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Buffalo Wild wings garlic Parmesan pasta

Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Garlic Parmesan pasta inspired by Buffalo Wild Wings is one of those meals that feels indulgent without trying too hard.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American, Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 620 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Sharp Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
  • Cheese grater
  • Colander
  • Tongs

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta

  • 12 oz fettuccine or penne
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1½ pounds), sliced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1½ cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  • Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt.
  • Bring it to a rolling boil over high heat.
  • Add the fettuccine (or pasta of choice) and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  • Stir occasionally so it doesn’t stick together.
  • Before draining, scoop out about ½ cup of pasta water and set it aside. Then drain the pasta in a colander and lightly toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
  • Pro Tip: Slightly undercook the pasta by about 30–45 seconds. It will finish cooking in the sauce and absorb even more flavor.

Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken

  • Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
  • Slice into even strips or bite-sized pieces for consistent cooking.
  • Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot:
  • Add the chicken in a single layer.
  • Let it cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes to develop a golden crust.
  • Flip and cook another 3–4 minutes until fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C).
  • Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
  • Pro Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if needed. Crowding causes steaming instead of browning, and that golden sear is what gives this dish that Buffalo Wild wings parmesan chicken-style flavor.

Step 3: Build the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

  • Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet (don’t wipe it out—those browned bits add flavor):
  • Add butter and let it melt completely.
  • Stir in the minced garlic.
  • Cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant, but not browned.
  • Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring.
  • Bring it to a gentle simmer (not a boil).
  • Let it cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.

Add:

  • Italian seasoning
  • Red pepper flakes (if using)
  • Then gradually stir in the freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella cheese.
  • Add the cheese a little at a time.
  • Stir continuously until melted and smooth.
  • Pro Tip: Keep the heat medium-low when adding cheese. High heat can cause the sauce to separate or turn grainy. Stir steadily for a silky finish, just like a proper Buffalo Wild wings recipe.

Step 4: Combine Everything

  • Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
  • Stir gently to coat it in the sauce.
  • Add the drained pasta directly into the pan.
  • Toss using tongs until every strand is coated in that creamy garlic Parmesan sauce.
  • If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water and stir until it loosens up.
  • Let everything simmer together for 1–2 minutes so the pasta absorbs the flavor. This is where the magic happens and the dish really starts to taste like Wild wings garlic Parmesan chicken transformed into pasta form.
  • Pro Tip: Add pasta water one tablespoon at a time. It helps emulsify the sauce and makes it cling beautifully to the pasta.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

  • Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top.
  • Add extra Parmesan if you love it cheesy.

Notes

Nutritional Value (Per Serving – Approximate)

  • Calories: 620–680 kcal
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Fat: 35 g
  • Saturated Fat: 18 g
  • Cholesterol: 145 mg
  • Sodium: 780 mg
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Calcium: 280 mg
  • Iron: 2.5 mg
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Nutrition Disclaimer:
The nutritional information provided on this website is an estimate only and is intended for general guidance. We cannot guarantee its accuracy and recommend consulting a qualified healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized nutrition advice.