Buffalo Chicken Pasta – One Pot! Recipe

If you’re craving something spicy, creamy, and utterly irresistible, you have to try Buffalo Chicken Pasta – One Pot! This fan-favorite recipe combines everything we love about Buffalo wings and cheesy comfort food, all made in a single pot for maximum flavor and minimal cleanup. Imagine tender chicken, saucy pasta, tangy ranch, and a decadent mix of cheeses melting together with just enough heat to keep things exciting. It’s the feel-good, crowd-pleasing dish you’ll want to whip up on every busy weeknight or for a game-day gathering.

Buffalo Chicken Pasta – One Pot! Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Grab your favorite pot and these few pantry staples, and you’re just minutes away from pure comfort. Each ingredient in Buffalo Chicken Pasta – One Pot! adds something unique—juicy protein, bold heat, creamy richness, or a refreshing touch—making every bite next-level delicious.

  • Butter: Adds richness and helps brown the chicken for that golden, savory flavor foundation.
  • Boneless, skinless chicken breast: The star of the dish; cut into bite-sized pieces so every forkful is packed with tender chicken.
  • Salt and black pepper: Brings out all the savory flavors and balances the spicy Buffalo sauce.
  • Garlic: Infuses the dish with aromatic depth, turning simple ingredients into something special.
  • Chicken broth: Cooks the pasta and chicken together, infusing them both with extra flavor.
  • Uncooked penne or rotini pasta: Holds the sauce perfectly and cooks right in the pot for ultimate convenience.
  • Buffalo wing sauce: Delivers that signature tangy heat iconic to Buffalo Chicken Pasta – One Pot!
  • Cream cheese: Melts into the sauce for irresistible creaminess that soothes the heat.
  • Ranch or blue cheese dressing: Adds a cool, creamy twist that’s classic with Buffalo flavors.
  • Shredded cheddar cheese: Brings melty, cheesy goodness that makes each bite ooey-gooey and indulgent.
  • Green onions: For fresh, crisp color and a zippy finish right before serving.
  • Crumbled blue cheese (optional): Adds tang and an extra Buffalo flair for the true cheese fans.

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Pasta – One Pot!

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

Start by heating the butter in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add your chicken pieces, season them with the salt and black pepper, and sauté for about 4 to 5 minutes until they’re lightly browned and mostly cooked through. This is where you build that first layer of savory, golden flavor, and it smells incredible right from the start!

Step 2: Add Garlic

Sprinkle the minced garlic over the sautéed chicken and cook for one more minute. Stir it around so the garlic gets fragrant but doesn’t burn—this is your secret flavor booster for Buffalo Chicken Pasta – One Pot!

Step 3: Simmer with Pasta and Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth, uncooked pasta, and all that zingy Buffalo wing sauce. Give it a good stir to make sure everything is well mixed, then bring it to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, lower the heat, pop a lid on, and let it simmer for 12 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally so nothing sticks, and cook until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

Remove the lid and stir in the cubed cream cheese and your choice of ranch or blue cheese dressing. Keep stirring until the cream cheese is silky and completely blended, giving the whole pot that velvety texture Buffalo Chicken Pasta – One Pot! is famous for.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Now comes the cheddar cheese! Sprinkle it into the pot and stir until it’s all gooey and fully incorporated. This step takes your pasta from tasty to absolutely sublime.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Take your Buffalo Chicken Pasta – One Pot! off the heat and let it sit for a few minutes, so it thickens up and the flavors can mingle. Right before serving, top the dish with fresh green onions and, if you like, a sprinkle of crumbled blue cheese for that punchy Buffalo spirit.

How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Pasta – One Pot!

Buffalo Chicken Pasta – One Pot! Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Don’t underestimate the power of a finishing touch! Sprinkle sliced green onions generously over the top for freshness, and add crumbled blue cheese if you’re craving extra tang. If you like an herby pop, a little fresh parsley can brighten up the look and flavor of your Buffalo Chicken Pasta – One Pot!

Side Dishes

While this pasta is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, it absolutely loves some company. Serve it with crisp celery and carrot sticks to cool down the heat, or a simple green salad with ranch dressing. Warm, crusty bread is always welcome for mopping up the creamy, cheesy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Buffalo Chicken Pasta – One Pot! is ideal for casual gatherings in a big family-style pot, but you can also get fancy: Serve individual portions in mini cast-iron skillets, or even inside hollowed-out bread bowls for playful game-night flair. For a party spread, top with extra cheese and broil until bubbly for a dramatic, crowd-pleasing finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Buffalo Chicken Pasta – One Pot! holds up really well in the fridge. Transfer any extras to an airtight container and store for up to 4 days. The creamy sauce stays tasty and the pasta keeps a surprisingly nice texture for a one-pot dinner.

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze Buffalo Chicken Pasta – One Pot! for longer storage. Simply cool completely and spoon into freezer-safe containers. It will keep for up to three months—perfect for grabbing on those nights when you need something comforting in a flash.

Reheating

To reheat, pop a serving in the microwave for a minute or two until hot, stirring occasionally. If it thickens in the fridge, add a splash of milk or chicken broth and give it a good stir. On the stovetop, reheat gently over medium-low, adding a little extra liquid as needed to revive all that creamy, saucy goodness.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking fresh chicken?

Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut. Add it just before the cream cheese and dressing step, since it’s already cooked. It soaks up all the Buffalo flavor and saves you time, making Buffalo Chicken Pasta – One Pot! even quicker.

What’s the best Buffalo sauce to use?

Frank’s RedHot is a classic for that familiar Buffalo flavor, but honestly, any favorite Buffalo wing sauce will work. Heat levels can vary, so start with less and add more as you go if you’re unsure—especially if kids are joining dinner!

Can I add vegetables to Buffalo Chicken Pasta – One Pot!?

Definitely! Stir in chopped bell peppers, spinach, or even some peas during the last five minutes of simmering. It’s a sneaky way to add color, nutrition, and texture while keeping that signature flavor.

Is this recipe spicy, and how can I make it milder?

Buffalo Chicken Pasta – One Pot! has a pleasant, zesty kick, but you’re in full control of the heat. Use a mild Buffalo sauce or cut the amount in half for a gentler version. For more spice lovers, set out extra sauce at the table!

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, swap in your go-to gluten-free pasta for the standard penne or rotini. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, since some GF pastas cook faster or absorb liquid differently. The rest of the recipe works beautifully gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a meal that’s bold, creamy, comforting, and guaranteed to satisfy every Buffalo craving, Buffalo Chicken Pasta – One Pot! is it. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again, whether you’re feeding a family or just yourself. So grab your pot and dive on in—you’re in for a new favorite!

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Buffalo Chicken Pasta – One Pot! Recipe

Buffalo Chicken Pasta – One Pot! Recipe


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4.7 from 28 reviews

  • Author: admin
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Description

This Buffalo Chicken Pasta recipe combines the zesty flavors of buffalo sauce with creamy cheese, tender chicken, and pasta for a one-pot meal that’s easy and delicious.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Buffalo Chicken Pasta:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups uncooked penne or rotini pasta
  • 1/2 cup Buffalo wing sauce
  • 4 oz cream cheese (cubed)
  • 1/2 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 green onions (sliced)
  • crumbled blue cheese (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Buffalo Chicken Pasta: Heat butter in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until browned. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Pour in the chicken broth, pasta, and Buffalo sauce. Bring to a boil, then simmer, covered, for 12–15 minutes until pasta is tender.
  3. Finish the Dish: Stir in cream cheese and dressing until melted. Add cheddar cheese, stir until combined. Remove from heat, let sit to thicken. Top with green onions and blue cheese if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Adjust Buffalo sauce to taste. For extra protein, add bacon or grilled chicken. Dish reheats well and can be made ahead for meal prep.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
  • Calories: 560
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 970mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 34g
  • Cholesterol: 115mg

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