As a lover of spicy and creamy dishes, I’m excited to share with you my favorite Buffalo Chicken Pasta recipe. This dish combines the best of buffalo chicken with the comfort of pasta, making it perfect for weeknights or gatherings with friends.
Why You’ll Love It
- Spicy and Creamy: This recipe balances the spicy kick of buffalo sauce with the richness of cream cheese and melted cheese.
- Quick and Easy: It’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
- Customizable: You can adjust the spice level and add your favorite toppings.
Quick Facts
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Serving Size: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (like Frank’s Red Hot)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add the cream cheese and stir until melted. Add the buffalo sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the sauce. Stir in the chicken broth to achieve the desired consistency.
- Add Cheese and Pasta: Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until well coated.
- Serve: Transfer the pasta to a serving dish. Top with chopped green onions if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Add Crunch: Top with crushed red pepper flakes or croutons for extra texture.
- Veggie Delight: Add sautéed bell peppers or onions for added flavor and nutrients.
- Spice It Up: Increase the buffalo sauce for an extra spicy kick.
Tips for Customization
- Use Leftovers: Substitute cooked chicken with leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta for dietary restrictions.
- Veggie Option: Omit the chicken and add roasted vegetables for a vegetarian version.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
FAQs
Q: Can I make this recipe in one pot?
A: Yes, you can cook the pasta in the same skillet with the chicken and sauce, but ensure you use enough liquid to cover the pasta.
Q: How spicy is this dish?
A: The spiciness depends on the buffalo sauce used. You can adjust the amount to suit your taste.
Q: Can I freeze this dish?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked pasta for up to 3 days. Reheat with additional chicken broth if needed. This Buffalo Chicken Pasta is a perfect blend of flavors that will satisfy your cravings for something spicy and comforting. Enjoy experimenting with different toppings and spice levels to make it your own!
