Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a truly unforgettable twist on both pasta night and game-day classics, this Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne is about to become your new obsession. Imagine tender penne noodles enveloped in a lusciously creamy Alfredo sauce, spiced up with tangy buffalo wing sauce and studded with juicy pulled chicken. Finished with a blanket of melted cheeses and a final flourish of fresh parsley and blue cheese crumbles, this dish is pure comfort with a fiery kick. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or celebrating with friends, Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne brings hearty, spicy, cheesy satisfaction to the table, and it’s bound to be requested again and again.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients that come together for a mouthwatering harmony of flavors. Each component serves a special purpose to elevate the texture, depth, and bright color of your final Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne.

• Penne pasta: The sturdy shape of penne is perfect for catching every bit of creamy, spicy sauce.
• Butter: Adds richness and lays the foundation for a velvety Alfredo sauce.
• Garlic: Just a little minced garlic goes a long way to boost the savory backbone of the dish.
• Cooked shredded chicken: Using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken slashes prep time and adds juiciness.
• Buffalo wing sauce: Brings unmistakable heat, tang, and that crave-worthy Buffalo flavor.
• Heavy cream: Essential for a luxurious, silky texture that feels utterly indulgent.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Infuses the sauce with salty, nutty complexity and helps thicken it perfectly.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into ooey-gooey ribbons, ensuring every bite is wonderfully cheesy.
• Salt: Just a touch, to amplify all the other flavors without overpowering them.
• Black pepper: Adds gentle warmth and balance to the creaminess of the sauce.
• Chopped parsley and blue cheese crumbles (optional): These garnishes offer color, freshness, and a classic Buffalo finish that takes things over the top.

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Get a large pot of salted water boiling and cook your penne pasta according to the package directions until just al dente. The pasta will soak up some sauce later, so don’t overcook it. Once done, drain and set aside—you’ll want it ready to join the magical sauce momentarily.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large skillet or sauté pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and let it sizzle for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be sure to stir constantly, since garlic can go from golden to burnt in a heartbeat. This step is where the flavor party really starts!

Step 3: Make the Buffalo Alfredo Sauce

Pour the buffalo wing sauce and heavy cream right into the skillet, giving everything a gentle stir. Bring to a nice, low simmer. Now, reduce the heat to low and whisk in the Parmesan cheese, stirring well until it’s completely melted and the sauce is smooth and glossy. This is when your kitchen will start smelling absolutely irresistible.

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce

Add the shredded chicken and cooked penne into the skillet with your luxurious Buffalo Alfredo sauce. Use tongs or a big spoon to toss everything together, making sure the pasta is well coated and the chicken is snuggled into every nook and cranny. The color should be vibrant and tempting—it’s a sight to behold!

Step 5: Melt the Mozzarella and Finish

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over everything and let it cook for another 2 to 3 minutes. Watch as it melts and becomes gloriously gooey, transforming the skillet into a bubbling, creamy masterpiece. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, then remove from heat.

How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne

Garnishes

For a restaurant-worthy finish, sprinkle your Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne with chopped fresh parsley for brightness and a shower of blue cheese crumbles for that classic Buffalo wing flair. The blue cheese brings a bold, tangy contrast that perfectly complements the spicy-creamy sauce, while the parsley keeps things fresh and vibrant.

Side Dishes

Pairing is everything! Garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser and extra helpful for mopping up every drop of sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter touch, a crisp green salad with ranch or bleu cheese dressing will echo the Buffalo theme beautifully. Roasted veggies or even celery sticks are fun nods to traditional Buffalo servings.

Creative Ways to Present

Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne isn’t just for bowls! Try serving in individual ramekins as a party-friendly baked pasta, or scoop smaller portions into lettuce cups for a handheld, game-day spin. You can even scoop leftovers onto pizza dough for an unforgettable Buffalo-inspired pizza night.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Breeze through busy weekdays by storing leftovers of Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll hold up beautifully for up to three days, making lunch or dinner completely fuss-free and just as decadent as day one.

Freezing

This pasta freezes surprisingly well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. Label with the date and freeze for up to two months. Let thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results. While the dairy-rich sauce might separate slightly, a quick stir while reheating brings everything back together.

Reheating

Warm up portions gently in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Stir often to keep things creamy and prevent drying out. Top again with a bit of mozzarella or blue cheese before serving to refresh those bold, melty flavors.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! Penne is classic, but rotini, rigatoni, or even shells would hold the sauce well. Choose your favorite noodle shape—just keep an eye on cook time for that perfect al dente bite.

Is there a way to make this dish less spicy?

Definitely. If you prefer a milder flavor, simply reduce the buffalo wing sauce by half or swap in a mild wing sauce or even a creamy ranch dressing for a gentle kick instead of a full-on fire.

Can I make Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne gluten-free?

Yes! Opt for your favorite gluten-free penne pasta and double-check that your buffalo sauce is gluten-free as well. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so everyone can dig in with confidence.

What protein substitutes work if I don’t have chicken?

Shredded rotisserie turkey, cooked shrimp, or even roasted cauliflower make fantastic alternatives. The creamy, zesty sauce pairs well with almost anything you love—be adventurous and make it your own!

How do I prevent the sauce from separating?

Be sure to heat the cream gradually and keep the sauce at a gentle simmer rather than a boil. Whisk the cheeses in slowly and avoid overheating once everything’s combined. A gentle hand makes all the difference for a smooth, luscious Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne.

Final Thoughts

There’s something downright irresistible about the fusion of creamy Alfredo and crave-worthy Buffalo sauce in this pasta. Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne is pure comfort with personality, and it’s a guaranteed hit for spice lovers and creamy pasta fans alike. Give it a whirl and watch it become the star of your table—don’t forget to savor every saucy, cheesy forkful!

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