepper

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the bold flavors of buffalo sauce with creamy cheese and tender chicken over pasta. This recipe is family-friendly and perfect for busy weeknights, making it a go-to comfort food in my home. With its rich taste and easy preparation, it’s no wonder that this dish has gained popularity among pasta lovers. Let’s get started on this delicious journey!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta

This Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta is an absolute crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it’s quick to make, taking only 30 minutes from start to finish, which makes it ideal for busy evenings. Second, the creamy texture and spicy buffalo flavor create a perfect balance, satisfying those craving comfort food. Third, it’s a one-pot meal, meaning less cleanup for you! This recipe is designed to please kids and adults alike, making it a staple in many households. Plus, with its gluten-free diet option, it accommodates various dietary needs. You’ll find it versatile enough to adapt with different proteins or sauces, ensuring everyone can enjoy their own variation of this easy creamy buffalo chicken pasta.

Ingredients for Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Gather these items:

8 ounces Pasta (penne or rotini)
1 tablespoon Olive Oil
2 tablespoons Butter (unsalted)
1 pound Boneless, skinless chicken breast
1 medium Shallot (finely chopped)
3 cloves Garlic (minced)
2 tablespoons Tomato Paste
1 cup Chicken Stock (or vegetable broth)
8 ounces Light Cream Cheese
1/2 cup Buffalo Wing Sauce (adjust to taste)
1/2 cup Ranch Dressing (or Greek yogurt)
1 cup Cheddar Cheese (grated)
1 cup Monterey Jack Cheese (grated)
to taste Salt
to taste Pepper

How to Make Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Step-by-Step

Step 1: Cook pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water for 1 minute less than the package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: In a large pan over medium heat, warm olive oil and melt butter together. Add diced chicken pieces, cooking for about 6-7 minutes until they are thoroughly cooked and no longer pink inside.
Step 3: Introduce shallots and garlic to the pan, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until they’re fragrant and softened.
Step 4: Mix in the tomato paste, followed by the chicken stock. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat.
Step 5: Stir in the light cream cheese, letting it blend into the sauce until completely melted and bubbling for about 1-2 minutes.
Step 6: Pour in the buffalo wing sauce and ranch dressing, mixing until fully integrated.
Step 7: Gently fold in the drained pasta, gradually adding reserved water until the dish reaches the desired creamy consistency.
Step 8: Sprinkle in the grated cheeses, stirring until they melt into the sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
For extra heat, increase the amount of buffalo wing sauce.
Consider using Greek yogurt instead of ranch dressing for a healthier twist.
Cook the chicken until golden brown for added flavor.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Serve this dish warm, garnished with fresh parsley or green onions for added color and flavor. Pair it with a simple side salad for a complete meal. You can also serve it as a comforting buffalo chicken pasta bake by transferring it to a baking dish, topping with additional cheese, and baking until bubbly.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta

This meal can be easily stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or water to maintain creaminess. This makes it a great option for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta

What’s the secret to perfect Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta?

The key to perfect Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta lies in balancing the flavors of the buffalo sauce and cream cheese. Be sure to adjust the sauce to your taste and ensure the chicken is cooked properly for a tender bite.

Can I make Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta ahead of time. Just follow the cooking instructions and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently before serving to maintain its creamy texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure not to overcook the pasta and chicken, as this can lead to a mushy texture. Also, be careful not to add too much buffalo sauce at once; gradually incorporate it to reach your desired spice level.

Variations of Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta You Can Try

Try adding cooked vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition. You can also swap out the chicken for shrimp or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Experiment with different types of pasta or sauces to create your own unique version of this spicy buffalo pasta recipe.

For more delicious recipes, check out Buffalo Garlic Chicken Bites or Creamy Tuscan Scallops. If you’re interested in a sweet treat, try Grandma Carter’s Peanut Butter Cookies for dessert!