Creamy Buffalo Chicken Penne – Spicy Cheesy One-Pan Pasta Dinner

Introduction

Creamy Buffalo Chicken Penne is the perfect fusion of bold, spicy buffalo flavor and rich, comforting creaminess. This irresistible pasta dish brings together tender chicken, al dente penne, and a velvety buffalo-infused sauce that delivers heat, tang, and cheesy goodness in every bite. It’s the ultimate comfort food for anyone who loves buffalo wings but wants them in a hearty, satisfying pasta form.

What makes this recipe so special is its balance. The spicy kick of buffalo sauce is mellowed by cream, cheese, and butter, creating a smooth and flavorful sauce that isn’t overwhelming. The result is a dish that’s bold yet approachable, making it perfect for both spice lovers and casual eaters.

This pasta is ideal for busy weeknights, game-day dinners, family meals, or meal prep. It comes together quickly in one pan and uses simple ingredients that are easy to find. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or cooking for yourself, Creamy Buffalo Chicken Penne guarantees big flavor with minimal effort.

If you’re looking for a meal that’s comforting, exciting, and unforgettable, this recipe deserves a spot in your regular rotation.

Ingredients

12 oz penne pasta

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)

¾ cup buffalo sauce (adjust to taste)

½ cup chicken broth

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon paprika

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

2 tablespoons butter

Optional garnish: chopped parsley, green onions, ranch drizzle

Preparation
Step 1:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and cook for 5–7 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

Step 3:

In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and buffalo sauce, stirring to combine.

Step 4:

Reduce heat to medium-low and stir in heavy cream. Simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 5:

Add cooked pasta and chicken back to the skillet. Stir in mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Mix well and serve hot.

Variations

Extra Spicy: Add more buffalo sauce or cayenne pepper

Mild Version: Use less buffalo sauce and more cream

Ranch Buffalo Pasta: Stir in ranch dressing or seasoning

Blue Cheese Style: Add crumbled blue cheese

Low-Carb Option: Replace pasta with zucchini noodles

Cooking Note

Keep heat low after adding cream and cheese. High heat can cause the sauce to separate and become grainy. Gentle simmering ensures a smooth, silky texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with garlic bread or breadsticks

Pair with celery and carrot sticks

Add a side Caesar salad

Top with ranch or blue cheese dressing

Serve with iced tea or lemonade

Tips

Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting

Don’t overcook pasta—it will soften more in the sauce

Taste sauce before serving and adjust spice level

Add pasta water if sauce becomes too thick

Let pasta rest 3 minutes before serving

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

25 minutes

Total Time:

40 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)

Calories: 610

Protein: 40g

Sodium: 940mg

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes. Simply shred it and add it during Step 5.

Is this dish very spicy?
It’s moderately spicy. You can adjust the heat by changing the amount of buffalo sauce.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently with milk or broth.

Can I freeze Creamy Buffalo Chicken Penne?
Cream-based sauces don’t freeze well, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.

What pasta works best?
Penne is ideal, but rotini, rigatoni, or shells also work well.

Conclusion

Creamy Buffalo Chicken Penne is bold, comforting, and incredibly satisfying. With its perfect balance of spicy buffalo sauce, creamy cheese, tender chicken, and hearty pasta, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor right at home. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, it’s the perfect choice for busy nights, casual gatherings, or anytime you crave something rich and exciting.

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