Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a creamy, cheesy, and flavor-packed dish inspired by the restaurant’s beloved garlic Parmesan sauce. This garlic Parmesan pasta recipe features tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce that’s both rich and satisfying. Perfect for fans of Buffalo Wild Wings-inspired chicken pasta, this dish brings restaurant-quality flavor right to your kitchen.
Whether you’re craving a wild wings pasta dish, looking for a comforting parmesan chicken pasta with a twist, or searching for an easy chicken pasta recipe, this recipe delivers in every way. Let’s dive into how to make this delectable pasta at home.
Ingredients for Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
To recreate the iconic Buffalo Wild Wings garlic Parmesan chicken pasta, you’ll need a mix of fresh and flavorful ingredients. These components come together to deliver the creamy, cheesy goodness of a restaurant-style chicken pasta with the satisfaction of homemade cooking.
Essential Ingredients for the Pasta
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are perfect for tender, juicy bites in this chicken pasta with Parmesan cheese.
- Pasta: Use penne, fettuccine, or linguine to create a base that holds the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce beautifully.
- Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce: For an authentic taste, use the restaurant’s bottled sauce, or make your own Buffalo Wild Wings garlic sauce recipe at home.
- Heavy Cream: Creates the rich, velvety texture of the sauce in this creamy Buffalo Wild Wings pasta dish.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is key for a bold, cheesy flavor in the sauce.
- Butter and Olive Oil: For sautéing the chicken and creating the base of the sauce.
- Garlic: Minced garlic enhances the dish’s garlic butter Parmesan pasta flavor.
Optional Add-Ons for More Flavor
- Red Pepper Flakes: Add a touch of spice for a spicy Parmesan chicken pasta twist.
- Spinach: Toss fresh spinach into the sauce for added nutrition.
- Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms add a savory, earthy flavor to this homemade Buffalo Wild Wings pasta.
- Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of zest brightens the dish and complements the creamy sauce.
For Garnish
- Parsley: Freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to your parmesan garlic chicken dinner.
- Extra Parmesan Cheese: Because there’s no such thing as too much cheese in this chicken and pasta with garlic sauce.
With these ingredients, you’re ready to create a dish that rivals the original Buffalo Wild Wings-inspired chicken pasta.
For a classic garlic parmesan pasta recipe, visit Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta to explore a rich and creamy variation.
How to Make Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
Recreating Buffalo Wild Wings garlic Parmesan chicken pasta at home is easy with this step-by-step guide. You’ll achieve a restaurant-style chicken pasta that’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor.
Prepare the Chicken
- Season the Chicken: Sprinkle salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning over both sides of the chicken breasts or thighs.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).
- Rest and Slice: Remove the chicken from the skillet, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice or cube it for your parmesan garlic chicken dinner.
Cook the Pasta
- Boil the Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta (penne, fettuccine, or linguine) until al dente according to package instructions.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining, reserve 1 cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency later.
Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet used for the chicken, add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Sauce Base: Stir in the Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce, heavy cream, and a splash of chicken broth.
- Melt the Cheese: Whisk in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired for a spicy Parmesan chicken pasta.
Combine the Pasta and Sauce
- Toss the Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it to coat each piece evenly in the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce.
- Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, use reserved pasta water to thin it out to your desired consistency.
Add the Chicken and Finish
- Combine Chicken: Return the sliced chicken to the skillet, mixing it with the pasta and sauce to let the flavors meld together.
- Garnish and Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese for the perfect finishing touch.
This garlic Parmesan chicken pasta recipe is now ready to serve, offering the same indulgent flavors as the wild wings pasta dish from Buffalo Wild Wings.
Tips for Perfect Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Making Buffalo Wild Wings garlic Parmesan chicken pasta at home is easy, but these tips will help ensure it turns out perfectly every time. From achieving the best flavors to ensuring a smooth sauce, these tricks will elevate your garlic Parmesan pasta recipe to the next level.
Use High-Quality Ingredients
- Chicken: Choose fresh, boneless chicken breasts or thighs for tender, juicy bites in your parmesan chicken pasta with a twist.
