Buffalo Chicken Pasta came into my kitchen one night when the fridge was running low and the kids were running wild. I had leftover chicken, half a block of cream cheese, and a bottle of buffalo sauce glaring at me from the door shelf. That night, I threw it all together with some pasta and cheese, and just like that, we had a new family favorite.
As a mom of two busy little ones and someone who still finds joy in dinner around the table, I’m always after meals that are comforting, budget-friendly, and crowd-pleasing. This cheesy buffalo chicken pasta checks every box. It’s bold and creamy with just enough heat to keep it exciting, but not so much that the kids can’t dive in (especially when there’s ranch on the side).
It reminds me of the cozy casseroles my grandma used to bake, only this one has a spicy kick and takes just 30 minutes to pull together. Perfect for chaotic weeknights, potlucks, or whenever your house is full and your time is short.
With its vibrant color and bubbling cheesy top, this one’s a real Pinterest darling too. It’s quick, cheap, and big-batch beautiful, everything we need in a dinner these days.
Why You’ll Love This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe
This is one of those recipes that saves dinner on a busy night. It’s simple, comforting, and full of flavor. The kind of dish that brings everyone to the table without a fuss. If you love easy, filling meals that don’t take much effort, this one will be on repeat.
- Bold, creamy, and cheesy with just enough heat
- Quick to make with minimal prep
- Uses everyday ingredients you already have
- Great for feeding a family or saving leftovers
- Kid-approved with ranch on the side
- Perfect for fall or any cozy weeknight
- Looks and tastes like comfort in a baking dish
What You’ll Need to Make Buffalo Chicken Pasta
This cheesy buffalo chicken pasta is packed with bold flavor but uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. It’s colorful, creamy, and baked until golden and bubbly. Here’s everything you need to bring it together:
- 12 oz pasta – penne or rotini work best for catching the sauce
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken – rotisserie is quick and flavorful
- 8 oz cream cheese – softens into a rich, creamy base
- 1 cup buffalo sauce – use your favorite, like Frank’s RedHot
- 1 cup ranch dressing – balances the spice with cool, tangy flavor
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – sharp cheddar adds the best bite
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese – for melty, stretchy texture
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder – adds a little savory depth
- Salt and pepper – adjust to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional) – for a pop of color on top
For another cozy and cheesy pasta idea, check out my Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Pasta
This recipe comes together in just a few simple steps. You can prep it ahead or bake it right away for a fast, filling meal.
- Cook the pasta.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta until just al dente, then drain and set aside. - Make the buffalo sauce mixture.
In a large bowl, mix the cream cheese, buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, and garlic powder. Stir until smooth and creamy. - Add the chicken and pasta.
Stir in the shredded chicken and cooked pasta. Toss everything together until fully coated. - Layer and top with cheese.
Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the cheddar and mozzarella evenly over the top. - Bake until bubbly.
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly with a golden top.
If you like this creamy pasta bake style, my Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is another great one to try next.
Serving Suggestions for Buffalo Chicken Pasta
This dish is bold and creamy on its own, but pairing it with a few simple sides makes it feel like a complete meal. Whether you’re feeding kids or a hungry group, here’s how to round it out.
Serve it with:
- A fresh green salad with ranch or blue cheese dressing
- Steamed broccoli or roasted green beans for a little balance
- Garlic bread or warm rolls to scoop up every bit of sauce
- Celery sticks on the side for that classic buffalo wing feel
- Ranch or blue cheese drizzled on top for extra flavor
Topping ideas:
- Chopped green onions or parsley for color
- Crumbled blue cheese for more bite
- A little extra hot sauce if you like heat
This dish is rich and filling, so even small portions go a long way. If you love these hearty-style meals, the Delicious Philly Cheese Steak Pasta is another dinner winner.
Variations and Easy Customizations
This buffalo chicken pasta is super flexible. You can adjust it based on what your family likes or what you have in the kitchen.
Switch up the protein
- Use ground chicken, turkey, or leftover grilled chicken
- Try shredded rotisserie chicken to save time
- Swap in cooked crumbled bacon for a smoky twist
Make it vegetarian
- Skip the chicken and stir in sautéed mushrooms or roasted cauliflower
- Use meatless chicken-style strips or chickpeas for protein
Adjust the heat level
- Use mild buffalo sauce or more ranch if serving kids
- Add a few dashes of hot sauce for extra kick
- Mix in pepper jack cheese for a spicier topping
Add veggies
- Stir in cooked spinach, broccoli, or diced bell peppers
- Add frozen peas or corn for extra texture
Make it low carb
- Use cooked spaghetti squash or cauliflower pasta
- Try my Easy Low-Carb Chicken Casserole for a lighter option
These swaps make it easy to serve this again and again without it feeling like the same dish.
How to Store and Reheat Buffalo Chicken Pasta
This pasta holds up really well for leftovers. In fact, the flavors get even better the next day.
To store:
Let the pasta cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days.
To reheat:
Microwave individual portions for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring halfway through. For the best texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. Add a splash of milk or broth if the sauce thickens up too much.
To freeze:
Place leftovers in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
For another comforting dinner that saves well, try this cozy Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice.
Pro Tips for the Best Buffalo Chicken Pasta
- Shred chicken ahead of time
Rotisserie or leftover baked chicken works great and saves prep time. - Mix the sauce while the pasta cooks
This keeps things moving and dinner on the table faster. - Use room temperature cream cheese
It melts easier and blends smoother into the sauce. - Bake uncovered
This helps the top get golden and bubbly, which makes the texture even better. - Let it rest before serving
Give it 5 to 10 minutes after baking. The sauce thickens, and the flavor sets.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the pasta
Boil it just until al dente. It will cook more in the oven and you want it to hold its shape. - Using cold cream cheese
Cold cream cheese is hard to mix and can leave lumps. Let it soften at room temp first. - Not seasoning the sauce
Taste before baking. Depending on your buffalo sauce, you may want a little extra salt or garlic. - Skipping the rest time
Letting the pasta sit for a few minutes after baking makes it creamier and easier to serve. - Overloading on heat
It’s easy to go overboard with spice. Start with less buffalo sauce if you’re cooking for kids.
Final Thoughts on Buffalo Chicken Pasta
Buffalo chicken pasta is the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table fast. It’s easy, filling, and full of flavor. Whether you’re feeding your family on a busy weeknight or need something simple and satisfying, this one always hits the spot. I hope it becomes a new favorite in your kitchen, just like it did in mine.
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe: Easy, Cheesy, Family Favorite
Buffalo Chicken Pasta is a creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy comfort food perfect for busy weeknights. Made with simple pantry staples like shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, and pasta, it’s a crowd-pleasing meal the whole family will love. This recipe is a great option for fall and winter dinners, perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix cream cheese, buffalo sauce, ranch, and garlic powder until smooth.
- Stir in the shredded chicken and cooked pasta. Mix to coat evenly.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Top with cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
- Bake at 375°F for 20 to 25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
Serving Size 1 bowl
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 480kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 24g37%
- Saturated Fat 11g56%
- Cholesterol 95mg32%
- Sodium 900mg38%
- Potassium 380mg11%
- Total Carbohydrate 35g12%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Sugars 4g
- Protein 28g57%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Use mild buffalo sauce for a kid-friendly version.
- Add frozen or roasted veggies for extra nutrition.
- Can be made ahead and stored in the fridge before baking.
