Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances spicy, creamy, and comforting flavors, you’re in for a treat with the Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne Recipe. This vibrant pasta combines tender shredded chicken tossed in tangy buffalo sauce with a rich, velvety Alfredo sauce that coats every bite of penne pasta. It’s a fusion of classic Buffalo wing heat with Italian indulgence that transforms simple ingredients into a spectacular meal your family and friends will rave about. Trust me, once you make this, Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne Recipe will become an instant favorite in your dinner rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward yet essential for capturing the essence of the Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne Recipe. Each one plays a vital role—the pasta creates the perfect base, the chicken adds hearty protein, and the combination of cheeses with buffalo sauce delivers that amazing creamy spice we all love.

• 1 pound penne pasta: Choose a quality brand for a perfect al dente bite that holds the sauce beautifully.
• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or your favorite leftover chicken for extra flavor.
• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce: Pick your preferred heat level—it adds the signature tangy kick.
• 2 cups heavy cream: This creates the luxuriously creamy Alfredo base that balances the heat.
• 1/4 cup butter: Adds richness and helps mellow the garlic flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic infuses an aromatic depth to the sauce.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: The salty nutty flavor melts into the sauce for a classic Alfredo taste.
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds gooey, melty texture that binds everything together smoothly.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant herb blend that elevates the sauce’s complexity.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to perfectly balance all the 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 boil. Cooking the penne pasta al dente is key—it ensures the pasta remains firm enough to hold up against the rich Alfredo sauce, creating the perfect textural balance in every bite.

Step 2: Drain and Set Aside

Once the penne reaches the perfect al dente texture following your package instructions, drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside. This keeps it ready to soak up all the creamy, spicy goodness in the next steps.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce Base

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt your butter. The butter serves as the creamy foundation that’ll carry the garlic’s aroma and body for the Alfredo sauce, giving the dish its luscious texture.

Step 4: Sauté the Garlic

Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about one minute, just until it becomes fragrant. This step infuses the sauce with fresh, vibrant flavor without overpowering the rest of the dish.

Step 5: Combine Cream, Buffalo Sauce, and Seasoning

Pour in the heavy cream, buffalo sauce, and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Let this mixture simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring now and then so it thickens and the flavors deepen wonderfully.

Step 6: Melt in the Cheeses

Gradually add the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses to the simmering sauce, stirring continuously until the cheeses melt completely and create an irresistibly creamy, velvety texture. This step is where your pasta sauce truly comes alive.

Step 7: Mix in the Chicken

Stir the shredded cooked chicken into the cheesy sauce, making sure every piece gets beautifully coated. This allows the buffalo flavor to permeate the chicken, marrying spice and creaminess perfectly.

Step 8: Toss with Cooked Pasta

Finally, add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss everything together so every piece of pasta is enveloped in the rich Buffalo Chicken Alfredo sauce. This ensures a cohesive dish bursting with flavor in every bite.

Step 9: Serve Immediately

Plate the pasta while it’s hot and fresh for the best taste and texture. You can sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh chopped parsley to brighten the dish just before serving.

How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne Recipe

Garnishes

Adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped chives on top not only brightens the presentation but adds a refreshing herbaceous note that contrasts beautifully with the creamy and spicy sauce. For an extra touch, a dash of extra Parmesan can enhance the cheesy goodness.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Consider serving with garlic bread or crusty rolls for mopping up any leftover sauce—both great companions to the Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne Recipe.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this pasta in mini cast-iron skillets or warm ramekins for individual portions that wow at dinner parties. You could also mound it over a bed of sautéed spinach or roasted vegetables for added color, texture, and nutrients.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days, making it an excellent option for next-day lunch or a quick dinner.

Freezing

While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to two months. Use freezer-safe containers and allow the dish to cool completely before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of cream or milk to revive the creamy texture. Avoid overheating to keep the sauce from separating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne is ideal for holding the sauce, rigatoni, fusilli, or bowtie pasta work wonderfully too. Choose your favorite to customize the Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne Recipe to your liking.

How spicy is this dish?

The heat level depends on the buffalo sauce you choose. Mild, medium, or hot buffalo sauces will change the spice intensity, so pick one that matches your preference. You can always add more buffalo sauce for extra punch!

Can I make this recipe without chicken?

Yes, for a vegetarian twist, omit the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms, roasted cauliflower, or crispy tofu. The creaminess and buffalo flavor will still shine deliciously.

Is there a lighter substitute for heavy cream?

If you want to lighten up the dish, try using half-and-half or whole milk, but keep in mind the sauce might be less thick and rich. You could also experiment with a blend of milk and cream cheese for creaminess.

How long does it take to prepare this recipe?

The Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne Recipe comes together quickly—about 10 minutes prep time and 20 minutes cooking, making it perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal when you want something special without the fuss.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about combining the spicy zest of buffalo sauce with the creamy comfort of Alfredo in one dish. The Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne Recipe delivers on flavor, texture, and ease, making it a must-try for anyone who loves bold, comforting meals. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe—it just might become your new go-to dinner for busy nights or casual gatherings with friends and family.

Print