- Parmesan Cheese: Always use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother, richer creamy garlic Parmesan sauce that melts evenly.
- Buffalo Wild Wings Sauce: If possible, use the bottled Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce for an authentic flavor. Otherwise, a homemade version works beautifully.
Cook Pasta Al Dente
- Undercook your pasta slightly (al dente), as it will continue to absorb the sauce when mixed. This keeps the chicken and pasta with garlic sauce from becoming mushy.
Balance the Sauce Consistency
- If the sauce is too thick, thin it with reserved pasta water or chicken broth.
- If it’s too thin, whisk in additional Parmesan cheese or a small amount of cornstarch dissolved in water to thicken it.
Avoid Overcooking the Chicken
- Cook the chicken just until the internal temperature reaches 165°F to avoid dryness. Let it rest before slicing to retain its juices, ensuring tender pieces in your parmesan garlic chicken dinner.
Add Depth of Flavor
- Garlic: Sauté garlic until just fragrant—overcooking it can result in a bitter taste.
- Seasonings: Add Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, or a pinch of smoked paprika to enhance the sauce’s flavor profile.
Customize with Add-Ons
- Vegetables: Add spinach, mushrooms, or steamed broccoli to turn this into a complete chicken pasta with garlic Parmesan flavor.
- Spices: For a spicy Parmesan chicken pasta, increase the red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce.
Presentation Matters
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese for a polished, restaurant-quality look.
- Serve in a shallow bowl or large plate to highlight the creamy texture of the creamy Buffalo Wild Wings pasta dish.
Plan for Leftovers
- Storing: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to refresh the sauce.
These tips will help you achieve a restaurant-style chicken pasta that’s as delicious as the dish served at Buffalo Wild Wings.
Creative Variations and Add-Ons for Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
While Buffalo Wild Wings garlic Parmesan chicken pasta is already a crowd-pleaser, adding your own twist can make it even more exciting. These variations and add-ons allow you to customize this wild wings pasta dish to suit your taste and dietary preferences.
Add More Vegetables
- Spinach: Stir in fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients and a pop of color.
- Broccoli: Steamed or roasted broccoli adds texture and complements the creamy sauce in your chicken pasta with Parmesan cheese.
- Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms bring a rich, earthy flavor to this chicken and garlic pasta recipe.
- Bell Peppers: Add diced bell peppers for a touch of sweetness and a colorful presentation.
Protein Alternatives
- Shrimp: Swap the chicken for shrimp to create a seafood variation of this garlic butter Parmesan pasta. Add the shrimp during the last 5-7 minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking.
- Turkey or Ground Chicken: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter, quicker version of this homemade Buffalo Wild Wings pasta.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and replace it with chickpeas, tofu, or plant-based meat substitutes for a vegetarian-friendly dish.
Turn Up the Heat
- Spicy Sauce: Add a splash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper for a fiery take on this spicy Parmesan chicken pasta.
- Jalapeños: Include sliced jalapeños for a fresh, spicy kick that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
Heading 3: Cheese Variations
- Mozzarella: Mix in shredded mozzarella for an extra cheesy, gooey texture in your creamy garlic Parmesan sauce.
- Asiago or Pecorino: Substitute or combine Parmesan with Asiago or Pecorino Romano for a nuttier, more complex flavor.
Low-Carb and Gluten-Free Options
- Zucchini Noodles: Replace pasta with spiralized zucchini to create a low-carb garlic Parmesan chicken pasta.
- Spaghetti Squash: Roast spaghetti squash and use it as a pasta alternative for a gluten-free option.
- Gluten-Free Pasta: Swap traditional pasta for a gluten-free variety to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Make It a Casserole
Transform your parmesan crusted chicken pasta into a baked casserole:
- Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and sauce in a baking dish.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs and shredded Parmesan on top.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
Add a Citrus Twist
- Zest a lemon over the finished dish or add a splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavors in your chicken pasta with garlic Parmesan flavor.
These variations make Buffalo Wild Wings garlic Parmesan chicken pasta even more versatile, ensuring there’s a version for everyone to enjoy.
