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Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe

Buffalo Chicken Pasta is a spicy and creamy comfort food that combines tender chicken, tangy buffalo sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. This dish is an exciting twist on classic pasta recipes, offering bold flavors and a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
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Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Medium skillet
  • Whisk
  • Mixing bowls
  • Tongs

Ingredients
  

  • For the Chicken:
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • For the Pasta and Sauce:
  • 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup buffalo sauce adjust to taste
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika optional
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • For Garnish:
  • Chopped green onions or parsley
  • Crumbled blue cheese or ranch dressing optional

Instructions
 

  • Cook the Pasta:
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
  • Cook the Chicken:
  • In a mixing bowl, toss the chicken with garlic powder, paprika, and salt until well-coated.
  • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  • Make the Buffalo Sauce:
  • In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  • Stir in heavy cream and buffalo sauce. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  • Add mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and smoked paprika, whisking until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Combine Pasta and Chicken:
  • Toss the cooked pasta and chicken into the buffalo sauce, mixing until everything is evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to thin it out.
  • Garnish and Serve:
  • Transfer the pasta to serving bowls. Garnish with green onions, parsley, or crumbled blue cheese, if desired.
  • Serve immediately with ranch or additional buffalo sauce on the side.