Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the kind of comfort food you didn’t know you needed until you’re two bites in and wondering how it disappeared so fast. Creamy, cheesy, and with just enough garlicky kick to keep things interesting, this dish is like your favorite restaurant pasta…but made right in your cozy kitchen in about 30 minutes.
Whether you’re trying to impress a crowd (or just keep your family from ordering takeout for the third time this week), this pasta pulls through. The Buffalo Wild Wings garlic Parmesan sauce does the heavy lifting, giving that signature bold flavor, while the creamy base and juicy chicken bring it all together. If you’re a fan of garlic, cheese, and easy weeknight wins, then this pasta is basically your new best friend. Let’s dive in.
Table of Contents
What is Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a rich, creamy, flavor-packed pasta dish that draws inspiration from the fan-favorite garlic Parmesan wing sauce at BWW. The sauce itself is a garlicky, cheesy, slightly tangy blend that works surprisingly well beyond wings—especially on pasta. Add in some seasoned, seared chicken breast and a swirl of heavy cream, and you’ve got a pasta dish that feels restaurant-worthy but totally doable on a weeknight.
Typically made with penne or fettuccine, the pasta soaks up all that luscious sauce, while the chicken adds a hearty, protein-rich bite. It’s not a light dish—this is full-on comfort mode—but it’s one that earns its place in your regular dinner rotation. Think of it as the best parts of wing night and pasta night had a delicious little baby.
Reasons to Try Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
First and foremost—flavor. The Buffalo Wild Wings garlic Parmesan sauce brings a bold, zesty kick to your average creamy pasta, and it’s a flavor combo that hits all the right notes: salty, cheesy, garlicky, and just a hint of spice. Second, this is weeknight dinner gold. We’re talking one pan for the sauce and chicken, plus one pot for the pasta. It’s minimal cleanup, maximum payoff. Third—versatility.
Got picky eaters? Skip the red pepper flakes. Want to sneak in veggies? Toss in some spinach or roasted broccoli. You can even make it a little lighter by swapping heavy cream for half-and-half. And finally, it’s just fun. Recreating a restaurant-style dish at home makes dinner feel like an occasion. If you’ve ever had the garlic Parmesan wings at BWW and wished you could turn that into a full meal, this pasta is your dream come true.
Ingredients Needed to Make Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into strips or cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan sauce (or similar substitute)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, but delicious)
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz penne or fettuccine pasta, cooked according to package instructions
- 1/4 cup pasta cooking water (reserved for thinning the sauce if needed)
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped parsley
- Extra Parmesan
Instructions to Make Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Making Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta at home might sound like something you’d need a culinary degree for, but trust me—this is an approachable, flavorful dish that anyone can master with a little guidance. Below is your detailed step by step walkthrough to creating this creamy, garlicky dream dinner from start to finish. Let’s get cooking!
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Start by grabbing your chicken breast—about 1 pound—and slicing it into evenly sized strips or cubes. This helps it cook faster and more uniformly. Pat it dry with a paper towel to help it sear better (yes, it matters). Now sprinkle on your seasoning: 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of paprika, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering (but not smoking), carefully add the chicken. Let it cook undisturbed for about 5–6 minutes per side. This is key to building a golden, flavorful crust. Once your chicken is cooked through and has a nice golden edge, remove it from the pan and set it aside on a plate. Keep those tasty brown bits in the skillet—they’re flavor gold for the sauce.
Want tips on how to get your chicken perfectly juicy every time? Check out our Lemon Butter Chicken for another quick, delicious option.
Step 2: Build the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Now comes the part where your kitchen starts smelling like a five-star restaurant. Using the same skillet (yes, keep that goodness), lower the heat slightly and melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Toss in 3 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes. Stir constantly to avoid burning—burnt garlic is nobody’s friend.
Once the garlic is fragrant (you’ll know), pour in 1 cup of Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan sauce and 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir until the mixture is combined and just starting to bubble. Lower the heat to a simmer, then sprinkle in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts smoothly into the sauce. If you like a little heat, now’s the time to add ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes.
Let the sauce simmer gently for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally. It should thicken slightly and coat the back of your spoon. For dairy-lightening tips or ingredient swaps, you can explore our guide to simple ingredient substitutions, especially helpful if you’re avoiding heavy cream.
Step 3: Cook and Combine the Pasta
While your sauce is simmering, make sure your pasta is ready. Cook 12 oz of penne or fettuccine according to the package directions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Don’t forget to reserve about ¼ cup of the pasta water before draining—it’s liquid gold for adjusting sauce texture.
Add the drained pasta straight into the skillet with your sauce. Use tongs or a wooden spoon to gently toss everything together so every noodle is coated in that rich, garlicky goodness. If the sauce feels too thick or sticky, slowly add in the reserved pasta water until it’s silky and smooth. This step by step adjustment gives you full control over consistency.
Want more pasta night inspo? Don’t miss our Honey Pepper Chicken Pasta for a sweet and spicy twist!
