Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne

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Introduction

Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne is the ultimate fusion of creamy comfort and bold, spicy flavor. This dish marries tender penne pasta with juicy, seasoned chicken, all tossed in a decadent Alfredo sauce spiked with the tangy heat of Buffalo sauce. The result? A rich, flavorful meal that’s equal parts indulgent and exciting. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a standout dish for entertaining, this creamy, spicy pasta is sure to earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.

The first time I made this, I was amazed at how seamlessly the creamy Alfredo sauce balanced the heat of the Buffalo sauce. Sautéing the chicken with a hint of seasoning and then folding it into the pasta felt simple, yet the flavor payoff was extraordinary. The dish came together quickly, making it a great choice for busy evenings when you still want something special.

What I love most about Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne is its versatility. You can dial up the heat with extra Buffalo sauce or keep it milder for those who prefer a gentler kick. Add a sprinkle of Parmesan or a handful of shredded mozzarella for an extra cheesy touch, or even toss in some steamed broccoli or spinach for a veggie-packed variation. Serve it with a side of garlic bread and a crisp salad, and you’ve got a meal that’s as impressive as it is comforting.

Perfect for:

  • Weeknight dinners
  • Comfort food cravings
  • Casual gatherings
  • Game day meals
  • Pasta and spice lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne will become your new go-to pasta dish:

  • Creamy and Spicy Flavor: The combination of Alfredo sauce and Buffalo sauce creates a creamy, spicy, and tangy balance that’s irresistible.
  • Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and straightforward steps, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Versatile Protein Options: Use grilled, shredded, or breaded chicken to customize the dish to your preference.
  • One-Pot Meal: It’s a satisfying, complete meal with protein, carbs, and a rich sauce all in one dish.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: The bold flavors and creamy texture make it a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 25 minutes
  • Servings: 6 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 500-550 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 30g, Carbs: 50g, Fat: 20g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne:

  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 1 ½ cups cooked chicken (grilled, shredded, or breaded), diced
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup Buffalo sauce (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
  • Crumbled blue cheese (optional, for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Buffalo Sauce: Brings the signature spicy, tangy flavor to the dish. Adjust the amount to control the heat level.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Adds richness and depth to the Alfredo sauce. Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
  • Heavy Cream: Creates a smooth, velvety sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
  • Penne Pasta: The tubular shape holds the creamy sauce and chicken perfectly, making every bite flavorful.
  • Cooked Chicken: Use your favorite style of chicken, from grilled to breaded, to add protein and texture to the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

  1. Boil the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Sauce:

  1. Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  2. Add the Cream: Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes to thicken slightly.
  3. Mix in Cheese and Seasonings: Stir in the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
  4. Add Buffalo Sauce: Pour in the Buffalo sauce, stirring to combine. Adjust the amount of Buffalo sauce to your desired level of heat.

Combine the Ingredients:

  1. Add Chicken: Stir the cooked chicken into the sauce, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
  2. Toss with Pasta: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing until the pasta is well coated with the Buffalo Alfredo sauce.

Garnish and Serve:

  1. Garnish: Sprinkle chopped parsley and crumbled blue cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor (optional).
  2. Serve Hot: Serve the Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne immediately while it’s hot and creamy.

How to Serve

  • Garnish with Fresh Herbs
  • Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or cilantro on top for a pop of color and freshness.
  • Add a Drizzle of Hot Sauce
  • Serve with an extra drizzle of buffalo sauce or hot sauce for those who love extra heat.
  • Top with Crispy Bacon
  • Crumble crispy bacon over the pasta for added texture and smoky flavor.
  • Serve with Garlic Bread
  • Pair the dish with warm garlic bread or breadsticks to soak up the creamy sauce.
  • Offer Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing
  • Provide a small side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping or to drizzle over the pasta.
  • Add Crunch with Fried Onions
  • Top with crispy fried onions for a crunchy texture contrast.
  • Serve Family Style
  • Plate the pasta in a large serving dish and let everyone help themselves.
  • Pair with a Fresh Salad
  • Serve alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness.
  • Include Veggie Toppings
  • Add roasted broccoli, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes to the dish for more variety.
  • Serve in Individual Bowls
  • Portion the pasta into individual bowls for easy and neat serving at a dinner party or casual gathering..