To learn more about pasta and its origins, check out What Is the Oldest Pasta in the World?.
Serving Suggestions and Health Considerations
Buffalo Wild Wings garlic Parmesan chicken pasta is a rich and indulgent dish, but with thoughtful serving ideas and health-conscious adjustments, it can become a balanced meal suitable for various occasions.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Dishes
- Salad: Pair this garlic chicken pasta recipe with a crisp Caesar or garden salad for a refreshing contrast to the creamy sauce.
- Vegetables: Serve with steamed or roasted vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or zucchini to add fiber and color.
- Garlic Bread: A slice of warm garlic bread complements the chicken pasta with creamy garlic sauce perfectly.
- Beverage Pairings
- White Wine: A dry Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with the creamy and cheesy flavors of this restaurant-style chicken pasta.
- Non-Alcoholic Options: Lemon-infused sparkling water or iced tea offers a light and refreshing complement to the dish.
- Desserts
- Finish the meal with a light dessert like fruit salad, lemon sorbet, or a small serving of tiramisu to round out the Italian-inspired theme.
Health Considerations
- Lighter Sauce Options
- Replace heavy cream with half-and-half, unsweetened almond milk, or low-fat milk to make the creamy Buffalo Wild Wings pasta dish lighter.
- Protein Choices
- Use skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs to reduce fat content while keeping the dish high in protein.
- Incorporate Vegetables
- Adding vegetables like spinach or broccoli turns this wild wings pasta dish into a more balanced and nutritious meal.
- Portion Control
- Serve pasta in 1-cup portions alongside a generous helping of salad or vegetables to avoid overeating.
- Low-Carb and Gluten-Free Options
- For a low-carb garlic Parmesan chicken pasta, substitute traditional pasta with spiralized zucchini, spaghetti squash, or cauliflower rice.
- Opt for gluten-free pasta to make the dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Make It Heart-Healthy
- Use olive oil instead of butter for sautéing the chicken and garlic, reducing saturated fat in the parmesan garlic chicken dinner.
For a healthier take on creamy pasta dishes, visit Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta for tips on lightening up your favorite meals.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
- Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to refresh the sauce.
- Freezing: The sauce and chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw and combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.
With these serving ideas and health tips, Buffalo Wild Wings garlic Parmesan chicken pasta becomes a versatile dish that fits into both indulgent and balanced meal plans.
FAQs About Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Can I make this dish without Buffalo Wild Wings sauce?
Yes! If you don’t have the bottled sauce, you can make a homemade Buffalo Wild Wings pasta by preparing a garlic Parmesan sauce using heavy cream, butter, garlic, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Add a pinch of Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes for added flavor.
What’s the best pasta for this recipe?
Penne, fettuccine, or linguine are ideal for this garlic Parmesan chicken pasta recipe because they hold the creamy sauce well. Short pasta shapes like rigatoni or bowties are also great options.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover chicken and pasta with garlic sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or broth to keep the sauce creamy.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients, like the Buffalo Wild Wings sauce or chicken broth, are certified gluten-free.
How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
To prevent curdling, keep the heat low when adding cream or Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously and avoid boiling the sauce.
Can I freeze this dish?
While pasta doesn’t freeze well, you can freeze the sauce and chicken separately for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat them, then combine with freshly cooked pasta for a quick meal.
Conclusion
Buffalo Wild Wings garlic Parmesan chicken pasta combines the bold flavors of garlic, Parmesan, and tender chicken in a creamy, indulgent dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This wild wings pasta dish captures the essence of the restaurant favorite while offering the satisfaction of homemade cooking.
Whether you’re craving a creamy Buffalo Wild Wings pasta dish, looking for a quick chicken pasta dinner, or exploring ways to customize a parmesan garlic chicken dinner, this recipe delivers every time. With its versatility, ease of preparation, and rich flavors, it’s bound to become a family favorite.
Try this Buffalo Wild Wings-inspired chicken pasta today and enjoy the taste of a restaurant-quality meal from the comfort of your home!