One Pot Honey Butter Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

So, I was hungry and wanted something sweet, spicy, and cheesy—like, all at once. That’s how I ended up making this One Pot Honey Butter Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Pasta. And oh wow… it totally hit the spot.

It’s buttery, a little sticky, a little spicy. The mozzarella gets all melty and stringy. And the buffalo sauce? Just enough kick to keep it fun.

Every bite has that sweet heat with creamy cheese goodness. The chicken soaks up all the flavor. I couldn’t stop eating—it’s that good.

You’ve gotta try this combo. Grab one pot and let’s make magic. This one’s a total weeknight win.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold and Balanced: The spicy kick from the buffalo sauce is mellowed out by sweet honey and rich butter.
• One-Pot Simplicity: Everything cooks in the same pot—from the chicken to the pasta—saving time and dishes.
• Cheesy and Creamy: Melty mozzarella and optional Parmesan bring that extra layer of creamy texture.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings: Serves 4–6 hungry people. Double it for meal prep or leftovers.

Difficulty: Easy enough for beginners, rewarding enough for pros.

Required Kitchen Tools

• Large deep skillet or Dutch oven (with lid)
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cheese grater (optional)

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this bold, buttery buffalo pasta. Exact measurements are in the recipe card at the end.

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb cooked chicken – shredded or diced; use rotisserie or leftover chicken for ease.
• 1 lb pasta – penne, rotini, or your favorite short-cut pasta.
• 4 cups chicken broth – enough to cook the pasta right in the sauce.

Sauce Ingredients:

• ½ cup honey – adds sweetness and balance to the heat.
• ½ cup butter – salted or unsalted; brings creaminess.
• ½ cup buffalo wing sauce – choose your preferred brand or heat level.

Cheese & Seasoning:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – for that gooey, cheesy finish.
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional) – for a little extra salty richness.
• Salt and black pepper – to taste.

Garnish (Optional):

• Chopped green onions
• Fresh parsley

Variations for Honey Butter Buffalo Chicken Pasta

• Make It Creamier: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a few tablespoons of cream cheese for an extra luscious sauce.
• Add Veggies: Toss in spinach, broccoli florets, or chopped bell peppers during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Swap the Protein: Try cooked ground chicken, turkey, or even chickpeas for a twist.
• Turn Up the Heat: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce if you like more spice.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure your buffalo sauce is certified gluten-free.

How to Make Honey Butter Buffalo Chicken Pasta – Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken (If Not Pre-Cooked)

If you’re not using pre-cooked chicken, start by sautéing 1 lb of diced chicken in a bit of olive oil until fully cooked. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside.

2. Start the Sauce Base

In your large pot or skillet, melt ½ cup butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in ½ cup honey and ½ cup buffalo wing sauce. Stir until the mixture looks smooth and starts to bubble slightly.

3. Add the Pasta and Broth

Pour in 4 cups chicken broth and stir in 1 lb dry pasta. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 12–15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

4. Stir in Chicken and Cheese

Once the pasta is cooked, add the cooked chicken back into the pot. Stir in 1 cup shredded mozzarella and ¼ cup Parmesan (if using). Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce turns creamy.

5. Taste and Adjust

Taste and adjust the salt and pepper. Add a splash more buffalo sauce if you want more heat.

6. Serve and Garnish

Spoon into bowls and top with chopped green onions or fresh parsley, if you like a pop of color and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta is a full meal on its own, but here are a few simple serving ideas:

• Pair with a crisp green salad to balance the richness.
• Serve with garlic bread or a toasted baguette to soak up the sauce.
• Top with extra cheese or a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing for more flavor contrast.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water.
• Freeze: You can freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Don’t overcook the pasta. Check it early to keep it tender but not mushy.
• Use rotisserie chicken to save time and still get flavorful results.
• Adjust the spice level easily by choosing a mild or hot buffalo sauce.
• Stir frequently during simmering to prevent sticking, especially near the end as the sauce thickens.

Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~540 kcal
Protein	32g
Carbohydrates	48g
Fat	25g
Saturated Fat	12g
Sugar	10g
Sodium	790mg

Note: Nutrition will vary based on the specific products and portions you use.

FAQs

Can I use uncooked chicken instead of pre-cooked?

Yes. Just dice it and sauté it in olive oil until it’s fully cooked. Then set it aside and follow the recipe as written.

What kind of buffalo sauce should I use?

Use your favorite! If you prefer mild, go with a basic wing sauce. For more heat, choose a hot buffalo sauce. Frank’s RedHot is a popular option.

Can I make this less spicy?

Absolutely. Use a mild sauce and cut the amount of buffalo sauce to ¼ cup. You can also add a splash of cream or ranch dressing to cool it down.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes. Mozzarella melts well, but you can use Monterey Jack, cheddar, or even pepper jack if you want extra flavor.

Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, just be sure to watch the cooking time since gluten-free pasta softens faster. Stir gently to avoid breakage.

How do I reheat leftovers?

Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water. Stir gently until warmed through.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes. Let it cool completely, then freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Conclusion

This recipe is cozy, flavorful, and simple—perfect for nights when you want a warm bowl of comfort without a pile of dishes. The honey butter buffalo combo adds something a little unexpected and totally crave-worthy.