Creamy One-Pot Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Picture this: You’re craving a cozy, flavorful dinner but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Enter Buffalo Chicken Pasta, a creamy, spicy, and cheesy dish that brings together the bold flavors of buffalo sauce with the comfort of pasta—all in just one pot.

I first made this dish on a cold weeknight when I needed something quick yet satisfying. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and a little heat from the buffalo sauce was an instant hit. What makes this recipe perfect for beginners? Minimal prep, simple cooking steps, and easy clean-up. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for an even faster meal.

Why This Recipe is Special

1. One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes, less hassle, and easy clean-up.
2. Beginner-Friendly: Straightforward steps with little room for error.
3. Rich and Creamy: A balance of spice, tang, and cheesy goodness.
4. Customizable: Adjust the spice level and swap ingredients based on what you have.

Ingredients and Their Roles

• Chicken (Fresh, Rotisserie, or Leftover) – Provides protein and absorbs the buffalo sauce flavor beautifully.
• Buffalo Sauce – The star of the dish, bringing the signature tangy heat. Choose mild or spicy based on your preference.
• Pasta (Penne, Rotini, or Shells) – Holds the sauce well and provides a hearty base.
• Chicken Broth – Enhances depth of flavor and helps cook the pasta right in the sauce.
• Cream Cheese – Adds a creamy texture, balancing the spice with richness.
• Cheddar Cheese – Offers sharpness and melts beautifully for a gooey consistency.
• Mozzarella Cheese – Provides a mild, stretchy, cheesy texture.
• Diced Tomatoes (Canned, Undrained) – Contributes slight acidity to balance the richness.
• Celery and Onion – Classic buffalo chicken components for crunch and sweetness.
• Garlic – Adds depth and aroma.
• Blue Cheese or Ranch Dressing – Coats the shredded chicken for extra creaminess.
• Red Pepper Flakes (Optional) – For an extra kick.

Ingredient Substitutions

• Swap blue cheese dressing for ranch if you prefer a milder taste.
• Use gluten-free pasta to make it gluten-friendly.
• Try Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese for a lighter version.
• Prefer less spice? Reduce the buffalo sauce and add extra broth or cream.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
If using raw chicken, place it in a pot of water and bring it to a gentle boil. Let it cook for about 15 minutes until fully cooked. Remove, shred with two forks, and toss with blue cheese or ranch dressing. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and celery, cooking for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Pour in chicken broth and undrained diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then stir in the pasta. Make sure the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid. Cover and let it cook until al dente (check the package for timing). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Make it Creamy
Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Stir in buffalo sauce, cubed cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and mozzarella. Gently mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce turns creamy.

Step 5: Add the Chicken and Final Touches
Mix the shredded chicken into the pasta, allowing it to absorb the flavors. If you like extra heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes. Let the dish sit for a couple of minutes—it will thicken as it cools.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Garnish with extra cheese or chopped green onions for a pop of freshness. Serve hot and enjoy!

Beginner Tips and Notes

• Avoid Overcooking the Pasta – Since it cooks in the sauce, keep an eye on it to prevent mushiness.
• Use Room-Temperature Cream Cheese – This ensures smooth melting without lumps.
• Shred Your Own Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.
• Make it Milder – Reduce buffalo sauce and add a splash of milk or extra broth for a less spicy version.
• Plan for Leftovers – The sauce thickens in the fridge, so add a splash of broth or milk when reheating.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Pairing: Serve with a side of celery sticks and ranch or blue cheese dressing, just like traditional buffalo wings.
• Garlic Bread: A crispy, buttery side is perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce.
• Side Salad: A fresh green salad with ranch or blue cheese dressing balances the richness.
• Vegetable Add-Ins: Stir in spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrients.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Portion out and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat Gently: For best results, warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to revive the creaminess.

Ready to Try This Easy Sheet Pan Dinner?

Buffalo Chicken Pasta is the ultimate quick and healthy meal that’s packed with flavor and perfect for busy nights. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or serving a crowd, this one-pot recipe is a guaranteed hit.

Tried it? Let me know how it turned out in the comments below! Did you add your own twist? I’d love to hear about it!

FAQ About Buffalo Chicken Pasta

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