Name: Healthy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups penne pasta, cooked; 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie recommended); 1/2 cup cottage cheese, blended until smooth (optional but recommended); 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1 packet ranch seasoning mix; 1/3 cup Frank’s hot sauce; 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup green onions, sliced

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 8 reviews

If you love the vibrant kick of buffalo chicken but crave a comforting pasta dish with a healthier twist, then this Healthy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe will become your new favorite weeknight winner. This creamy, cheesy bake combines tender pasta, shredded rotisserie chicken, and just the right amount of spicy Frank’s hot sauce, balanced perfectly with Greek yogurt and blended cottage cheese to keep it light yet satisfyingly rich. What’s even better is how it all comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an effortless, crowd-pleasing dish that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several glass bowls with different ingredients placed on a white marbled surface. The largest bowl at the bottom contains cooked penne pasta with a pale yellow color. Above and to the right is a smaller bowl filled with shredded chicken in white and light brown tones. Surrounding these two main bowls are smaller glass bowls with various ingredients: finely shredded orange cheese, white shredded cheese, a white powder likely to be flour, a creamy white sauce, another similar creamy white ingredient, a small bowl of green chopped herbs, and a small bowl of red sauce. The overall scene is clean and neatly arranged, ready for cooking. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting your hands on just a handful of simple ingredients is all it takes to create this tasty pasta bake. Each element plays a vital role, from the creamy texture of the cottage cheese and Greek yogurt to the zesty punch of the buffalo sauce, ensuring every bite dances with flavor and color.

4 cups penne pasta cooked: Choose penne for its perfect bite and ability to hold onto the sauce deliciously.
2 cups shredded cooked chicken: Rotisserie chicken works wonders here, saving you time without sacrificing taste.
1/2 cup cottage cheese blended: Blending smooths it out, adding creamy body with extra protein and less fat.
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt: Adds tanginess and creaminess while keeping the dish lighter than heavy cream.
1 packet ranch seasoning mix: Infuses that classic ranch flavor that pairs so well with buffalo heat.
1/3 cup Frank’s hot sauce: The signature spicy kick that gives this bake its bold buffalo flair.
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for gooey, stretchy goodness on every forkful.
1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese: Brings a depth of savory flavor and a bit of tang.
1/4 cup green onions: Fresh and crisp, perfect for garnishing and adding a pop of color.

How to Make Healthy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees, and grease a 9 x 13 casserole dish to prevent sticking. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Meanwhile, blend the cottage cheese until smooth for a creamy texture that will perfectly bind your dish.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a large bowl, whisk together the blended cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, ranch seasoning, and Frank’s hot sauce. Then fold in half of the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses – this sauce will coat your pasta and chicken with rich, creamy flavor and just the right buffalo bite.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Chicken

Add the cooked pasta and shredded chicken to the sauce mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly to ensure each piece is well-coated, creating a harmonious blend of flavors ready to be baked.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Pour the saucy pasta mixture into your prepared casserole dish and sprinkle the remaining cheeses evenly on top. Pop it into the oven and bake for about 15 minutes or until the cheese melts and bubbles beautifully, creating that irresistible golden crust.

Step 5: Add Fresh Garnish

Once out of the oven, sprinkle the chopped green onions over the top to add a fresh, peppery crunch that complements the spicy, creamy pasta bake perfectly.

How to Serve Healthy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

A white plate holds a dish with two main layers. The bottom layer shows penne pasta coated in creamy, light orange sauce with a smooth texture. The top layer is shredded chicken, placed on one side of the pasta, showing white and light brown pieces. Small green onion slices are scattered over the dish, adding a touch of bright green color. The plate sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Beyond the green onions, feel free to add a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for added creaminess and a pop of color that brightens each serving.

Side Dishes

This hearty bake pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette or some steamed broccoli to keep the meal balanced and full of bright, fresh flavors to contrast the richness of the pasta.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve individual portions in mini casserole dishes or ramekins, topping each with a little extra cheese and broiling briefly for a bubbly finish. It also makes a fantastic filling for stuffed bell peppers, turning your Healthy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe into a colorful, portable meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, they’ll stay fresh for up to three days, making perfect next-day lunches or quick dinners.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully! Portion it out into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to three months. For best results, freeze before baking, then bake from frozen, adding extra baking time to ensure it heats through evenly.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly again, or use a microwave for a quicker option, stirring halfway to keep the pasta bake creamy and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! You can grill, bake, or poach chicken breasts and shred them yourself. Just make sure the chicken is fully cooked before mixing into the pasta bake.

Is it okay to skip blending the cottage cheese?

Yes, skipping the blend will still work fine; however, blending it creates a smoother, creamier texture that elevates the dish’s overall mouthfeel.

Can I make this pasta bake dairy-free?

While this recipe relies on cheese and yogurt for its creamy texture, you can experiment with dairy-free alternatives like coconut yogurt and vegan cheeses to suit dietary needs.

How spicy is this Healthy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe?

The heat level is moderate, perfect for those who enjoy buffalo’s signature kick without overwhelming spice. Adjust Frank’s hot sauce to taste for milder or spicier results.

What pasta works best for this recipe?

Penne is ideal because its tubular shape holds the sauce well, but rigatoni, rotini, or even elbow macaroni are great alternatives if you want to switch it up.

Final Thoughts

This Healthy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe is a perfect blend of comfort and nutrition that will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation. Its ease, flavor, and satisfying textures will have everyone asking for seconds, and it’s just waiting for you to give it a try tonight. Trust me, this one’s a keeper!