Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne Recipe
If you’re craving a meal that wonderfully balances creamy, spicy, and comforting all in one bite, then you absolutely have to dive into this Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne Recipe. It takes the classic rich Alfredo pasta and kicks it up a notch with tangy buffalo sauce and tender shredded chicken, creating a dish that’s both indulgent and perfectly satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your dinner rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with the Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne Recipe is a breeze thanks to its simple, straightforward ingredients. Each component plays a special role—from the creamy heavy cream that forms the base of the sauce, to the punchy buffalo sauce that gives this dish its signature heat and flavor, and of course, the tender chicken and perfectly cooked penne that bring everything together.
- 1 pound penne pasta: Choose quality penne that cooks al dente and holds onto the sauce beautifully.
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken: Rotisserie chicken works great for convenience and flavor.
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce: Select your favorite buffalo wing sauce to tailor the spice level exactly how you like it.
- 2 cups heavy cream: This adds the luscious creaminess that defines Alfredo sauce.
- 1/4 cup butter: Enhances richness and creates a silky texture in the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds depth and a savory aroma you’ll love.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharpness and helps thicken the sauce perfectly.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts smoothly for an extra gooey, cheesy finish.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings a subtle blend of herbs that complement the bold flavors.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the vibrant flavors.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook it until it’s perfectly al dente, usually according to the package instructions. Once done, drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside, ready for the creamy sauce that’s coming next.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
Place a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter. As soon as it’s bubbly, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about one minute until it releases that irresistible fragrant aroma that signals good things ahead. Carefully stir in the heavy cream, buffalo sauce, and Italian seasoning, then let the mixture simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes. This step melds the flavors beautifully, setting the stage for the cheesy goodness.
Step 3: Incorporate the Cheese
Now for the magic moment: gradually add the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses into your sauce, stirring continuously. Watch as the cheeses melt into a rich, smooth, and creamy texture that clings perfectly to every bite of pasta. This cheesy blend gives the Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne Recipe its signature indulgence.
Step 4: Combine with Chicken and Pasta
Mix the shredded chicken into the luscious sauce, making sure every piece is generously coated. Then, gently toss in the cooked penne pasta, stirring to evenly distribute the sauce, chicken, and all those fantastic flavors. This is where the dish truly comes alive, each forkful bursting with creamy, spicy, and savory notes.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Plate your Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne immediately to enjoy it at its creamiest best. Feel free to sprinkle some fresh parsley or extra Parmesan on top for a burst of color and an extra punch of flavor.
How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or green onions adds a lovely brightness that cuts through the richness. A few extra dashes of buffalo sauce on top can bring in more heat if you’re feeling adventurous. Parmesan cheese, grated freshly, never hurts and adds a final savory touch.
Side Dishes
This Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne pairs perfectly with crisp, refreshing sides like a simple Caesar salad or crunchy celery sticks. Garlic bread or soft dinner rolls are also excellent companions that help mop up every bit of that creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the pasta in mini mason jars for an informal party platter or layer it in a casserole dish with extra cheese on top, then broil it briefly until golden and bubbly. It’s equally delightful served family-style in a big serving bowl, inviting everyone to dig in together.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool the pasta completely before sealing to maintain freshness and flavor integrity.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if you want to keep it longer. Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zipper bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Just know that the pasta texture may soften slightly once thawed.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of cream or milk to bring back that silky consistency. Alternatively, microwave covered in short bursts, stirring in between to maintain the creamy texture without separating.
FAQs
Can I use another type of pasta for this Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne Recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is excellent for holding the sauce, you can use any pasta shape you love, such as rigatoni, fusilli, or even fettuccine, to customize the dish to your liking.
How spicy is this dish?
The heat largely depends on the buffalo sauce you use. If you want to control the spiciness, choose a mild or medium buffalo sauce and adjust from there. It’s easy to add extra sauce at the table if you enjoy a bigger kick!
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply swap the chicken for hearty vegetables like roasted cauliflower or mushrooms, and consider using a vegetarian buffalo sauce to keep the flavor intact.
Is it possible to lighten up the Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne Recipe?
You can lighten the dish by substituting half-and-half or whole milk in place of heavy cream and using less butter, but keep in mind that the sauce might be less rich and creamy.
What’s the best way to shred cooked chicken?
The easiest method is to use two forks to pull the chicken apart once it’s cooked. Alternatively, you can pulse it briefly in a food processor for a finer shred, but be careful not to turn it into mush!
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that’s equal parts comfort and excitement, diving into this Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne Recipe will be one of the most rewarding decisions you make. Creamy, spicy, cheesy, and loaded with tender chicken, it brings warmth and joy to any mealtime. So gather your ingredients, invite a few friends or family members, and enjoy making—and eating—this fantastic dish together. You’re going to love every single bite!
Print
Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne is a creamy, spicy pasta dish combining tender shredded chicken tossed in a rich buffalo cream sauce with penne pasta. This quick and flavorful recipe delivers a perfect balance of heat and cheesy goodness, ideal for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 pound penne pasta
Chicken
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
Sauce
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, buffalo sauce, and Italian seasoning. Let the mixture simmer for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally to combine flavors.
- Incorporate the Cheese: Gradually add the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheeses to the sauce, stirring continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Add the shredded cooked chicken into the sauce, stirring thoroughly to ensure the chicken is well coated with the buffalo cream sauce.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and stir gently to evenly distribute the sauce over the pasta and chicken.
- Serve: Plate the buffalo chicken alfredo penne immediately. Optionally garnish with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan cheese for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Use cooked chicken to speed up preparation time; rotisserie chicken works well.
- Adjust buffalo sauce quantity based on your preferred spice level.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a lighter cream option.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, cook it a bit longer to reduce.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or extra Parmesan for enhanced flavor and presentation.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
