Name: Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 16 ounces rigatoni; 4 tablespoons butter; 2 cups heavy cream; 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (like Frank’s red hot); 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; Kosher salt, to taste; Fresh cracked pepper, to taste; 4 ounces shredded mild cheddar cheese; 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken; Thinly sliced green onion; Crumbled blue cheese

Print Recipe· 4.1 from 10 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bold flavor, creamy texture, and just the right amount of spicy kick, this Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need on your dinner table. Imagine tender rigatoni swimming in a luscious, buttery sauce spiked with buffalo heat and melty cheese, all topped off with juicy shredded chicken and a sprinkle of blue cheese that takes every bite to the next level. This dish feels like a warm hug for your taste buds and comes together effortlessly in about 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight winner or a crowd-pleaser for your next gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A round white pot with light blue handles holds a dish with two main layers. The bottom layer is a smooth orange creamy sauce that fills the pot evenly. On the left side of the pot, there are pieces of shredded white cooked chicken placed over the sauce. On the right side, there are short tube-shaped rigatoni pasta pieces arranged neatly next to the chicken. The pot sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the ingredients together is super simple, and each one plays a key role in crafting the rich, spicy, and savory profile that defines this recipe. From the creamy base to the punchy buffalo sauce and those irresistible garnishes, every component matters.

16 ounces rigatoni: The perfect pasta shape to hold onto every bit of that creamy, spicy sauce.
4 tablespoons butter: Adds a silky richness that forms the base of the sauce.
2 cups heavy cream: Creates the indulgently creamy texture that coats the pasta beautifully.
1/2 cup buffalo sauce (like Frank’s Red Hot): Brings the signature spicy tang and vibrant color to the dish.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory depth without overpowering the buffalo flavor.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a subtle aromatic warmth.
1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds a mild smoky note and a hint of earthy sweetness.
4 ounces shredded mild cheddar cheese: Melts perfectly to round out the sauce with creamy, mellow cheesiness.
2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken: Provides tender, juicy protein that absorbs all those delicious flavors.
Thinly sliced green onion, for garnish: Offers a fresh and slightly sharp contrast to the creamy sauce.
Crumbled blue cheese, for garnish: Delivers that bold, tangy punch that buffalo lovers crave.
Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors.
Fresh cracked pepper: Adds a touch of spicy heat and aroma.

How to Make Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by boiling the rigatoni according to the package directions until it’s just al dente. This means the pasta should have a slight bite to it, which is crucial because it will continue cooking a bit when combined with the sauce. Drain and set aside, but don’t rinse — we want all that starch to help the sauce cling.

Step 2: Prepare the Buffalo Cream Sauce

In a large sauté pan, melt the butter over medium heat until it’s bubbly and fragrant. Then stir in the heavy cream, buffalo sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, and generous pinches of kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Let this mingle for a few minutes on gentle heat so the flavors meld together into a velvety, spicy base that’s absolutely irresistible.

Step 3: Melt in the Cheese

Next, fold in the shredded mild cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until it melts completely into the sauce. This step transforms the mixture into a creamy, cheesy wonder that perfectly balances the heat of the buffalo sauce.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Chicken

Now, toss in the cooked rigatoni and shredded rotisserie chicken. Stir everything until well coated and heated through. Take a moment to taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed — this ensures every bite is balanced.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Finally, sprinkle thinly sliced green onions and crumbled blue cheese generously over the top. These garnishes not only add beautiful pops of color but also deliver layers of flavor and textural contrast that make each mouthful a celebration.

How to Serve Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe

A deep green plate holds a single layer of rigatoni pasta coated in a creamy orange sauce. Scattered on top are thin slices of white chicken pieces and small crumbles of pale blue cheese. Thin green slices of scallions are spread evenly over the dish, adding a fresh contrast. A gold fork rests on the left side of the plate, and the plate is set on a white marbled surface with a folded striped blue and green cloth napkin nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Don’t skimp on the garnishes! The bright green onion slices add freshness and a tiny bit of crunch, while the bold, tangy blue cheese crumbles lend a luxurious contrast to the creamy sauce. You can also add extra buffalo sauce drizzle for those who crave more heat or a handful of chopped parsley for a splash of green.

Side Dishes

This Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides that complement and cool down the spicy richness. Crisp celery sticks and carrot sticks with ranch dip are classic buffalo companions. A fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables also offer refreshing bites to balance out the indulgence.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to impress your guests? Serve this pasta in shallow bowls, then add a few whole buffalo wing drumettes on the side for a fun twist. Or bake the assembled pasta with an extra sprinkle of cheddar and blue cheese on top until golden and bubbly to create a cozy casserole-style dish that’s perfect for cooler evenings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover creamy buffalo chicken pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for quick lunch or dinner the next day. Make sure to cool the dish before sealing to preserve the sauce’s creaminess.

Freezing

This pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze leftovers if needed. Transfer portions to freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that the sauce may separate slightly upon thawing, but gentle reheating with a splash of cream or milk can help revive its texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently. Adding a little splash of cream or water while warming will help restore the smooth, creamy sauce consistency without drying out the pasta or chicken.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely! While rigatoni is perfect for holding the sauce, penne, fusilli, or even shells would work beautifully. Just choose a sturdy pasta shape that can trap that creamy buffalo goodness.

Is it possible to make this recipe less spicy?

Yes! Reduce the amount of buffalo sauce or use a milder buffalo sauce brand. You can also add a bit more heavy cream or cheese to tone down the heat while keeping it flavorful.

Can I substitute the chicken?

If you prefer, shredded cooked turkey or even tofu cubes can be used instead of shredded chicken. Just be mindful of the cooking times and seasoning adjustments to keep everything tasty and balanced.

What type of buffalo sauce is best?

Classic buffalo sauces like Frank’s Red Hot are the gold standard for this recipe thanks to their perfect balance of heat and tang. However, feel free to explore craft or homemade buffalo sauces to customize the flavor to your liking.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

It would take some creative substitutions, like using dairy-free cream and cheese alternatives and adjusting the sauce, but it’s possible. Keep in mind that some texture and flavor might be different since this recipe celebrates creamy dairy ingredients heavily.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe is the kind of dish that instantly becomes a favorite — comforting, flavorful, and just the right amount of spicy to keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re sharing it with family, friends, or savoring it all to yourself, it brings that inviting warmth and excitement that every great meal should. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a must-make in your recipe rotation!