Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake is a delightful dish that captures the fiery essence of buffalo chicken while combining it with the heartiness of pasta. Imagine the comfort of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and a touch of heat all baked to perfection with gooey cheese on top.
Why We Love This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe
This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake is not just another pasta recipe; it combines distinct flavors and textures that make every bite an adventure. The tender pieces of chicken soaked in spicy buffalo sauce, mixed harmoniously with the creaminess of cheese and the savory delight of fresh tomatoes, create a symphony of taste that is irresistible. What’s more, it’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
You’ll appreciate how quickly all the fresh ingredients come together, resulting in a meal that’s sure to impress. The ability to customize the level of spice to suit your taste makes it especially appealing, allowing you to craft a dish that fits your preferences. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate more protein and veggies into your meals. This recipe is a win on every front!
Ingredients for Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake
To create the perfect Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake, gather the following ingredients:
- 400g (14oz) of uncooked boneless skinless chicken thighs or breast, diced
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Cooking oil spray
- 1 cup (240ml) of canned crushed tomatoes
- 1/3 cup (80ml) of hot sauce
- 350g (12.5oz) of diced fresh tomatoes
- 240g (8.5oz) of uncooked penne pasta
- 100g (3.5oz) of light cream cheese
- 1 cup (240ml) of chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of dried dill
- 1 teaspoon of dried parsley
- 30g (1oz) of cheddar, grated
- 50g (2oz) of mozzarella, grated
- 2 spring onions (green onions), sliced thinly
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake
Creating this tantalizing Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake is simple and rewarding. First, start by preparing your ingredients. This will streamline the cooking process and ensure everything comes together smoothly.
- Begin by spraying a frying pan with cooking oil spray. Over medium heat, add the diced onion. Sauté the onion until it becomes lightly golden and softened. This step develops a sweet and savory base for your dish.
- Introduce the diced chicken to the pan along with the paprika, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook the chicken until it is browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Browning the chicken adds a depth of flavor to the dish.
- As the chicken cooks, deglaze the pan with a splash of water to lift any browned bits stuck to the bottom, which adds even more flavor.
- Stir in the canned crushed tomatoes, hot sauce, and diced fresh tomatoes, and allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes. The heat from the hot sauce will blend beautifully with the tomatoes, creating a spicy, aromatic sauce.
- In the meantime, cook your penne pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water until it reaches an al dente texture. It’s crucial not to overcook the pasta as it will continue to cook in the oven later.
- Once cooked, drain the pasta and combine it with the chicken sauce mixture. Pour this delightful combination into an oven-proof dish, preparing it for baking.
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) for a few minutes while you make the creamy sauce. In a separate pan, mix the cream cheese, garlic and onion powder, dried parsley, dried dill, and chicken stock. Heat this mixture until it is melted and smooth, creating a heavenly sauce.
- To thicken, mix cornstarch with a bit of water to create a slurry. Add this to the creamy sauce and cook until it reaches your desired thickness. This step ensures a rich, creamy consistency that clings to your pasta.
- Spread the creamy sauce over the pasta mixture in the oven-safe dish, making sure every bite is coated.
- Finally, sprinkle the grated cheddar and mozzarella on top for that golden, bubbly finish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until the top is golden and the cheese is melted to perfection.
- Once baked, take the dish out of the oven, garnish with sliced spring onions, and serve hot!
How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake
When it comes to serving Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake, presentation is key. Use a large spoon to serve generous portions onto plates or into bowls. The dish can stand alone as a satisfying meal, but you can elevate it with a few simple sides.
Consider serving a fresh side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta bake. This adds a fresh and crispy contrast that enhances the flavors of the dish. You may also pair it with garlic bread or cheesy bread sticks for a satisfying, hearty accompaniment.
Don’t forget to bring out some extra hot sauce for those who enjoy an extra kick! With its comforting warmth and cheesy goodness, your Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake is sure to be the star of the dinner table.
Expert Tips for Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake
To achieve the best results with your Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake, here are some expert tips that will enhance your cooking experience:
- Chicken Choices: While this recipe calls for boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, feel free to use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. Just shred it and mix it in during the cooking process.
- Pasta Cooking: Be vigilant with your pasta cooking time. Since it will continue to cook in the oven, al dente is the way to go to prevent mushy pasta.
- Customize the Spice Level: If you love buffalo flavor but prefer less heat, reduce the amount of hot sauce. Conversely, if you crave a fiery dish, add an extra splash of hot sauce or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
- Cheese Alternatives: Experiment with different cheese blends to find what you and your guests enjoy the most. Pepper jack cheese can add a unique flavor twist!
- Baking Dish: If you don’t have an oven-proof dish, you can easily divide the mixture into smaller ramekins for individual servings. Just adjust your baking time accordingly.
How to Store Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake
Leftover Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake can be quite a treat on its own! To store this delicious dish, let it cool completely at room temperature. Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta bake. Just ensure it’s completely cooled, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag, making sure to squeeze out excess air. Frozen pasta will remain good for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations of Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake
This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are a few variations you can try to keep things fresh and exciting:
- Veggie-Loaded: Add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli to pack more nutrients and flavor into your dish. Sauté these along with the onion for a colorful addition.
- Cheesy Delight: For extra creaminess, consider mixing in some sour cream or Greek yogurt with the cream cheese. This adds a tangy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the spice.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten intolerance. Many available alternatives taste delicious in baked dishes.
- Buffalo Cauliflower: For a vegetarian-friendly version, swap chicken for roasted cauliflower florets tossed in buffalo sauce. This creates a hearty and flavorful bake without meat.
- Different Sauces: If you want to experiment, consider using barbecue sauce instead of buffalo sauce for a sweet and smoky flavor twist.
FAQ about Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake
What is Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake?
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake is a delicious dish that combines tender chicken, pasta, and spicy buffalo sauce, all baked with a crispy cheese topping.
Can I prepare Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking stage, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to a day. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve!
What can I serve with Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or even roasted vegetables.
How do I store leftovers from Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake?
Allow the pasta bake to cool before transferring it into an airtight container. It keeps well refrigerated for a few days or can be frozen for longer storage.
Can I adjust the spice level of Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake?
Yes! You can adjust the amount of hot sauce to make it milder or spicier according to your taste preferences.
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 400 g uncooked boneless skinless chicken thighs or breast, diced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
- 1/3 cup hot sauce
- 240 ml chicken stock
- 240 g uncooked penne pasta
- 100 g light cream cheese
- 2 spring onions (green onions) sliced thinly
Seasonings
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 onion diced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 30 g cheddar, grated
- 50 g mozzarella, grated
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Cooking oil spray
Optional Ingredients
- Additional hot sauce for serving
Instructions
Preparation
- Prepare all ingredients to streamline the cooking process.
Cooking Chicken
- Spray a frying pan with cooking oil spray and sauté the diced onion over medium heat until golden and softened.
- Add the diced chicken, paprika, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Deglaze the pan with a splash of water.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes and hot sauce; simmer for a few minutes.
Pasta Cooking
- Cook the penne pasta in boiling salted water until al dente, then drain.
Combining Ingredients
- Combine the cooked pasta with the chicken sauce mixture in an oven-proof dish.
Making the Creamy Sauce
- In a separate pan, mix cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, dried dill, and chicken stock until melted.
- Thicken the sauce with a cornstarch slurry and bring to the desired consistency.
- Spread the creamy sauce over the pasta mixture.
Baking
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella on top of the dish.
- Bake for about 20 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
- Garnish with sliced spring onions and serve hot.
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