Ever wondered how Buffalo Wild Wings makes their Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta so popular? Find out how to make this creamy, savory dish at home. This guide will show you how to mix tender chicken, al dente pasta, and that special garlicky Parmesan sauce. It’s perfect for any night or gathering, and you’ll get the flavors that fans love.
Key Takeaways
- Learn to replicate Buffalo Wild Wings’ garlic parmesan chicken pasta with precise ingredients and steps.
- Adapt the dish for dietary needs like gluten-free or lighter options without sacrificing taste.
- Use common kitchen tools—no specialty equipment required.
- Store leftovers safely and reheat for optimal flavor.
- Pair the pasta with sides and drinks that enhance its bold flavors.
Introduction to Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Imagine a dish where buttery garlic, melted parmesan, and crispy chicken come together in one bowl. Buffalo Wild Wings parmesan garlic pasta is exactly that. It’s a favorite because it combines great restaurant flavors with the ease of home cooking.
What Makes This Dish So Popular
- Flavor Fusion: The sauce’s garlic taste pairs well with creamy parmesan, making it irresistible.
- Texture Contrast: The dish has crispy chicken, firm pasta, and smooth sauce, pleasing many tastes at once.
- Comfort Food Appeal: Its rich, savory flavor is perfect for both casual and special meals.
Why Cook It at Home
Cooking this dish at home gives you control. You can:
- Change the spice or salt to your taste.
- Choose fresh chicken and parmesan for better flavor.
- Make it in the amount you want, for leftovers or special diets.
Overview of Taste and Texture
Each part of the dish adds to its unique taste:
| Element | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Pasta | Crispy edges meet a chewy core, coated in a garlic-infused cheese sauce. |
| Chicken | Breaded chicken pieces offer a crispy exterior and juicy interior. |
| Sauce | A velvety mix of roasted garlic, grated parmesan, and herbs like parsley. |
This dish is both filling and indulgent. It’s great for weeknight dinners or game-day parties.
The History Behind Buffalo Wild Wings’ Signature Pasta Dishes
Buffalo Wild Wings started as a sports bar known for its spicy chicken wings. In the early 2000s, they added more to their menu. This included dishes like Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, which mixed comfort with bold tastes.
The Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta became a hit. It combined creamy Parmesan sauce, savory chicken, and pasta. It even had a hint of the chain’s famous wing sauces, keeping fans happy.
Since its debut, this dish has been a staple on menus everywhere. It shows how Buffalo Wild Wings stays true to its roots while trying new things. Knowing this history helps you make it at home with the right ingredients.
Essential Ingredients for Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
To make buffalo wild wings garlic parmesan chicken pasta at home, you need the right ingredients. Each part is important for that creamy, savory taste.
The Pasta Base
Choose fettuccine or penne as your pasta. These shapes hold onto the sauce well. Go for durum wheat pasta for a firm texture.
Chicken Selection and Preparation
Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Cut them into small pieces for even cooking. Remove excess fat to keep the dish creamy.
Garlic Parmesan Sauce Components
The sauce needs fresh garlic, grated parmesan, heavy cream, and unsalted butter. Add dried parsley and black pepper for more flavor. Use block parmesan for the best taste.
- Garlic: Mince 3-4 cloves for a mild kick without bitterness.
- Cream: Use heavy cream for richness; substitutes like half-and-half thin the sauce.
- Herbs: Fresh parsley adds brightness—chop finely before tossing with the final dish.
Additional Flavor Enhancers
Add optional ingredients like white wine or red pepper flakes for heat. Lemon zest brightens the sauce, and chicken broth can adjust creaminess. Always taste as you go to balance flavors.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
To make buffalo wild wings pasta at home, you need some essential tools. First, get a big pasta pot with a tight lid. This helps keep pasta just right and prevents it from sticking together. Next, use a colander to drain the pasta easily.
A heavy skillet or sauté pan is best for cooking chicken and making the garlic Parmesan sauce. It ensures everything cooks evenly.
- Pot and colander: Essential for cooking pasta and draining without breaking strands.
- Skillet or sauté pan: Ideal for browning chicken and simmering sauce without hot spots.
- Chef’s knife and cutting board: For chopping veggies and prepping chicken quickly.
- Grater or microplane: Perfect for freshly grating Parmesan into fine shreds for rich flavor.
- Wooden spoon and tongs: Use spoons for stirring sauce and tongs to toss pasta with cooked chicken.
Even if you don’t have all the fancy tools, you can still make great buffalo wild wings pasta. A regular frying pan can replace the skillet, and a box grater works like a microplane. Make sure all your tools are ready before you start cooking.
Having the right equipment makes a big difference. It keeps the pasta saucy, the chicken juicy, and the flavors of garlic Parmesan just right. With a few key items, your homemade version of this buffalo wild wings pasta will taste just like the restaurant’s.
