1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. While the pasta cooks, you can start preparing the chicken and sauce. Before draining, reserve about 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water – this can be used later to thin the sauce if needed. Drain the pasta and set aside.

2. Prepare the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs into 1-inch cubes. Pat them dry with a paper towel to help them brown better. Season the chicken pieces with garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.

3. Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165 F (74 C). Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

4. Make the Creamy Buffalo Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter to the same skillet, allowing it to melt. Once melted, add the softened cream cheese and whisk constantly until it’s smooth and fully incorporated into the butter. This will create the creamy base for your sauce.

5. Combine the Sauce Ingredients: Gradually whisk in the milk until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Then, pour in the buffalo sauce and stir until well combined. Continue to cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce is heated through and slightly thickened. If the sauce seems too thick, add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

6. Add Cheese and Finish: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts completely into the sauce, making it extra rich and cheesy. Once the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth, return the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet. Add the drained pasta to the skillet as well. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are thoroughly coated in the creamy buffalo sauce.

7. Serve Immediately: Divide the creamy buffalo chicken pasta among serving bowls. If desired, sprinkle with crumbled blue cheese and chopped fresh chives or green onions for an extra layer of flavor and a pop of color. Enjoy your delicious weeknight comfort dinner!