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! 😋🔥
Cook the Pasta:
Prepare the Sauce:
Melt the Cheese:
Season and Add Chicken:
Combine with Pasta:
Serve & Garnish:
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Servings 6
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
✅ 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor, but you can mix it with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even Pepper Jack for extra cheesiness and spice.
Yes! Simply swap out regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta, and ensure that your Buffalo sauce is gluten-free.
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.
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.
Yes! Try using cooked shrimp, shredded turkey, or even crispy tofu for a meat-free version with the same delicious Buffalo flavor.
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.
