Buffalo Chicken Pasta (Printable Version)
# What You'll Need:
→ Protein
01 -
1 large boneless skinless chicken breast (approximately 1 lb)
→ Sauce Components
02 -
½ cup blue cheese dressing
03 -
2 tablespoons butter, divided
04 -
½ cup buffalo sauce
05 -
8 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
06 -
1.5 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
07 -
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
08 -
2 tablespoons cold butter (optional)
→ Aromatics
09 -
½ cup yellow onion, diced
10 -
1 stick celery, diced
11 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
→ Base Ingredients
12 -
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
13 -
4 cups chicken broth
14 -
1 lb penne pasta
15 -
1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
# How to Make It:
01 -
Set the cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese out ahead of time to reach room temperature before adding them to the pasta.
02 -
Place chicken in a pot of water and bring to a gentle boil. Cook for 15 minutes, until cooked through. Remove and use two forks to shred. Toss with blue cheese dressing and set aside.
03 -
Melt butter in a large high-walled skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and celery. Cook for 5 minutes, until softened. Add the garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
04 -
Add the undrained diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil and add the pasta. Submerge the pasta into the liquid and let it come back up to a boil. Cover and cook for 10-13 minutes, or until al dente.
05 -
Reduce heat to low. Add the buffalo sauce, cubed cream cheese, and shredded cheeses. Use a silicone spatula to gently stir until smooth. The sauce will thicken as it stands.
06 -
Add the shredded chicken and red pepper flakes. For a professional finish, swirl in 2 tablespoons cold butter (Monter au Beurre technique) once sauce is near desired consistency.
# Handy Tips:
01 -
Use slightly less than a pound of pasta if you prefer extra sauce, especially if planning for leftovers
02 -
Ensure cream cheese is fully softened for proper melting
03 -
Boil chicken gently to maintain tenderness
04 -
Shredding cheese from a block yields creamier results than pre-shredded varieties
05 -
Add cheese over low heat to prevent separation and graininess
06 -
Ranch dressing can substitute for blue cheese if preferred