This One Pot Buffalo Chicken Pasta is a perfect dish for any occasion, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a simple family meal, this creamy pasta recipe stands out with its zesty buffalo sauce and cheesy goodness. With minimal cleanup thanks to its one-pot method, you’ll enjoy every bite without the hassle of extensive cooking.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
One-Pot Wonder: Cook everything in one skillet for less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
Versatile Ingredients: Use fresh, rotisserie, or leftover chicken to suit your needs and preferences.
Flavor Packed: The combination of buffalo sauce, cream cheese, and cheddar provides a rich and satisfying taste.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, this dish is sure to impress friends and family alike.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Buffalo Chicken Pasta experience seamless, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment on hand will streamline the cooking process.

Limited Time Deal

Grab This Chef Knife Now - Almost Gone!

Stays Razor-Sharp: Ice-hardened blade keeps its edge longer than ordinary knives
Superior Grip Control: Unique finger hole design gives you perfect balance and safety
Built to Last a Lifetime: Premium stainless steel blade with elegant beech wood handle

Customer Reviews ★★★★★

Finally, a knife that stays sharp and feels comfortable in my hand

Professional quality without the premium price tag

Makes meal prep faster and more enjoyable

Don't Miss Out - Order Now

Only a few items left in stock - order soon

Essential Tools and Equipment

Skillet
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

Skillet: A large skillet allows you to cook all ingredients in one pot, ensuring quick preparation and easy cleanup.
Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife helps you chop ingredients efficiently, saving you time during prep.

Ingredients

This One Pot Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe is easy to make in a skillet with a delicious cream sauce and your choice of pasta. Use fresh, rotisserie, or leftover chicken!

Protein & Dairy

1 large boneless skinless chicken breast (equal to 1 lb.)
½ cup blue cheese dressing (can sub ranch)
2 Tablespoons butter (divided)
8 oz. cream cheese (softened and cubed)
1.5 cups cheddar (shredded)
1 cup mozzarella (shredded)

Vegetables & Seasoning

½ cup yellow onion (diced)
1 stick celery (diced)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
14.5 oz. diced tomatoes (undrained, (1 can))

Broth & Pasta

4 cups chicken broth
1 lb. penne

Sauce & Extras

½ cup buffalo sauce
1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons cold butter (optional)

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Set the cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese out ahead of time. We want them near room temperature when we add them to the pasta.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter.
Add the diced onion and celery; sauté until they are softened.
Stir in the minced garlic for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken breast to the skillet; cook until browned on both sides.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil.
Add the penne pasta; cook according to package instructions until al dente.

Step 4: Create the Cream Sauce

Once pasta is cooked, reduce heat to low.
Stir in the buffalo sauce, cream cheese, blue cheese dressing, shredded cheddar, and mozzarella until melted and creamy.

Step 5: Serve

If desired, sprinkle with red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Serve warm with additional cheese on top if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Buffalo Chicken Pasta!

How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Buffalo Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

Casual Dinner

Serve the pasta in large bowls with extra buffalo sauce drizzled on top for added flavor.
Pair it with garlic bread for a comforting and filling dinner.

Game Day Treat

Present the Buffalo Chicken Pasta in a large serving dish during the big game.
Offer celery sticks and carrots on the side for a crunchy contrast.

Family Gatherings

Make it a centerpiece by garnishing with fresh parsley or green onions.
Serve alongside a light salad to balance the richness of the pasta.

Meal Prep Option

Store individual portions in airtight containers for easy lunches throughout the week.
Reheat quickly in the microwave for a satisfying meal on-the-go.

How to Perfect Buffalo Chicken Pasta

To make your Buffalo Chicken Pasta even more delicious, consider these helpful tips.

Use high-quality chicken: Fresh or rotisserie chicken enhances flavor and texture, making your dish taste better.
Adjust spice levels: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of buffalo sauce or add more cream cheese for creaminess.
Incorporate veggies: Adding spinach or bell peppers can increase nutrition and add color to your dish.
Experiment with cheese: Try different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for unique flavors and extra creaminess.
Top with fresh herbs: Chopped cilantro or chives can brighten up your dish and add freshness.
Serve immediately: For best results, enjoy the pasta right after cooking to maintain its creamy consistency.

Best Side Dishes for Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Buffalo Chicken Pasta pairs well with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options:

Garden Salad: A mix of greens with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft inside, this classic side is perfect for scooping up extra sauce.
Coleslaw: The crunch of coleslaw adds texture and acidity, enhancing your meal’s overall profile.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until tender provide a healthy and colorful addition to the table.
Potato Wedges: Seasoned wedges offer a satisfying crunch that pairs nicely with creamy pasta dishes.
Stuffed Peppers: Baked stuffed peppers filled with rice or quinoa can serve as a hearty side that complements your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Buffalo Chicken Pasta, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch for:

Skipping room temperature ingredients: Using cold cheese can lead to clumps in your sauce. Set cream cheese and shredded cheese out ahead of time.
Overcooking the pasta: If you cook the pasta too long, it can become mushy. Follow the package instructions for al dente texture.
Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Store-bought buffalo sauce varies in heat. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning based on your preference.
Not using enough liquid: Pasta absorbs liquid while cooking, so ensure there’s enough broth to keep it creamy. Add more broth if needed.
Failing to mix thoroughly: Not mixing well can result in uneven flavor distribution. Stir consistently to combine all ingredients properly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store Buffalo Chicken Pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Allow the pasta to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Consider portioning into smaller containers for easy reheating.

Reheating Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake in a covered dish for about 20 minutes, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until heated through.
Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a skillet, adding a bit of chicken broth or water to keep it creamy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Buffalo Chicken Pasta:

What is Buffalo Chicken Pasta?

Buffalo Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish combining pasta with shredded chicken and spicy buffalo sauce, creating a delicious meal.

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes! Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor. Just shred it and add it during cooking.

How can I make Buffalo Chicken Pasta spicier?

To add more heat, increase the amount of buffalo sauce or sprinkle extra red pepper flakes on top before serving.

Is there a vegetarian version of Buffalo Chicken Pasta?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with sautéed vegetables or plant-based protein alternatives for a vegetarian twist.

Final Thoughts

This One Pot Buffalo Chicken Pasta recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings. It’s creamy, comforting, and incredibly versatile—you can customize it with your favorite veggies or adjust the spice level. Give this dish a try; you’ll love how easy it is to bring delicious flavors together!

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

One Pot Buffalo Chicken Pasta

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Author: Cara
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: Serves 6

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the creamy, zesty goodness of this One Pot Buffalo Chicken Pasta. Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, this dish combines tender chicken with a spicy buffalo sauce, rich cream cheese, and gooey cheddar for a hearty meal everyone will love. The one-pot method means minimal cleanup while maximizing flavor, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Enjoy it as a comforting family dinner or as a showstopper at your next party!

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast
½ cup blue cheese dressing
8 oz cream cheese
1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
4 cups chicken broth
1 lb penne pasta
½ cup buffalo sauce
Diced onions
Diced celery
Minced garlic
Diced tomatoes

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare the cheeses by bringing them to room temperature.
In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté diced onion and celery until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Add the chicken breast and cook until browned. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
Stir in penne pasta and cook until al dente.
Reduce heat to low and mix in buffalo sauce, cream cheese, blue cheese dressing, cheddar, and mozzarella until creamy.
Serve warm, garnished with red pepper flakes if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: American