Creamy Buffalo Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Simplicity: Less mess and faster cleanup.

• High Flavor Impact: Rich buffalo sauce infused with garlic and cheese.

• Balanced Meal: Contains protein, vegetables, and carbs.

• Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level to suit your taste.

• Quick Cook Time: Ready in under 30 minutes.

• Kid-Approved: Creamy and cheesy textures make it family-friendly.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb cooked chicken, shredded or diced

• 12 oz pasta – Bowtie, penne, or rotini work well

• 2 cups broccoli florets – Fresh is ideal, but thawed frozen works too

• 2 cups chicken broth – Adds flavor to the base

• 1 cup heavy cream – For a rich and smooth sauce

• ½ cup buffalo sauce – Adjust to preferred spice level

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds savory depth

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Helps with creaminess

• 2 tablespoon cream cheese – Thickens and enriches the sauce

• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter – Used for sautéing

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Boosts flavor of the chicken

• Salt and pepper to taste – Season to your liking

• Green onions or parsley (optional) – For garnish

Directions

1. Sauté the Chicken
   In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the shredded cooked chicken and season it with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until warmed through.

2. Add Liquid Ingredients and Pasta
   Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and buffalo sauce. Stir to combine. Add the pasta and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook until the pasta is al dente, about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

3. Incorporate Cheeses and Broccoli
   Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the grated Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, and cream cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy. Add the broccoli florets and cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes until the broccoli is tender and the sauce has thickened.

4. Adjust Seasoning and Serve
   Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or buffalo sauce if desired. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version.

• Spicy Level: Increase or decrease the amount of buffalo sauce to adjust the heat.

• Cheese Blend: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for varied flavors.

• Add-ins: Include additional vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally to prevent the sauce from separating.

FAQs

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Increase the amount of buffalo sauce or add a dash of cayenne pepper to enhance the heat.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, thawed frozen broccoli works well in this recipe. Ensure it's drained and patted dry before adding.

What type of pasta is best for this dish?

Short pasta shapes like penne, bowtie, or rotini are ideal as they hold the sauce well.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken can save time and add convenience.

Is there a dairy-free version?

Yes, use plant-based cream, dairy-free cheeses, and buffalo sauce without dairy ingredients to make it dairy-free.

How do I prevent the sauce from separating?

Ensure the cream cheese is softened before adding, and stir continuously to incorporate it smoothly into the sauce.

Can I freeze this dish?

While the texture may change slightly upon reheating, you can freeze the dish in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

What can I serve with this pasta?

A simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables complement this dish well.

Can I adjust the creaminess?

Yes, add more cream cheese or reduce the amount of chicken broth to achieve your desired level of creaminess.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

The creamy texture and mild spice level make it appealing to children. Adjust the buffalo sauce to suit their taste preferences.

Conclusion

Creamy Buffalo Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a flavorful and satisfying meal that combines the heat of buffalo sauce with the comfort of a creamy pasta dish. Its one-pot preparation makes it convenient for busy weeknights, and its customizable nature allows for adjustments to suit various dietary preferences. Whether you're feeding a family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress with its bold flavors and comforting textures.