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Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe

Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe

Rebecca
A creamy, spicy, and indulgent buffalo chicken pasta that's perfect for busy evenings. Tender chicken, creamy cheeses, and tangy buffalo sauce come together in a comforting, hearty dish.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 650 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz Pasta penne or other short type
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil
  • 2 tbsp Unsalted butter
  • 1 lb Chicken breast fillets cut into small cubes
  • 1 Shallot finely diced
  • 3 Cloves Garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp Tomato paste
  • 1 cup Chicken stock
  • 8 oz Light cream cheese softened
  • 1/3 cup Buffalo wing sauce
  • 1/4 cup Ranch dressing
  • 1 cup Cheddar cheese grated
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese grated
  • Salt and Pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.

Notes

  • Save That Pasta Water: It helps create a silky sauce consistency.
  • Use Softened Cream Cheese: For a smooth sauce without lumps.
  • Adjust Spice Level: Modify the buffalo and ranch amounts to your preference.
Keyword Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe