Spicy buffalo chicken mixed with cheesy corkscrew pasta

corkscrew pasta
Spicy buffalo chicken mixed with cheesy corkscrew pasta
Description
Buffalo Chicken Cheddar Corkscrew Pasta Feast

corkscrew pasta
If you love bold flavors and creamy, cheesy pasta, this Buffalo Chicken Cheddar Corkscrew Pasta is the perfect dish for you! This recipe combines the fiery kick of Buffalo sauce with tender shredded chicken and a rich, cheesy sauce that clings perfectly to corkscrew-shaped pasta. The result is an indulgent, comforting meal that packs a punch with every bite.
The beauty of this dish lies in its perfect balance of heat and creaminess. The Buffalo sauce adds a spicy, tangy zing that contrasts beautifully with the smooth, melted cheddar and mozzarella. The addition of heavy cream and cream cheese ensures that the sauce is luscious and coats every piece of pasta evenly. For even more depth of flavor, a touch of garlic, paprika, and onion powder is added, enhancing the overall richness of the dish.

This pasta is incredibly versatile. You can prepare it as a quick weeknight dinner, a game-day treat, or even a crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings. If you prefer a crunchier texture, consider topping it with toasted panko breadcrumbs and baking it for a few minutes until golden brown. Garnishing with fresh green onions and crumbled blue cheese adds a finishing touch that elevates the dish to restaurant-quality levels.
Another great feature of this recipe is how easy it is to customize. You can make it milder by reducing the Buffalo sauce or turning up the heat by adding extra hot sauce or red pepper flakes. Additionally, using rotisserie chicken makes this meal even quicker to prepare, cutting down on prep time without sacrificing flavor.
Whether you’re a fan of spicy food or just love a creamy, cheesy pasta dish with a little extra kick, this Buffalo Chicken Cheddar Corkscrew Pasta is sure to become a favorite. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread, and you have a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying! 😋🔥
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Ingredients
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the corkscrew pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce:
- In a large pan over medium heat, melt butter with olive oil.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Stir in Buffalo sauce and heavy cream, then bring to a slight simmer.
Melt the Cheese:
- Reduce heat to low and stir in cheddar cheese, mozzarella, and cream cheese.
- Mix until fully melted and smooth.
Season and Add Chicken:
- Stir in paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the shredded chicken, tossing to coat in the sauce.
Combine with Pasta:
- Add the cooked corkscrew pasta, tossing everything together until fully coated.
Serve & Garnish:
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with green onions and blue cheese crumbles (if using).
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Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 580kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 35g54%
- Saturated Fat 18g90%
- Cholesterol 110mg37%
- Sodium 1200mg50%
- Total Carbohydrate 40g14%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Sugars 4g
- Protein 28g57%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
✅ Use fresh cheese for the best creamy texture (pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that affect melting).
✅ Adjust spice level by adding more/less Buffalo sauce.
✅ For extra crunch, top with toasted panko breadcrumbs before serving.
✅ Want a baked version? Pour into a baking dish, top with more cheese, and bake at 375°F for 10 minutes.
FAQ
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While corkscrew pasta (like cavatappi or rotini) works best for holding onto the creamy sauce, you can use penne, fusilli, or even macaroni as substitutes.
2. How can I make this dish less spicy?
To reduce the spice level, use less Buffalo sauce or mix it with mild BBQ sauce. Adding more cream cheese or heavy cream also helps balance the heat.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this pasta in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove with a splash of milk to keep it creamy.
4. Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Using shredded rotisserie chicken saves time and adds extra flavor. Just remove the skin and shred the meat before adding it to the sauce.
5. What’s the best cheese to use?
Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor, but you can mix it with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even Pepper Jack for extra cheesiness and spice.
6. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap out regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta, and ensure that your Buffalo sauce is gluten-free.
7. How do I make this into a baked pasta dish?
After mixing the pasta with the sauce, transfer it to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes until golden and bubbly.
8. What can I serve with this pasta?
A crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair well with this dish. If you love extra heat, serve with a side of celery and ranch or blue cheese dressing.
9. Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?
Yes! Try using cooked shrimp, shredded turkey, or even crispy tofu for a meat-free version with the same delicious Buffalo flavor.
10. Can I freeze this pasta?
Freezing is not recommended, as the creamy sauce may separate when thawed. However, you can store leftovers in the fridge and reheat them within a few days for the best texture.