Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne combines the rich creaminess of Alfredo sauce with the spicy kick of buffalo chicken. This dish is perfect for those who appreciate a comforting meal with a bit of spice.
Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne is a versatile recipe that satisfies both creamy and spicy cravings in one dish.
Preparing this meal at home is easier than it might seem. A blend of buffalo sauce with seasoned chicken brings bold flavors, while the Alfredo sauce adds a smooth, cheesy base.
Adding cooked penne pasta into the mix makes it hearty and filling, ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings.
The balance of flavors in Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne appeals to a wide range of tastes. With a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for garnish, this dish also looks as delightful as it tastes.
Whether you’re serving it for a weekday meal or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to catch everyone’s attention and become a favorite choice.
Why You Will Love Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne
Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne is the perfect dish for those who enjoy bold flavors with a touch of comfort. The creamy alfredo sauce pairs beautifully with the spicy kick of buffalo sauce, making every bite exciting.
This dish shines as a weeknight dinner. It’s easy to prepare, which makes it a great option for busy evenings. The combination of ingredients transforms simple pasta into a delicious meal that doesn’t take hours in the kitchen.
A true crowd-pleaser, this pasta is well-suited for family dinners and gatherings with friends. Its rich, creamy texture and vibrant flavors appeal to both adults and kids alike.
It’s ideal for anyone in search of creamy comfort food.
Serve Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne when you need a dish that satisfies both your craving for creamy pasta and a spicy punch. It brings hearty flavors together, making it a highlight of any dinner table.
The dish is not only comforting but also keeps everyone at the table wanting more.
How To Make Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne
Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne combines the rich taste of creamy alfredo sauce with spicy buffalo chicken. It’s a straightforward recipe that requires common kitchen tools and delicious ingredients.
Ingredients
For this dish, gather the following ingredients:
- Chicken Breasts: About 1 pound, cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Penne Pasta: 12 ounces of dried penne.
- Butter: 2 tablespoons.
- Minced Garlic: 2 cloves to add flavor.
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup for creaminess.
- Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup of grated cheese.
- Buffalo Sauce: 1/2 cup for that spicy kick.
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon for cooking.
- Salt and Black Pepper: To season.
Finish with fresh parsley to garnish the dish.
Instruments
To prepare Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne, you’ll need a few kitchen instruments:
- Large Pot: For boiling the pasta.
- Large Skillet: For cooking the chicken and sauce.
- Wooden Spoon: For stirring.
- Measuring Cups: For precise ingredient amounts.
- Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping ingredients.
- Colander: To drain the pasta.
These tools support efficient and organized cooking.
Step By Step Instruction
- Cook the Pasta: Boil water in a large pot, add salt, and cook the penne until al dente. Drain using a colander and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Heat olive oil in the skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and fully cooked.
- Make the Alfredo Sauce: Lower the heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet, letting it simmer for a minute. Pour in the heavy cream, followed by the parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts to form a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the buffalo sauce to the alfredo sauce, stirring to mix thoroughly. Add the cooked penne and chicken back to the skillet. Toss until the pasta and chicken are well-coated with the sauce.
- Serve: Remove from heat. Place the pasta in serving dishes and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
This method ensures the buffalo and creamy flavors blend perfectly, creating a delightful meal.
Tips & Tricks
When making Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne, keep a few tips in mind. Adding a touch of extra hot sauce can make the dish spicier. Adjust this based on your personal taste.
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated Parmesan at the end can elevate the flavors.
For those who love to plan ahead, this recipe is ideal for meal prep. Prepare it in advance and portion it into separate containers. It can be stored in the fridge for up to three days.
Just reheat before serving to enjoy a quick lunch or dinner.
Leftovers can be just as delicious. When storing, use airtight containers to keep the dish fresh.
When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to maintain its creamy texture. Stirring occasionally while reheating helps preserve the quality of the sauce.
If you’re considering freezing the buffalo chicken alfredo, it’s possible but with a bit of caution. Cream-based sauces can sometimes change texture.
Freeze in portions and let it thaw in the fridge before reheating slowly on the stove. Adding a bit of cream can help bring back its original consistency.
Ingredient Substitute
When making Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne, there are plenty of ways to switch things up to match dietary needs or personal taste preferences.
Chicken: If you’re pressed for time, rotisserie chicken can be a quick and flavorful option. Shredded chicken works just as well if you have leftovers.