Step 4: Add the Chicken Back In
Now bring it all together. Take your cooked chicken and slice it if needed, then add it back into the skillet with the pasta and sauce. Stir everything gently to combine and let it all heat through for 2–3 minutes. This is where the flavors really meld. The chicken will absorb some of the sauce, and the pasta will soak up even more of those creamy, garlicky notes.
Step 5: Plate and Garnish
Time to serve! Grab your favorite bowls or plates and dish up the pasta while it’s piping hot. Sprinkle with extra grated Parmesan (because more cheese is always the right move) and a handful of chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
If you’re a fan of bold flavors, a drizzle of hot sauce or an extra pinch of red pepper flakes on top can really turn things up a notch.
Bonus Tips:
- For a step by step low-carb alternative, you could swap out the pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
- Want to meal-prep this? Make the sauce and chicken ahead of time and just cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to eat.
- Feel like changing up the protein? Shrimp or rotisserie chicken work well too—just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Need more easy, satisfying recipes like this? You’ll love our creamy Chicken Marsala Orzo and Slow Cooker Butter Chicken for other comforting dinner options that don’t take all night to make.
This step by step recipe not only delivers big on flavor, but also on simplicity, making it a reliable choice for weeknights, weekend cravings, or when you just want something delicious without overthinking dinner.
What to Serve with Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
This pasta is a full-on comfort meal, but it plays well with sides that add a bit of freshness or crunch. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps balance the richness—think arugula, cherry tomatoes, and maybe some shaved Parmesan. Garlic bread or a warm baguette is perfect for mopping up every last drop of sauce (and let’s be real, you’ll want to). If you’re feeling fancy, try roasting some broccoli or asparagus in the oven with a little olive oil and lemon—it’ll round out the meal without stealing the spotlight. And if you’re feeding a crowd? A chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon makes it feel like a dinner party, even on a Tuesday.
Key Tips for Making Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Don’t overcook the chicken. You want juicy bites, not dry chew toys.
- Use fresh garlic. It makes a difference, especially in a dish where garlic is front and center.
- Save that pasta water. It’s your creamy sauce insurance policy.
- Add veggies if you like. Spinach, peas, or roasted bell peppers would all be amazing here.
- Taste as you go. The garlic Parmesan sauce already has salt, so don’t go overboard early.
- Let it rest. A few minutes off the heat lets the sauce thicken naturally and cling to every noodle.
Storage and Reheating Tips for Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Store the pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to loosen things up. The microwave works too, but do it in short bursts and stir between to keep the sauce from separating. This dish doesn’t freeze super well because of the cream, so aim to enjoy it fresh or within a couple of days. Honestly, it’s so good, leftovers rarely last that long.
FAQs
Can I use a different kind of pasta?
Absolutely! Penne and fettuccine work great, but rotini, rigatoni, or even spaghetti will do just fine.
Is there a substitute for the BWW Garlic Parmesan sauce?
Yes—look for garlic Parmesan wing sauce at most grocery stores, or mix garlic, Parmesan, mayo, and a bit of vinegar for a quick DIY version.
Can I make it spicier?
You bet. Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to kick it up.
Can I use precooked chicken?
Sure, just warm it in the sauce before serving. Rotisserie chicken is a solid shortcut.
Is this dish keto-friendly?
Not as written, but you could sub the pasta for zoodles or a low-carb alternative and tweak the sauce slightly.
Final Thoughts
Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the ultimate cozy-meets-bold dinner that you didn’t know you needed. With its creamy garlic-infused sauce, juicy seasoned chicken, and crave-worthy pasta base, this dish turns your average weeknight meal into a restaurant-style treat. It’s quick enough for Tuesday, indulgent enough for date night, and flexible enough for picky eaters or adventurous ones alike. Ready to try more chicken pasta favorites? You’ll love our Chicken Marsala Orzo and Sweet and Spicy Thai Chicken too. So grab a fork and get ready to fall in love with your new go-to pasta.
Visit our Pinterest for regular slow cooker recipe updates, or join our Facebook discussions where cooking fans exchange their favorite hearty meal ideas.
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Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta in 30 Minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A creamy, flavorful pasta dish inspired by Buffalo Wild Wings, combining tender chicken, rich garlic Parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. This quick and satisfying recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or an indulgent weekend treat!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into strips or cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan sauce (or similar)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz penne or fettuccine pasta, cooked according to package instructions
- 1/4 cup pasta cooking water (reserved)
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped parsley
- Extra grated Parmesan
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Season chicken with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Sear chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
5. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
6. Stir in Garlic Parmesan sauce, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese.
7. Simmer for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens slightly.
8. Add cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
9. Stir in reserved pasta water gradually until desired sauce consistency is reached.
10. Slice cooked chicken and add to the skillet.
11. Toss everything together and heat through for 2–3 minutes.
12. Serve pasta on plates and garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan. Enjoy immediately!
Notes
If you prefer a spicier dish, add more red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce.
Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter option.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 620 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 890 mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 160 mg
