Description

This creamy and spicy Buffalo Chicken Pasta combines tender shredded chicken, classic buffalo sauce, and a blend of cheeses for a flavorful and comforting weeknight meal. With a smooth, cheesy sauce and a hint of heat, this dish is perfect for buffalo chicken fans looking for a hearty pasta dinner ready in just 25 minutes.

Ingredients

Pasta and Protein

8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or shells)
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

Sauce and Seasonings

1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup buffalo sauce
1/2 cup ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Cheeses

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)

Garnish

1/4 cup chopped green onions

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Cook the pasta: Prepare the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain it well and set aside to be added later in the dish.
Sauté garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Make the sauce: Stir in buffalo sauce, ranch or blue cheese dressing, softened cream cheese, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper into the skillet. Cook the mixture while stirring frequently until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Add chicken: Incorporate the shredded cooked chicken into the skillet and toss it to coat evenly with the buffalo cheese sauce.
Combine pasta and cheese: Add the cooked pasta, shredded cheddar, and mozzarella cheese to the skillet. Mix well until the cheeses melt completely and the pasta is evenly coated in the sauce.
Garnish and finish: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle chopped green onions and crumbled blue cheese over the top if using, adding a fresh and tangy finish.
Serve warm: Plate the buffalo chicken pasta while hot and enjoy this creamy, flavorful dish immediately for the best taste.

Notes

For a spicier dish, add extra buffalo sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Substitute ranch dressing with blue cheese dressing for a richer flavor.
Use rotisserie chicken for an easy shortcut.
To make it low carb, substitute pasta with spiralized zucchini or other vegetables.
Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in a skillet or microwave.