Additional Tips

  • Control the Heat: Use less Buffalo sauce or add extra cream to tone down the spice level.
  • Thicken the Sauce: If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer for a few extra minutes to thicken.
  • Cook Pasta Al Dente: Al dente pasta holds its shape and absorbs the sauce better.
  • Grate Your Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and enhances the flavor of the sauce.
  • Customize the Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or breaded chicken strips for added texture.

Recipe Variations

  1. Buffalo Shrimp Alfredo Penne: Swap the chicken for sautéed shrimp.
  2. Vegetarian Buffalo Alfredo Penne: Use roasted vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower instead of chicken.
  3. Buffalo Turkey Alfredo Penne: Substitute turkey for the chicken for a lighter option.
  4. Extra Cheesy Buffalo Penne: Add shredded mozzarella or cheddar for a cheesier dish.
  5. Spicy Garlic Alfredo Penne: Add extra garlic and chili flakes for more heat.
  6. Buffalo Ranch Alfredo Penne: Drizzle ranch dressing over the finished dish for added creaminess.
  7. Low-Carb Buffalo Alfredo: Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of penne pasta.
  8. Gluten-Free Buffalo Penne: Substitute gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
  9. Buffalo Bacon Alfredo Penne: Sprinkle crispy bacon pieces over the dish for extra flavor.
  10. Buffalo Spinach Alfredo Penne: Add fresh spinach to the sauce for a nutritious twist.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: Store the sauce separately from the pasta before freezing to maintain texture. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
  • Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to loosen the sauce.

Special Equipment

  • Large Skillet or Sauté Pan – For cooking the chicken and combining the sauce with the pasta.
  • Cast-Iron Grill Pan – To achieve grill marks and added flavor for the chicken.
  • Pasta Pot – For boiling the penne to perfection.
  • Colander – To drain the cooked pasta.
  • Immersion Blender – For blending the Alfredo sauce ingredients, if making from scratch.
  • Whisk – To ensure a smooth Alfredo sauce.
  • Microplane or Box Grater – For freshly grating Parmesan cheese.
  • Tongs – For tossing the pasta with the sauce and handling the chicken.
  • Meat Thermometer – To ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature (165°F/74°C).
  • Baking Dish – If baking the dish for a baked Buffalo Chicken Alfredo variation.

FAQ

  1. Can I make this dish less spicy? Yes, reduce the amount of Buffalo sauce and add more cream to balance the heat.
  2. Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce? Absolutely! If you’re short on time, use pre-made Alfredo sauce and mix in Buffalo sauce for a quicker version.
  3. Can I make this ahead of time? While it’s best served fresh, you can make the sauce ahead and reheat it when ready to serve. Cook the pasta fresh for the best texture.
  4. What’s a good substitute for Parmesan cheese? Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese are great alternatives.
  5. Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, feel free to use any pasta shape you like, such as fettuccine, rigatoni, or shells.

Conclusion

Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne is the ultimate comfort food, blending creamy Alfredo sauce with a bold Buffalo kick. Perfect for pasta and spice lovers, this dish delivers indulgent flavors in every bite. With tender pasta, juicy chicken, and a rich, spicy sauce, it’s a guaranteed hit for family dinners, gatherings, or even a cozy night in.

Simple to prepare yet packed with flavor, this recipe is versatile and easy to customize—add veggies, swap proteins, or adjust the spice level to suit your taste. It’s a creamy, spicy delight that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

I can’t wait to see how you make this Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne your own! Snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see your creative twists. Don’t forget to share your tips and favorite variations in the comments. Happy cooking!

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