The first time I made this Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe, it was love at first bite. The tangy buffalo sauce paired with creamy cheeses made a rich, indulgent dish that disappeared faster than I could believe.

It’s now my go-to recipe for busy evenings or when I’m craving something comforting and spicy. The tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta bring all the flavors together for a dish that’s hearty, satisfying, and unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a handy list of everything you’ll need, with measurements and tips to get it just right. Each ingredient serves a purpose in creating this flavorful pasta.

12 oz Pasta (penne or other short type): A sturdy, short pasta works best to hold the creamy sauce.
2 tbsp Olive oil: Adds flavor and helps to brown the chicken.
2 tbsp Unsalted butter: Enhances the richness of the sauce.
1 lb Chicken breast fillets (cut into small cubes): For tender bites of protein in every forkful.
1 Shallot (finely diced): Adds a mild, sweet onion flavor.
3 Cloves Garlic (minced): For a boost of aroma and taste.
2 tbsp Tomato paste: Builds the base of the sauce with sweetness and depth.
1 cup Chicken stock: Helps to thin the sauce while adding savory flavor.
8 oz Light cream cheese (softened): Creates that luscious, creamy texture.
1/3 cup Buffalo wing sauce: Brings heat and tanginess to the dish.
1/4 cup Ranch dressing: Balances the heat with a creamy, herby touch.
1 cup Cheddar cheese (grated): For bold, cheesy flavor.
1 cup Monterey Jack cheese (grated): Adds a mild creaminess that melts perfectly.
Salt and Pepper: To season as you go and bring out all the flavors.

Note: This recipe serves 4 generously. Adjust the quantities if cooking for more or fewer people.

Variations to Try

It’s easy to tailor this dish to your taste or dietary requirements. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

Protein Swap: Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for convenience. For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with sautéed mushrooms.
Cheese Choices: Try mozzarella or Gouda for a fun twist on the flavor.
Sauce Substitution: Replace ranch dressing with blue cheese dressing for an extra-bold kick.

Cooking Time

You can have this delicious pasta ready in no time, making it perfect for busy evenings.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Equipment You’ll Need

Make sure you have these tools ready to whip up this pasta effortlessly.

Large Pot: To perfectly cook the pasta.
Large Pan/Dutch Oven: For creating the creamy sauce.
Measuring Cups: For accurate measurements of liquids and cheeses.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: To stir the ingredients and mix the pasta evenly into the sauce.

How to Make Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta?

This recipe is simple to follow and will have you serving up a delicious meal in just a few steps.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta until it’s just shy of al dente (about 1 minute less than package instructions). Don’t forget to reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil and butter in a large pan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6–7 minutes, until thoroughly browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Add the chopped shallot and minced garlic to the same pan. Cook them for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently, until they release their fragrant aroma.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Stir in the tomato paste and chicken stock, making sure they’re fully combined. Lower the heat and add the softened cream cheese, whisking until you have a smooth, creamy base.

Step 5: Combine the Bold Flavors

Pour in the buffalo sauce and ranch dressing, stirring well until everything is blended. Allow the sauce to lightly bubble, letting the flavors meld together.

Step 6: Toss the Pasta with the Sauce

Return the cooked pasta to the pan, tossing it gently to coat every piece in the sauce. Add a bit of reserved pasta water for a smoother consistency if needed.

Step 7: Finish with Cheese

Mix in the grated cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the pasta is coated in a creamy, cheesy buffalo sauce. Serve immediately.

Additional Tips for Making It Better

From my experience, here’s how you can make this recipe truly shine.

Save That Pasta Water: The secret to a silky-smooth sauce consistency.
Use Softened Cream Cheese: Ensure it’s soft before adding it to the pan to avoid any lumps in your sauce.
Taste as You Go: Adjust the levels of buffalo and ranch to match your spice and tang preferences.

How to Serve Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta?

Serve this dish hot for the best texture and flavor. Pair it with buttery garlic bread or a crisp green salad to balance the richness. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or extra cheese for a vibrant, professional-looking garnish. Feeling daring? Top it with red pepper flakes for more spice and visual appeal.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional content for each serving.

Calories: 650
Protein: 51g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fat: 33g

Make Ahead and Storage

Here’s how you can prep for later or save leftovers.

Preparing in Advance: Cook the chicken and make the sauce ahead of time. Store them separately and combine with freshly made pasta when serving.
Refrigerating Leftovers: Store in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk to keep the sauce creamy.
Freezing: Freeze the sauce (without the pasta) for future use. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stove.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe?

This buffalo chicken pasta is a total winner, and here’s why.

Quick and Effortless: It’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it a lifesaver on busy nights.
Bursting with Flavor: The creamy, tangy, and spicy combo is a flavor explosion.
Versatile: Easily tweak it to match your preferences or ingredients on hand.
Crowd Favorite: Perfect for family dinners or hosting friends, everyone loves it!
Great Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.

This creamy buffalo chicken pasta is the perfect mix of flavor, comfort, and convenience. Try it out tonight and savor every bite!