Buffalo Chicken Pasta – One Pot

There’s a certain magic to gathering around the table on a chilly evening, when the air outside is crisp and you’re craving something warm, hearty, and just a little bit indulgent. For me, that craving is always satisfied by a steaming bowl of Buffalo Chicken Pasta, made all in one pot. From the first bite, it reminds me of cozy game nights with friends, where a big dish of buffalo chicken dip sat at the center of the table, surrounded by laughter, conversation, and the occasional friendly competition.

This dish brings those beloved flavors to the dinner table in a way that’s more filling and comforting. Creamy, cheesy, and spiced just right with buffalo sauce, it has all the punch of your favorite party snack—but wrapped in tender pasta and melted cheese. It’s not just a weeknight dinner; it’s a celebration of bold flavors, shared memories, and the joy of one-pot simplicity.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family after a long day, prepping meals for a busy week, or hosting casual friends for a fun evening, Buffalo Chicken Pasta is the kind of dish that brings people together. The warmth of the spices, the richness of the sauce, and the cozy feeling of comfort food—it’s a dish that truly sticks with you, not just on your plate but in your heart.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Ease: Everything cooks in one pot—less cleanup, more flavor.
• Quick Weeknight Winner: Ready in about 30 minutes for those busy nights.
• Customizable Heat: Turn up or tone down the spice depending on your mood.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults love the creamy, cheesy, bold taste.
• Perfect Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day—hello, meal prep!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup buffalo sauce
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 12 oz penne or rotini pasta (uncooked)
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup blue cheese crumbles (optional)
• 2 green onions, chopped (optional garnish)

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Chicken

In a large pot or deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add them to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-6 minutes until browned and cooked through. As the chicken sizzles, the aroma fills the kitchen with the promise of something delicious ahead.

2. Add Garlic for Fragrance

Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about 1 minute. The garlic will become fragrant, adding a mouthwatering depth of flavor that ties the dish together.

3. Pour in the Saucy Goodness

Add the chicken broth, buffalo sauce, and heavy cream to the pot, stirring everything together. The rich orange color hints at the spice and creaminess that’s to come.

4. Add Pasta and Simmer

Pour in the uncooked pasta, making sure it’s submerged in the liquid. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. As it simmers, the pasta absorbs all that spicy, creamy flavor.

5. Stir in the Cheese

When the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and velvety. This moment is my favorite—the cheese blends with the sauce, turning everything lusciously creamy.

6. Garnish and Serve

If you like, sprinkle blue cheese crumbles and chopped green onions on top for extra flavor and a pop of color. Serve hot, and get ready for a meal that’s equal parts comforting and bold.

Helpful Tips

• Want it milder? Use less buffalo sauce or a mild variety to tone down the heat.
• Prefer it spicier? Add extra buffalo sauce or a dash of cayenne pepper.
• No blue cheese? Skip it or swap for feta if you’re not a fan of blue cheese.
• Use leftover chicken: This recipe is perfect for using up leftover cooked chicken—just add it in Step 4 and skip browning.

Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: One Pot
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: High-Protein

Notes

• For extra creaminess, stir in a spoonful of cream cheese at the end.
• Serve with a simple side salad or garlic bread to complete the meal.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 650
• Protein: 45g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Cholesterol: 120mg
• Sodium: 1200mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Buffalo Chicken Pasta ahead of time?
Yes! It reheats beautifully. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheat with a splash of broth or milk.

What’s the best pasta for this recipe?
Penne and rotini work great because they hold the sauce well, but shells or fusilli also work.

Do I have to use blue cheese?
Not at all! You can leave it out or substitute feta or extra cheddar if you prefer.

Can I use precooked chicken?
Definitely. Just skip the browning step and add the cooked chicken when you add the liquids.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or milk if the sauce has thickened too much.

Related Recipes

If you loved this Buffalo Chicken Pasta, you’ll also enjoy:

• Marry Me Chicken Pasta: A Creamy Dish That Wins Hearts
• Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini in Parmesan Sauce
• Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta
• Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo

Conclusion

There’s nothing quite like a big pot of Buffalo Chicken Pasta simmering away on the stove—filling the kitchen with warm, spicy aromas and promising a meal that’s as comforting as it is flavorful. This dish is a perfect blend of indulgence and ease, making it ideal for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or casual gatherings with friends. I hope it becomes one of your go-to recipes, just like it has in my kitchen.