Buffalo Chicken Pasta Skillet

This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Skillet is a one-pan wonder that combines bold buffalo flavors with creamy, cheesy goodness and tender pasta. Packed with diced chicken, zesty buffalo sauce, and a rich cheese blend, this dish is hearty, flavorful, and ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or game-day gatherings!

📋 Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup onion, diced
• ½ cup celery, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups chicken stock or broth
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 3½ cups dried rotini pasta
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• ½ cup ranch dressing
• ½ cup buffalo sauce (I use Frank’s RedHot Sauce)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Pinch red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
• 3 cups cooked and diced chicken

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat a large 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat . Add the butter , onion , and celery . Cook for 2–3 minutes , stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds , until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Pour in the chicken stock and diced tomatoes (with their juice). Stir to combine.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil. Add the dried rotini pasta , ensuring it’s fully submerged in the liquid. If needed, press the pasta down gently with a spoon.
3. Let the pasta boil uncovered for 9–10 minutes , stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Test the pasta for doneness—it should be tender but not mushy. If needed, cook for an additional 1–2 minutes .

Step 3: Add the Creamy Sauce

1. Reduce the heat to low . Add the cream cheese , cheddar cheese , mozzarella cheese , ranch dressing , buffalo sauce , salt , black pepper , and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine, allowing the cheeses to melt and create a creamy sauce. Let the mixture simmer on low for 1–2 minutes to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Combine with Chicken

1. Fold in the cooked and diced chicken , stirring gently to combine. Let the skillet heat through for another minute.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt , pepper , or buffalo sauce if desired.

Step 5: Serve

1. Spoon the Buffalo Chicken Pasta Skillet into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with extra shredded cheese, chopped green onions, or a drizzle of ranch dressing for added flair.

Tips for Success

• Pasta Choice: Use any short-cut pasta like penne, fusilli, or farfalle if rotini isn’t available. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time based on the package instructions.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce and red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference. For milder flavors, add more ranch dressing to balance the spice.
• Chicken Prep: Use leftover rotisserie chicken or cook diced chicken breasts beforehand for convenience.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days . Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Skillet is a flavor-packed meal that’s creamy, spicy, and utterly satisfying. The combination of tangy buffalo sauce, cool ranch dressing, and melty cheeses creates a crave-worthy sauce that coats every bite of pasta. With tender chicken and sautéed vegetables, it’s a complete and comforting dish made in just one pan for easy cleanup. Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Dive into this zesty, cheesy skillet and let it become a go-to favorite!

⏱ Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: ~30 minutes

🍽 Servings:

6 servings

🔥 Calories (Approximate):

~500 kcal per serving (varies based on portion size and optional ingredients)