This Easy One-Pot Buffalo Chicken Pasta is a fantastic meal that brings the spicy goodness of buffalo wings into a creamy pasta dish. All made in just one pot!
It’s super simple to whip up, and let’s be honest, who doesn’t love fewer dishes to wash? I can’t resist the cheesy, zesty flavors—perfect for a cozy night in!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish because they cook quickly. Alternatively, you can use rotisserie chicken to save time or even shredded turkey if you have leftovers.
Pasta: Penne works well for this recipe, but feel free to swap it out for other pasta shapes like fusilli or farfalle. Just keep an eye on cooking times if you choose something different.
Buffalo Wing Sauce: You can adjust the amount of wing sauce based on your heat preference. If you want a milder flavor, try using a mild hot sauce or mixing it with ranch dressing to tame the heat.
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess to the sauce. If you want a lighter option, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese for a healthier twist.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Pasta in One Pot?
Cooking pasta in one pot with all the other ingredients can save cleanup time but takes a bit of technique. Here’s how to get it right:
- Ensure the pot has enough liquid (like chicken broth) to cook the pasta perfectly. The pasta should be submerged.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This is important in a one-pot dish where everything is cooking together.
- Cover the pot while cooking to speed up the simmering process, but check occasionally to make sure it doesn’t boil over.
Following these steps will help you achieve a creamy, flavorful pasta dish without the hassle of multiple pots!
Easy One-Pot Buffalo Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups penne pasta (uncooked)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- ½ cup buffalo wing sauce (adjust to heat preference)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 green onions, sliced (optional for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll spend about 30-35 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and delicious meal that comes together easily in just one pot!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the bite-sized pieces of chicken and cook them for about 5-7 minutes until they are no longer pink. Make sure to stir occasionally to cook them evenly.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
Once the chicken is cooked, add the minced garlic to the pot. Sauté it for about 1 minute, or until it becomes fragrant. This adds a delicious flavor base to the dish!
3. Add the Pasta and Broth:
Next, pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir in the uncooked penne pasta and the diced tomatoes. Cover the pot and cook everything for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta becomes tender. Don’t forget to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Make It Creamy:
After the pasta is cooked, stir in the buffalo wing sauce, cream cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix them well until everything is combined and creamy. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to heat through and allow the sauce to thicken.
5. Season and Serve:
Finally, season your dish with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the pasta hot, and if you’d like, garnish with sliced green onions and freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Enjoy your creamy, spicy, and comforting one-pot buffalo chicken pasta! It’s a fantastic dish that’s easy to share with family and friends.
FAQ about Easy One-Pot Buffalo Chicken Pasta
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. Thaw chicken overnight in the fridge or place it in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for a quicker option. Once thawed, cut it into bite-sized pieces before cooking.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier or Milder?
To make it spicier, try adding extra buffalo wing sauce or even a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of buffalo sauce and mix in some ranch dressing to balance the heat. You can always adjust to your taste!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to reheat, you can warm it gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. If the pasta looks dry, add a splash of chicken broth or a bit of cream to loosen it up!
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time. Chop the chicken and veggies, and store them in the fridge. However, for the freshest flavor and texture, it’s best to cook the dish right before serving. You can cook the chicken and sauce in advance and combine it with the pasta right before serving for a quick meal!
