One Pot Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Hey, do you love creamy pasta with a spicy kick? I sure do! This One Pot Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta is everything I want—easy, tasty, and full of bold flavors.

You cook the chicken, pasta, and sauce all in one pot, making dinner super quick and cleanup a breeze. Plus, that creamy buffalo sauce? So good and comforting.

If you want a spicy, creamy meal that’s fast and fuss-free, this pasta is perfect. Let me show you how I whip it up every time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Balanced Flavor: Creamy and spicy work together to give a smooth but bold taste.
• One Pot Wonder: Less cleanup, more time enjoying your meal.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes without complicated steps.
• Family-Friendly: Adjust the heat to suit kids or grown-ups.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Makes great leftovers that taste just as good the next day.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

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

Servings:
Makes about 6 hearty servings — perfect for a family dinner or meal prepping.

Difficulty:
Easy. Suitable for beginners or anyone wanting a fuss-free, tasty dinner.

Required Kitchen Tools

• Large deep skillet or wide pot with lid
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Colander for draining pasta

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to gather before starting:

• 8 ounces penne or rotini pasta
• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie or leftover works great)
• 2 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (adjust more or less to taste)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: chopped green onions for garnish

Variations for One Pot Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta

• Milder Version: Reduce the buffalo sauce or swap half of it with ranch dressing to tone down the heat.
• Extra Cheesy: Add mozzarella or pepper jack cheese along with cheddar for a gooey texture.
• Veggie Boost: Stir in cooked broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
• Different Protein: Substitute chicken with cooked turkey or even shredded rotisserie pork for a twist.
• Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream and dairy-free cheese alternatives to make it suitable for dairy-free diets.

How to Make One Pot Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Step-by-Step

1. Prepare the Pasta Base

Heat olive oil in your large skillet or pot over medium heat. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add the pasta directly into the liquid. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until pasta is tender but still firm (al dente).

2. Add the Chicken and Buffalo Sauce

Once pasta is cooked, stir in the shredded chicken and buffalo sauce. Mix well so the chicken warms through and the sauce evenly coats everything.

3. Make It Creamy and Cheesy

Lower the heat to medium-low. Add the cream cheese and shredded cheddar. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts completely and the sauce thickens into a smooth, creamy texture. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.

4. Final Touches and Serve

If you like, sprinkle chopped green onions on top for a fresh, mild bite and some color. Serve the pasta hot with a side salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal.

How to Serve One Pot Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta

This dish shines on its own but also pairs well with:

• Simple Sides: A crisp green salad or steamed broccoli balances the richness.
• Bread: Warm garlic bread or soft dinner rolls help mop up every last bit of sauce.
• Dips: A side of ranch or blue cheese dressing cools the heat for those who want it.

Storing and Reheating

• Storage: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth or milk if the sauce thickens too much.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Use freshly shredded chicken for the best texture and flavor.
• Don’t overcook the pasta during the first simmer; it will continue to soften when mixed with the sauce.
• Stir often when adding cheeses to prevent clumping.
• Adjust buffalo sauce amount slowly—it’s easier to add more heat than to take it away.
• For extra creaminess, a little bit of butter stirred in at the end can make a difference.

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Nutrition

Nutrient	Per Serving (approx.)
Calories	450
Protein	35g
Carbohydrates	30g
Fat	20g
Saturated Fat	10g
Fiber	2g
Sugar	3g
Sodium	700mg

One Pot Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta FAQs

Q: Can I use fresh chicken instead of shredded cooked chicken?
A: Yes, cook diced chicken breast first until no longer pink, then proceed with the recipe.

Q: How spicy is this dish?
A: The heat level depends on the buffalo sauce used. Adjust the amount to suit your taste.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: It’s best eaten fresh, but you can freeze leftovers in airtight containers for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Q: What pasta works best?
A: Medium shapes like penne, rotini, or shells hold the sauce well.

Conclusion

This One Pot Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta combines rich creaminess with a flavorful spicy kick, all in a quick, easy meal. Whether for a busy weeknight or meal prep, it’s a satisfying dish you can count on. With simple ingredients and minimal cleanup, it’s perfect for anyone who wants a fuss-free but delicious dinner.