Buffalo Chicken Pasta Creamy Spicy
A creamy and spicy pasta dish that combines the flavors of buffalo sauce with tender chicken, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingrédients
Pasta
- 12 ounces penne or rotini pasta Choose your favorite shape to hold the creamy sauce well.
Protein
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced Grilled or rotisserie chicken works beautifully.
Sauce Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter Adds richness to the sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Provides aromatic flavor.
- 1/2 cup Buffalo wing sauce The star ingredient that gives this dish its signature zing.
- 7 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed Creates a creamy texture in the sauce.
- 1/2 cup sour cream Adds tanginess and additional creaminess.
- 1/2 cup milk Helps adjust the sauce’s consistency.
Cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Melts beautifully for that cheese pull!
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese Adds sharpness and depth of flavor.
Seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt Enhances all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper Provides a subtle warmth.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional) Adds a smoky hint that complements the spice.
Garnishes
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional) Brightens the dish visually and flavor-wise.
- 2 green onions thinly sliced For garnish and a fresh crunch.
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather all your ingredients to make the cooking process smooth.
Cooking the Pasta
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sautéing the Garlic
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
Making the Sauce
- Pour in the Buffalo wing sauce, cream cheese, sour cream, and milk into the skillet. Whisk continuously until smooth and thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
Adding the Cheeses
- Stir in shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses until melted and the sauce is creamy.
Incorporating the Chicken
- Fold in the chicken, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Heat for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Combining with Pasta
- Transfer the drained pasta into the sauce and toss well to coat.
Finishing Touches
- Top with sliced green onions and parsley if desired.
Serving
- Serve immediately while warm and enjoy the creamy flavors.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For meal prep, ensure the dish cools down before sealing to prevent sogginess. Can be frozen for up to 2 months.