Spice up your dinner with a delicious Buffalo Chicken Pasta! This creamy and tangy pasta dish combines the classic flavors of buffalo chicken with the comfort of pasta, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. Follow this recipe to create a mouthwatering Buffalo Chicken Pasta that will leave everyone asking for more.
Ingredients List
Main Ingredients
- Cooking oil
- Butter
- Diced chicken (approximately 2 cups)
- Salt
- Paprika
- Black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Cream cheese (8 ounces)
- Buffalo sauce (1/2 cup)
- Hot sauce (optional, to taste)
- Chicken broth (2 cups)
- Pasta (8 ounces)
- Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon)
- Shredded Monterey Jack cheese (1 cup)
- 2 green onions, sliced (optional for garnish)
Required Kitchen Tools
When preparing Buffalo Chicken Pasta, having the right kitchen tools can make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Here are the essential tools you will need:
- Large Pot: For cooking the pasta.
- Skillet: For cooking the chicken and sauce.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To accurately measure the ingredients.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring the sauce and pasta.
- Whisk: To mix the sauce ingredients smoothly.
- Knife and Cutting Board: For dicing the chicken and slicing the green onions.
Having these tools on hand will set you up for a successful Buffalo Chicken Pasta-making experience.
Cooking the Chicken
Preparing the Chicken
- Season the Chicken:
In a bowl, season the diced chicken with salt, paprika, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Toss the chicken to ensure it’s evenly coated with the spices. - Heat the Skillet:
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of cooking oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken. - Cook the Chicken:
Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Preparing the Sauce
The sauce is the heart of this Buffalo Chicken Pasta, combining creamy and spicy flavors for a delightful dish.
Making the Creamy Buffalo Sauce
- Melt the Butter:
In the same skillet used to cook the chicken, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. This adds richness to the sauce. - Add Cream Cheese:
Add 8 ounces of cream cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cream cheese is completely melted and smooth. - Incorporate Buffalo Sauce:
Stir in 1/2 cup of buffalo sauce. If you prefer extra heat, add a few dashes of hot sauce to taste. - Add Chicken Broth:
Gradually add 2 cups of chicken broth to the skillet, whisking constantly to combine. This helps to create a smooth, creamy sauce. - Season the Sauce:
Add 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Simmering the Sauce
- Simmer the Sauce:
Allow the sauce to simmer over low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps to thicken the sauce and meld the flavors together. - Add Cooked Chicken:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat it with the sauce. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat the chicken through.
Cooking the Pasta
While the sauce is simmering, it’s time to cook the pasta to perfection.
Preparing the Pasta
- Boil Water:
In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt to the boiling water to enhance the flavor of the pasta. - Cook the Pasta:
Add 8 ounces of pasta to the boiling water. Cook according to the package instructions until the pasta is al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. - Drain the Pasta:
Once the pasta is cooked, drain it well and set it aside.
Combining the Pasta and Sauce
- Add Pasta to Sauce:
Add the cooked and drained pasta to the skillet with the buffalo chicken sauce. Stir well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. - Incorporate Cheese:
Stir in 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and the pasta is creamy and well combined. - Adjust Seasoning:
Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Add more salt, pepper, or buffalo sauce to suit your preference.
Final Touches
- Garnish:
Sprinkle sliced green onions on top of the pasta for a fresh, flavorful garnish. This step is optional but adds a nice touch.
Serving and Storing Buffalo Chicken Pasta
Serving the Pasta
- Plating the Pasta:
Transfer the creamy buffalo chicken pasta to serving bowls or plates. Make sure each serving gets a generous amount of sauce and chicken for the best flavor experience. - Garnishing:
For an extra touch, garnish each serving with additional shredded cheese and a sprinkle of sliced green onions. You can also add a drizzle of extra buffalo sauce for more heat if desired. - Pairing Suggestions:
Buffalo Chicken Pasta pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. Serve with a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, here’s how to store them properly:
- Cool the Pasta:
Allow the pasta to cool to room temperature before storing. This helps to prevent condensation, which can make the pasta soggy. - Use Airtight Containers:
Transfer the cooled pasta to airtight containers. This will help maintain freshness and prevent the pasta from absorbing other odors in the refrigerator. - Refrigeration:
Store the pasta in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions
- Stovetop Method:
To reheat on the stovetop, place the pasta in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or milk to help loosen the sauce, and stir frequently until heated through. - Microwave Method:
For a quicker option, reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place the pasta in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring between intervals until hot.
Conclusion
Buffalo Chicken Pasta is a delicious, creamy, and spicy dish that brings together the best of both worlds: the bold flavors of buffalo chicken and the comforting texture of pasta. By following this recipe, you can create a meal that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends.
So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the irresistible taste of Buffalo Chicken Pasta. Your family and friends will be delighted with this flavorful and satisfying dish!