There's nothing quite like the bold, zesty flavors of Buffalo Chicken Pasta to spice up your weeknight dinner routine. The creamy sauce, tender pasta, and tangy buffalo kick make this dish a hit for family dinners, game-day feasts, or casual gatherings with friends.

I discovered this recipe during a quest to combine two of my favorite comfort foods—buffalo chicken wings and pasta. What started as a playful experiment has since become one of our most requested meals, satisfying cravings for both spice and comfort. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special!
Why You'll Love This Buffalo Chicken Pasta
Get ready to fall head over heels for this mouthwatering Buffalo Chicken Pasta. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a flavor-packed experience that’s as comforting as it is exciting.
First off, this dish is a breeze to make, perfect for busy weeknights. With just one pot and a few pantry staples, you can whip up a meal that tastes like it came straight from a restaurant.
The creamy, tangy buffalo sauce is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Whether you're a spice lover or prefer a milder kick, the recipe is easy to adjust to your taste.
It’s also incredibly versatile. You can use leftover chicken, adjust the spice level, or even swap in gluten-free pasta to suit your needs.
And let’s not forget how budget-friendly this recipe is. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, it’s a wallet-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Ready to see how simple and delicious this dish can be? Keep reading for all the details.
Ingredients Notes

The magic of Buffalo Chicken Pasta lies in its carefully selected ingredients. Each one contributes to the rich, bold flavor profile and creamy texture that makes this dish irresistible.
The pasta is the backbone of the recipe. Penne, rotini, or shells work beautifully because they catch the sauce in every groove, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
For the chicken, I recommend using cooked, shredded chicken. Rotisserie chicken is a lifesaver here—it's quick, convenient, and perfectly tender. Alternatively, you can sauté boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for a fresher option.
The buffalo sauce is the star of the show. Use your favorite brand, but be sure it’s one with a good balance of heat and tang. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with a smaller amount and add more to taste.
Cream cheese is the secret to the velvety, rich sauce. It melts into the buffalo sauce, creating a luscious texture that coats the pasta perfectly.
To round out the flavors, ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing adds creaminess and cools down the heat, making it a great complement to the bold buffalo sauce.
You’ll also need shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella for extra gooey goodness and a touch of chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
How To Make This Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Creating this flavorful Buffalo Chicken Pasta is a straightforward process that comes together in no time. Here’s how you can make it step by step:
Start by boiling your pasta in a large pot of salted water. Cook it just shy of al dente, as it will finish cooking in the sauce later. Drain and set aside, reserving about a cup of the pasta water.
While the pasta cooks, prepare your chicken if it isn’t already cooked. Shred the meat into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat and whisk in the buffalo sauce and cream cheese. Stir until the cream cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Next, add the shredded chicken to the sauce, stirring to coat it evenly. If the sauce feels too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, making sure every piece is coated in that creamy, spicy goodness. Let it simmer on low heat for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors together.
Finally, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top and cover the pot until it melts. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
This entire process takes just 30 minutes, making it the perfect meal for those hectic evenings.
Storage Options
Buffalo Chicken Pasta stores beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers.
To store, transfer the pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken slightly as it cools, but it reheats wonderfully.
For freezing, allow the pasta to cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheat the pasta gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to bring back the creamy consistency.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about this recipe is how easily you can customize it to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
- Swap the chicken for cooked shrimp or ground turkey for a fun twist on the classic.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make the dish celiac-friendly without sacrificing flavor.
- If you’re not a fan of ranch or blue cheese, swap it for sour cream or Greek yogurt to maintain the creaminess.
- Add extra veggies like diced bell peppers, spinach, or even roasted cauliflower for a nutrient boost.
- Dial up the heat with extra buffalo sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper, or tone it down with a touch more cream cheese.
Buffalo Chicken Pasta is the kind of recipe that encourages creativity, so don’t hesitate to experiment. No matter how you make it, you’re in for a treat!
PrintBuffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe
This Buffalo Chicken Pasta recipe combines tender chicken, spicy buffalo sauce, creamy cheese, and pasta for a comforting, flavorful dish perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or your choice)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: chopped green onions, crumbled blue cheese, parsley
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add cooked chicken to the skillet and stir in the buffalo sauce. Heat until warmed through.
- Lower the heat and mix in cream cheese until melted. Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until smooth.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the buffalo chicken sauce. Mix until well coated.
- Season with salt and pepper, then garnish with optional toppings. Serve warm.
Notes
- Adjust the spice level by using mild or extra spicy buffalo sauce.
- Add vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 1050mg
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