Preparation Time and Cooking Overview
Learning to make Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is all about timing. It takes 45 to 60 minutes, broken down into steps. You’ll spend 15–20 minutes prepping, 10–12 minutes searing the chicken, and 10–15 minutes making the garlic-herb sauce. Boiling pasta takes 8–10 minutes, and assembling the dish just 5 minutes.
Time Management Tips
- Start by prepping ingredients: Chop veggies, measure spices, and season the chicken before cooking.
- Cook in stages: Simmer the sauce while the chicken rests to avoid doing too much at once.
- Use timers: Keep track of pasta boiling and sauce simmering to avoid overcooking.
Make-Ahead Options
Here are ways to save time:
- Marinate chicken up to 24 hours in advance for more flavor.
- Make the garlic Parmesan sauce ahead and refrigerate it for up to 2 days.
- Cook pasta the day before, rinse it with cold water, and store it in a sealed container.
Adjust this Buffalo Wild Wings recipe to fit your schedule. Whether it’s a weeknight or a weekend, focus on efficiency without losing the dish’s creamy, savory flavor.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Make the buffalo wild wings parmesan garlic pasta at home with these easy steps. Follow each step carefully to get the restaurant’s taste and texture right.
Preparing the Chicken
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika. Let it sit for 10 minutes to soak up flavors.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil, then sear chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Rest it on a plate while you prepare the sauce.
Creating the Perfect Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Heat butter in the same skillet. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant but not browned (30 seconds-1 minute). Overcooking leads to bitterness). Add heavy cream and simmer until slightly thickened. Gradually whisk in grated Parmesan, stirring constantly until smooth. Add a splash of pasta water if needed to adjust consistency.
Cooking Your Pasta to Perfection
- Boil water with 1-2 tablespoons of salt. Cook pasta until al dente (check package time minus 1-2 minutes for firmness).
- Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining. This liquid will help blend flavors when combining elements.
Combining All Elements
Toss cooked pasta directly into the sauce. Stir gently to coat evenly. Slice the rested chicken and layer it over the pasta-sauce mixture. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve immediately to preserve crispness and heat.
Pro tip: If sauce clumps, stir in reserved pasta water ¼ cup at a time. Overcooked pasta? Add a splash of sauce and toss vigorously.
Slow Cooker Variation: Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Crock Pot Method
Make your kitchen routine easier with the buffalo wild wings garlic parmesan chicken pasta crock pot method. This method uses a slow cooker to make meal prep simple. It keeps the dish’s flavors while being easy on your schedule.
- Layer raw chicken first, then seasonings, and pour sauce ingredients over top.
- Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
- Add cooked pasta at the end or keep it warm separately to prevent sogginess.
- Stir in cream cheese or parmesan last to avoid separation.
| Aspect | Stovetop Method | Crock Pot Method |
|---|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15-20 minutes | 10 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 25-30 minutes | 4-6 hours (low) or 2-3 (high) |
| Sauce Handling | Constant stirring required | No stirring needed |
| Pasta Integration | Cooked and mixed at the end | Add pre-cooked pasta post-cook |
For the best bww crockpot chicken texture, shred or cube chicken into 1-inch pieces before cooking. To thicken sauce, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with water and stir in during the last 30 minutes. This variation is great for meal prep; portion leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Recipe Modifications and Dietary Alternatives
Make your buffalo wild wings pasta fit your diet while keeping its great taste. These tweaks let everyone enjoy it without losing flavor.
Gluten-Free Options
- Try Barilla gluten-free penne or DeLallo corn pasta instead of regular pasta.
- Make sure all sauces and cheeses are gluten-free to avoid contamination.
Lower Calorie Version
- Reduce calories by using half-and-half or 2% milk instead of heavy cream.
- Use less-fat Parmesan and bake chicken instead of frying it in butter.
Vegetarian Adaptation
- Replace chicken with roasted mushrooms or Beyond Meat crumbles in the garlic Parmesan sauce.
- Add spinach or zucchini to increase fiber and nutrients, keeping it creamy.
| Modification | Substitution | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Gluten-Free | Rice/corn pasta | Choose brands labeled “certified gluten-free” |
| Lower Calorie | Low-fat milk + Greek yogurt | Reduce butter by 50% without losing richness |
| Vegetarian | Mushrooms/Beyond Meat | Sauté veggies longer to absorb sauce flavors |
Keep the bold garlic and Parmesan flavor in all versions. This way, you keep the buffalo wild wings pasta taste. Adjust cooking times for changes like tofu or lentils.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Turn your homemade buffalo wild wings garlic parmesan chicken pasta into a full meal. Use these expert pairings to balance its rich flavors. Follow these simple guidelines:
Side Dishes That Complement This Pasta
- Light salads: Mix romaine with lemon vinaigrette to cut through creaminess.
- Roasted vegetables: Try zucchini or asparagus with garlic and olive oil.
- Bread options: Serve warm garlic bread or BWW-style breadsticks for dipping.
