Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe

This Buffalo Chicken Pasta is a quick and easy weeknight meal that’s bursting with flavor! Tender chicken, perfectly cooked penne pasta, and a creamy, spicy buffalo sauce come together in just 30 minutes for a dish that’s sure to satisfy your comfort food cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful: The combination of buffalo sauce, cream cheese, and Monterey Jack cheese creates a creamy and indulgent sauce with a spicy kick.
• Quick and easy: This one-pot meal is ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Satisfying: The chicken and pasta provide a hearty and filling meal.
• Versatile: You can easily adjust the spiciness to your liking by adding more or less hot sauce.

this Recipe

Ingredients for Buffalo Chicken Pasta

This recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients to create a flavorful and satisfying pasta dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking.
• Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Cayenne Pepper, Salt: Seasonings that add flavor to the chicken.
• Cooking Oil: For browning the chicken.
• Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the sauce.
• Penne Pasta: A tubular pasta that holds the sauce well.
• Petite Diced Tomatoes: Adds acidity and sweetness to the sauce.
• Chicken Broth: Creates a flavorful base for the sauce.
• Cream Cheese: Adds a creamy texture to the sauce.
• Hot Sauce: Use your favorite hot sauce to add a spicy kick.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a depth of flavor to the sauce.
• Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese: Adds a cheesy, melty finish.
• Green Onions (optional): For garnish.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Combine the garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and salt, then sprinkle the mixture over the chicken pieces. Toss to coat evenly.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Heat the cooking oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides. The chicken does not need to be cooked through at this point.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Add the uncooked pasta, canned diced tomatoes (undrained), and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir to dissolve any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid and bring the broth to a strong simmer. Briefly stir the pasta, replace the lid, and reduce the heat to medium-low. Simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir once or twice during cooking.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Once the pasta is tender and only a small amount of thickened liquid remains, add the cream cheese (cut into chunks), butter, hot sauce, and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet. Stir and cook over medium-low heat until the cream cheese has melted into the sauce.

Step 5: Add the Cheese and Serve

Add the shredded Monterey Jack cheese and stir until melted into the sauce. Top with sliced green onions, if desired, and serve hot.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Chicken: You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts.
• Spice level: Adjust the amount of hot sauce to your liking.
• Cheese: You can use other types of cheese, such as cheddar cheese or a Mexican blend.

How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Pasta

• Weeknight dinner: This pasta dish is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal.
• Game day: It’s also a great option for serving at a game day gathering or party.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Buffalo Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use other types of pasta, such as rotini, farfalle, or even spaghetti.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the chicken and pasta ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Combine and reheat the ingredients with the sauce just before serving.

Can I freeze this recipe?
It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh, as freezing and thawing can affect the texture of the pasta.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can! Simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more vegetables, such as broccoli or cauliflower.

There you have it! A simple and delicious recipe for Buffalo Chicken Pasta. I hope you enjoy it!

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