The Ultimate Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe Inspired by Buffalo Wild Wings

If you’ve ever experienced the sheer satisfaction of digging into a creamy, flavorful bowl of Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, you know exactly how irresistible it can be. The smooth, garlicky sauce coated on tender chicken, paired with perfectly cooked pasta, is the ultimate comfort food. But what if you could bring this crave-worthy dish into your own kitchen and enjoy it anytime you want?

Good news—you absolutely can! In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to recreate this restaurant favorite at home, from the key ingredients to expert tips. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner for yourself or looking to impress guests, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A Flavor Experience Like No Other

Imagine this: a creamy garlic parmesan sauce that clings to every bite of pasta, rich and indulgent, but balanced with just the right amount of heat. Add in succulent chicken that’s tender and juicy, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs to bring it all together. Now, you’re getting a sense of what the Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta offers. But when you make it at home, you get full control over the ingredients, the spice level, and the portion sizes—so you can customize the dish just the way you love it.

Not only does this recipe recreate the magic of Buffalo Wild Wings, but it also allows you to enjoy a more affordable and fresher version of the dish, made right in your kitchen.

A Comfort Food Staple

One of the best parts about this dish is its versatility. Whether you’re craving something rich and creamy, or you’re just looking to switch up your usual pasta routine, garlic parmesan chicken pasta is the perfect choice. The flavors are bold yet comforting, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights, special family dinners, or even meal prepping for the week ahead.

Key Ingredients for Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Before you start cooking, it’s essential to gather all the ingredients you need to ensure the best results. Here’s what you’ll need for the Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta:

The Main Ingredients

• Chicken Breasts or Thighs – Boneless, skinless chicken is the best choice for this recipe. Breasts are leaner, but thighs can add extra flavor and moisture if you prefer them.
• Pasta – Penne or fettuccine works best here, but feel free to use your favorite type of pasta. Choose one that can hold the creamy sauce well.
• Fresh Garlic – The star of the sauce! Freshly minced or crushed garlic will provide the best flavor.
• Heavy Cream – For a rich, velvety sauce that will coat the chicken and pasta beautifully.
• Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated parmesan is ideal for maximum flavor. It’s sharper and more aromatic than pre-grated versions.
• Olive Oil and Butter – These will help cook the chicken and create a rich, flavorful base for your sauce.
• Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – If you like a bit of heat, add crushed red pepper flakes. They’ll give the dish a slight kick that enhances the garlic and parmesan.
• Fresh Parsley – A sprinkle of parsley adds freshness and a pop of color to finish the dish.

Ingredient Table

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Now that you’ve gathered everything you need, let’s walk through the steps to make your Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, and a bit of garlic powder. This simple seasoning mix will complement the rich flavors of the sauce later.

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the seasoned chicken breasts (or thighs) and cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and fully cooked.
3. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta of your choice and cook it according to the package instructions. Aim for an al dente texture, as the pasta will continue cooking slightly when combined with the sauce.

• Drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving a little pasta water for later if needed to adjust the sauce consistency.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

The heart of this dish is the creamy garlic parmesan sauce. Here’s how to get it just right:

1. In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté it for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally.
4. Once the cream starts to thicken, add the parmesan cheese and stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes to taste. Let the sauce simmer for another 2-3 minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Now it’s time to bring it all together:

1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the garlic parmesan sauce, tossing to coat the noodles thoroughly.
2. Slice the cooked chicken and add it to the pasta, stirring gently to incorporate.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of parmesan cheese, if desired.

Serve your Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta hot, and enjoy the creamy, savory goodness in every bite!

Expert Tips to Elevate Your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

To take your garlic parmesan chicken pasta to the next level, here are a few expert tips that will help you perfect the dish:

1. Add Extra Veggies

Want to add some color and nutrition? Toss in some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or even roasted tomatoes. These veggies not only enhance the dish visually but also add extra flavor and texture.

2. Marinate the Chicken

For even juicier chicken, consider marinating it before cooking. A simple marinade of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and herbs will infuse the chicken with flavor and make it extra tender.

3. Customize the Spice Level

If you love a bit of spice, don’t be afraid to add more crushed red pepper flakes or drizzle in some Buffalo sauce for that extra heat and tang.

4. Use Fresh Parmesan

While pre-grated parmesan works in a pinch, freshly grated parmesan creates a creamier and more flavorful sauce. For the best results, always opt for freshly grated cheese.

How to Make Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Ahead of Time

If you want to meal prep or make this dish ahead of time, you can still enjoy the same great flavors with a few adjustments.

Make-Ahead Tips

• Cook the Chicken & Pasta Separately: You can cook the chicken and pasta in advance. Just keep them in separate containers in the fridge, and when you’re ready to eat, simply heat the pasta in the sauce and reheat the chicken.
• Store the Sauce: You can make the garlic parmesan sauce ahead of time too. It can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. If it thickens too much, just add a splash of cream or milk when reheating.
• Freezing: While it’s best to store the pasta and sauce separately if you plan to freeze them, you can freeze both for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat thoroughly before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs are a fantastic option for this dish as they tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time since thighs take a bit longer to cook than breasts.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If your sauce is too thin, simply let it simmer longer to reduce. You can also add an extra handful of parmesan cheese to thicken it up.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap the chicken for grilled vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers, or use tofu for a vegetarian alternative.

Conclusion

Recreating Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta at home is easier than you think, and the results are absolutely worth it. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for a group, this recipe delivers on flavor, texture, and satisfaction. With just a few simple ingredients and a few expert tips, you can enjoy this restaurant-quality dish anytime you like.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, follow these easy steps, and indulge in the creamy, garlicky goodness of this dish. Your taste buds (and anyone you serve it to) will thank you!

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