If you’re a fan of bold flavors and quick meals, this One-Pot Buffalo Chicken Pasta is your next go-to dinner. It’s creamy, cheesy, slightly spicy, and loaded with tender chicken — all made in a single pot for easy cleanup.
This dish brings together the comfort of pasta with the zesty kick of buffalo sauce. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, game day meals, or anyone who loves a little heat in their dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound chicken breast or thighs, cut into small cubes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 ½ cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (adjust to spice level)
- 8 ounces penne or rotini pasta
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup cream cheese
- 1 green onion or parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper and sauté until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté garlic: In the same pot, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add liquids and pasta: Pour in chicken broth, milk, and buffalo sauce. Stir in the uncooked pasta and bring to a gentle boil.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to medium-low and let simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and liquid has mostly absorbed.
- Add cheese and chicken: Stir in shredded cheese, cream cheese, and cooked chicken. Mix until creamy and well combined.
- Serve: Garnish with green onions or parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-pot meal = fewer dishes
- Spicy, creamy, and cheesy all in one
- Easy to customize spice and cheese levels
- Ready in under 30 minutes
Tips & Variations
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time
- Adjust buffalo sauce to taste – add more for extra heat
- Try ranch or blue cheese drizzle on top for added flavor
- Leftovers store well for up to 3 days in the fridge