For those seeking a vegetarian version, consider grilled vegetables or tofu.
Pasta: For those avoiding gluten, gluten-free pasta is an excellent swap that doesn’t compromise on texture or taste.
Short noodles like penne or rotini are particularly good for holding the creamy sauce.
Cheese: Using mozzarella cheese or shredded mozzarella cheese adds a great creaminess.
To cut down on calories, try a low-fat cream version of the cheese, which still offers a satisfying richness without being too heavy.
Adjusting these ingredients allows everyone to enjoy the dish, whether they’re sticking to a specific diet or simply prefer different textures and flavors.
What To Serve With Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne
Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne is a delicious meal that pairs well with a variety of sides. If you’re looking to complete your dinner, here are some great ideas.
Garlic Bread: A classic choice! Garlic bread complements the creamy sauce and spicy chicken. The crispy texture is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
Side Salad: A fresh side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the Alfredo. Consider using mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers for some crunch.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted veggies like broccoli or asparagus can add some color and nutrition to your plate. Season them lightly with garlic and olive oil for a simple yet tasty addition.
Vegetable Sides: Sautéed spinach or steamed green beans are quick and healthy options. These veggie sides keep the meal light and refreshing.
Don’t forget the drinks! A glass of iced tea or a light white wine could complement these flavors beautifully.
With these serving suggestions, your meal will be both satisfying and memorable.
Nutrition Fact In List Form
When it comes to Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne, the nutritional components can vary. Here are some key elements typically found in this dish:
- Calories:
- Approximately 266 calories per serving
- Fat:
- Barilla Penne Pasta contributes significantly, alongside cheese sauce
- Fat content is around 34% of the total calories
- Carbohydrates:
- Carbs make up a significant portion, sitting at around 44%
- Protein:
- Provides a moderate protein boost, approximately 23%
- Main Ingredients:
- Barilla Penne Pasta
- Ragu Roasted Garlic Parmesan Cheese Sauce
- Cooked chicken breasts
This dish offers a balanced mix of macronutrients. Keep these facts in mind if you’re counting calories or looking to balance your diet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne is a delicious dish combining creamy Alfredo with spicy Buffalo flavors. Various ingredients and easy substitutions allow customization, while different methods can enhance the dish.
What ingredients are needed to make Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne?
To make Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne, gather penne pasta, cooked chicken, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, butter, and garlic. Frank’s RedHot sauce adds the Buffalo flavor. Include salt, pepper, and optional green onions or parsley for garnish.
How do you prepare the chicken for a Buffalo Chicken Alfredo pasta dish?
Chicken can be baked, grilled, or pan-fried for this dish. Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut, saving time and adding flavor. Shred or dice the cooked chicken before mixing it into the pasta.
What are the steps to creating a creamy Alfredo sauce for Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne?
Melt butter in a pan, then add minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream, stirring continuously. Gradually mix in grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and thick. Season with salt and pepper to taste before incorporating the Buffalo sauce.
Are there any variations of the Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne recipe that include different pasta shapes?
This dish is versatile with pasta choices. Besides penne, use rigatoni, fettuccine, ziti, or even fusilli. Each pasta shape provides a different texture, so choose one that best matches your preference.
Can Buffalo Chicken Alfredo be made into a baked casserole dish?
Yes, you can transform this into a casserole by placing it in a baking dish. Top with extra cheese, bake until bubbly, and golden brown. The result is a comforting, oven-baked meal perfect for leftovers.
What is the best way to incorporate Frank’s RedHot sauce into a chicken Alfredo recipe?
You can incorporate Frank’s RedHot sauce into the Alfredo sauce in a few simple steps. First, stir the preferred amount into the Alfredo sauce after the cheese melts. Then, adjust the heat levels to taste, balancing creamy and spicy flavors. Add extra sauce for more kick if desired.
Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne
Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet or sauté pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- strainer
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast shredded or cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- ¾ cup Buffalo sauce like Frank’s RedHot
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley or green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss with buffalo sauce. Let it cook for 2–3 minutes.
- Lower the heat and pour in heavy cream and milk. Stir continuously until the mixture is hot but not boiling.
- Add Parmesan and mozzarella cheese; stir until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the buffalo Alfredo sauce.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions and an extra drizzle of buffalo sauce if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Calories: 640
- Protein: 36g
- Fat: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 980mg
