Description
A creamy and spicy Buffalo Chicken Pasta that combines tender cooked chicken, penne pasta, and a rich buffalo sauce with cream cheese and chicken broth. Topped with melted mozzarella and cheddar cheese, this comforting oven-baked dish is perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner. Optional ranch or blue cheese dressing adds an extra layer of tangy flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Sauce
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
Protein and Cheese
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast or thigh, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup cheddar cheese
Optional Toppings
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions, about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta well to remove excess water.
- Combine Sauce Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked pasta, cream cheese, buffalo sauce, chicken broth, garlic powder, and kosher salt. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is creamy and evenly combined.
- Add Chicken: Fold the shredded cooked chicken gently into the pasta mixture, making sure it is distributed evenly throughout.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the pasta and chicken mixture to a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses generously on top.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the dish for about 20 minutes until the cheeses are melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
- Serve: Remove from oven and if desired, drizzle with ranch or blue cheese dressing before serving for an additional tangy flavor.
Notes
- Using rotisserie chicken can speed up preparation.
- Fresh garlic can substitute garlic powder for more intense flavor.
- Adjust buffalo sauce quantity to control spiciness.
- For a lower calorie version, use reduced-fat cheeses and omit the dressing.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
