Smoked Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe

This Smoked Buffalo Chicken Pasta is a creamy, cheesy, and smoky dish that’s perfect for a flavorful and satisfying meal! Imagine tender smoked chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich and creamy sauce with a hint of buffalo spice. This recipe is easy to make and delivers a unique and delicious twist on classic comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Smoked Flavor: Smoking the chicken infuses it with a delicious smoky flavor that elevates the entire dish.
• Creamy and Cheesy: The combination of Alfredo sauce, cream cheese, and mozzarella cheese creates a rich and creamy sauce that coats every noodle and piece of chicken.
• Spicy Kick: The buffalo sauce adds a delicious spicy kick that’s balanced by the creaminess of the sauce.
• Versatile: Feel free to customize the spice level or add your favorite vegetables for a complete meal.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: A flavorful and tender cut of chicken that’s perfect for smoking.
• Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning: Seasonings to enhance the flavor of the chicken.
• Minced garlic: Adds a fragrant and savory punch to the marinade.
• Buffalo Wild Wings Spicy Garlic Sauce: A convenient and flavorful sauce that adds a spicy kick. You can substitute with your favorite buffalo sauce.
• Cellentani pasta: A spiral-shaped pasta that’s perfect for holding the sauce.
• Alfredo sauce: Adds a creamy and cheesy base to the dish.
• Cream cheese: Adds richness and tanginess to the sauce.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a cheesy stretch.
• Ranch dressing: Adds a creamy and tangy flavor.
• Parmesan cheese: Grated and adds a salty and umami flavor as a garnish.
• Dried parsley: Adds a pop of color and fresh flavor as a garnish.

Note: For exact measurements, see the recipe card below!

How to Make Smoked Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl or container, combine the chicken thighs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, and buffalo sauce. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to overnight.

Step 2: Smoke the Chicken

Preheat your smoker to 250°F. Place the marinated chicken thighs directly on the smoker grates and cook for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken is smoking, cook the cellentani pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Assemble and Smoke the Pasta

Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the smoker and cut it into bite-sized cubes. In a smoker-safe dish, combine the cooked pasta, Alfredo sauce, cream cheese, ranch dressing, shredded mozzarella cheese, and cubed chicken. Stir well to combine. Sprinkle with a little more mozzarella cheese and place the dish back in the smoker. Smoke for 20-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove the Smoked Buffalo Chicken Pasta from the smoker and garnish with dried parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, and additional buffalo sauce, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use a meat thermometer: An instant-read thermometer is the best way to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Cook the pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly in the smoker.
• Adjust the spice level: Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to your liking, depending on how spicy you want the dish.
• Add other vegetables: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the pasta dish, such as diced bell peppers, broccoli florets, or sliced mushrooms.
• Make ahead: You can marinate the chicken and cook the pasta ahead of time. When ready to serve, assemble the dish and smoke as directed.

How to Serve

This Smoked Buffalo Chicken Pasta is delicious on its own, but here are some serving suggestions:

• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
• Garlic Bread: Crusty garlic bread is perfect for dipping and sopping up the extra sauce.
• Blue Cheese Dressing: Serve with a side of blue cheese dressing for dipping.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Smoked Buffalo Chicken Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but you can also prepare components ahead of time or store leftovers for later.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, you can! Other pasta shapes that would work well in this recipe include penne, rigatoni, or farfalle.

2. Can I make this recipe without a smoker? Yes, you can! You can bake the chicken in the oven at 375°F for about 30 minutes, or until cooked through. Then assemble the pasta dish and bake at 350°F for 20-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheese, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of Italian cheeses.

4. Can I add other seasonings to the dish? Definitely! Garlic powder, onion powder, or a pinch of red pepper flakes would be delicious additions.

This Smoked Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe is a flavorful and satisfying way to enjoy a classic comfort food with a smoky and spicy twist. With its easy preparation, versatile ingredients, and unique flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

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