Beverage Recommendations
Pair your pasta with drinks that highlight its bold flavors:
| Beverage Type | Top Picks | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| White wine | Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc | Crisp acidity balances creamy sauce |
| Craft beer | IPA, Witbier | Hoppy notes contrast with savory garlic |
| Non-alcoholic | Sparkling water with lime, Italian soda | Refreshingly light finish |
Enhance presentation with parsley or grated Parmesan. Adjust portion sizes: 1 cup pasta + 4 oz chicken per serving for main meals. Or, serve smaller portions for parties. These pairings make your homemade dish as good as BWW’s without overwhelming the garlic parmesan chicken pasta.
Nutritional Information and Health Considerations
Knowing the buffalo wild wings parmesan garlic pasta nutrition helps you enjoy it without harming your health. A typical homemade serving has 600–700 calories. It includes 30–35g fat, 35–40g protein, and 60–70g carbs. The sodium content is 800–1,000mg, mainly from cheese and sauce.
| Nutrient | Restaurant Version | Homemade Version |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 850+ | 600–700 |
| Sodium | 1,500mg | 800–1,000mg |
| Fiber | 1–2g | 2–4g (with added veggies) |
Restaurant buffalo wild wings parmesan garlic pasta often uses pre-made sauces and high-sodium cheeses. Making it at home lets you choose what goes in. To cut down on fat, use low-fat cheese or mix in zucchini noodles. Adding steamed broccoli or spinach increases fiber and vitamins.
- Use olive oil instead of butter for sautéing garlic.
- Trim sodium by choosing low-sodium broth in the sauce.
- Pair with a side salad for a balanced meal.
“Enjoy this dish as an occasional treat. Small adjustments keep it enjoyable without overindulging,” says registered dietitian Sarah Thompson.
It’s important to control portions—stick to 1 cup of pasta per serving. Choose skinless chicken breast to reduce saturated fat. The garlic parmesan flavors are still great with less cheese. Keep track of what you’re eating to meet your dietary needs.
Storage and Reheating Tips for Leftovers
Keep your Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta fresh with these tips. Whether you cooked it in a slow cooker or on the stovetop, these steps will help. Your bww crockpot chicken leftovers will stay tasty and fresh.
Refrigeration Guidelines
Cool your dish fast after cooking. Put it in an airtight container and refrigerate within 2 hours. You can keep leftovers for 3-4 days. If they smell bad or look off, throw them away.
Freezing Instructions
- Put it in freezer-safe containers, leaving room for expansion.
- Label with dates and store for up to 2 months. Add broth to keep it moist.
- Wrap it tightly to avoid freezer burn.
Best Reheating Methods
Reheat your meal with these methods:
- Stovetop: Heat it gently in a saucepan with some broth.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring between each.
- Oven: Bake at 350°F covered for 15-20 minutes.
For bww crockpot chicken leftovers, warm them on low in the slow cooker for 1-2 hours.
Conclusion
Making buffalo wild wings garlic parmesan chicken pasta at home is a treat. You get to enjoy top-notch flavors with your own special touch. It’s all about getting the pasta just right, making a rich garlic parmesan sauce, and cooking the chicken perfectly.
This recipe is super flexible. You can use gluten-free pasta or even make it in a slow cooker. It’s perfect for any dietary needs or kitchen setup.
This dish is a real showstopper, whether it’s for a main course or a cozy treat. It’s sure to impress with its taste and look. And don’t forget to store leftovers right to reheat them later for easy meals.
Sharing this pasta with friends and family is a great way to enjoy its creamy, savory goodness. With this guide, you’re all set to make this dish at home. It proves that homemade can be just as good as what you get at a restaurant.
FAQ
What pasta is best for the Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
Fettuccine or penne pasta works great. They soak up the creamy garlic parmesan sauce well. This gives the best taste and texture.
Can I use a slow cooker for the Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
Yes, you can make it in a crock pot. Just adjust the liquid and layer the ingredients right. Add pasta at the end to keep it from getting mushy.
How can I make a gluten-free version of this dish?
Use gluten-free pasta like rice or corn pasta. Make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free, especially packaged ones.
What if I want to make a vegetarian adaptation of the recipe?
Replace chicken with roasted cauliflower or mushrooms. Or use plant-based chicken substitutes to keep the flavor.
How do I properly store leftovers from Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
Keep leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for 3-4 days. Freeze it for 1-2 months if you need to. Just make sure it’s well-packaged to avoid freezer burn.
What are some side dishes that pair well with this pasta?
Simple green salads, roasted veggies, or garlic bread are great. They balance out the pasta’s richness.
How can I ensure my sauce doesn’t separate during reheating?
Add a bit of milk or broth to the sauce when reheating. Stir often over low heat to keep it creamy.
What is the cooking time for the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
It takes about 45-60 minutes to cook. This includes time for the chicken, sauce, and pasta.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, prep parts like cutting the chicken or making the sauce ahead. It makes cooking easier later.
What modifications can I make for fewer calories?
Use half-and-half or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream. Cut down on butter and choose lean chicken cooking methods.
