If you’re a fan of Buffalo Wild Wings and crave a comforting pasta dish, you’re in for a treat!
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta combines the bold flavors of Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce with tender chicken and creamy pasta, creating a crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a family dinner.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to make this mouthwatering dish, explore tips to enhance the recipe, and provide insights into its appeal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is not just another pasta dish—it’s an elevated combination of creamy, cheesy goodness with a hint of garlic and parmesan tanginess.
The use of Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce as the star ingredient ensures a restaurant-quality flavor in every bite.
Whether you’re hosting guests or looking for a quick, satisfying meal, this pasta delivers every time.
Key Features:
- Bold Flavors: Infused with Buffalo Wild Wings’ signature Garlic Parmesan Sauce.
- Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
- Easy Preparation: A slow cooker takes the hassle out of cooking.
- Versatile: Can be customized with your favorite pasta or protein.
Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Before diving into the cooking process, gather these ingredients for a seamless experience:
- Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce: 1 (12 oz) bottle. This is the flavor powerhouse of the dish.
- Chicken: 2–3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
- Milk: 1 cup, for added creaminess.
- Cream Cheese: 8 oz, creating a luscious, velvety sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup shredded, for a cheesy boost.
- Pasta: 1 (16 oz) box. Choose your favorite shape, such as penne, fettuccine, or rotini.
- Optional Additions: Fresh parsley for garnish or crushed red pepper for a hint of heat.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create a comforting and flavorful Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta:
1. Prepare the Slow Cooker
Brush the bottom of your slow cooker with olive oil, canola oil, or use a nonstick cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
2. Add Chicken and Sauce
Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Pour the Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce over the chicken, followed by the milk. This combination infuses the chicken with bold and creamy flavors as it cooks.
3. Add Cream Cheese
Place the block of cream cheese on top of the chicken. This will melt down during cooking, blending with the sauce to create a rich, creamy base.
4. Cook the Chicken
Cover the slow cooker and cook:
- On High for 4 hours.
- On Low for 5–6 hours. This low-and-slow cooking method ensures the chicken becomes tender and infused with flavor.
5. Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts and shred them using two forks. The slow cooking process makes shredding effortless.
6. Combine the Ingredients
Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker. Stir in half of the shredded Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce for extra cheesiness.
7. Cook the Pasta
Prepare the pasta according to the package instructions, cooking it al dente. Drain and add the cooked pasta to the slow cooker. Mix well to coat every piece of pasta in the creamy garlic parmesan sauce.
8. Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the pasta to serving plates, garnishing with the remaining Parmesan cheese and optional parsley. Pair it with garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
To make the most of this recipe, consider these tips:
Choose High-Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh Parmesan cheese and good-quality pasta for the best results.
Experiment with Pasta Types: While traditional pasta shapes like penne and fettuccine work well, consider using gnocchi or ravioli for a twist.
Add Vegetables: Incorporate spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli for added nutrition and flavor.
Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to reach your desired texture.
Why Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce?
Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce stands out for its creamy texture, garlicky aroma, and savory parmesan kick. Its versatility makes it an excellent choice for more than just wings—it transforms into a pasta sauce effortlessly. The bold yet balanced flavor ensures that this dish appeals to a wide audience, including those who enjoy mildly spiced meals.
Serving and Storage
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with garlic bread or a Caesar salad to complement the dish’s richness.
- Serve with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, for a refreshing contrast.
Storage Tips
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Gently warm in a saucepan or microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to maintain the sauce’s creaminess.
Freeze: While the dish can be frozen, the texture of the cream cheese may change slightly. To freeze, transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.