Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne Recipe

If you are craving a creamy, spicy, and utterly satisfying pasta dish, the Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne Recipe is here to deliver all the flavor power with comforting textures that hug your taste buds. This dish brilliantly combines tender pieces of chicken tossed in fiery buffalo sauce with a luscious, cheesy Alfredo sauce, all lovingly wrapped around perfectly cooked penne pasta. It’s that beautiful blend of heat and creaminess that makes this recipe an instant favorite for weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers with friends. Trust me, once you try this Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne Recipe, it will quickly become a staple in your kitchen rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in building the bold, rich flavors and delightful textures that define this dish. From the smooth heavy cream to the spicy buffalo sauce, every element is simple yet essential in creating the perfect balance of heat and creaminess.

• 1 pound penne pasta: The ideal pasta shape to hold onto the creamy sauce and bits of chicken in every bite.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides a light and healthy base for sautéing chicken and garlic to golden perfection.
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces: Tender protein that absorbs all the buffalo flavor beautifully.
• Salt and black pepper to taste: The simple essentials for seasoning chicken and balancing the sauce.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds fragrant warmth and depth to the sauce.
• 1/4 cup buffalo sauce: The fiery heart of the dish, infusing each bite with that signature kick.
• 2 cups heavy cream: Creates the rich, velvety Alfredo sauce that mates perfectly with the spicy buffalo notes.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sharp and nutty flavor that melts into the sauce making it irresistibly creamy.
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: Brings gooey, melty goodness that makes the sauce even more indulgent.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice: A splash of brightness to brighten the creamy, spicy flavors.
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish): Adds fresh color and subtle herbal notes to finish the dish.
• 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles (optional, for topping): For an extra layer of tangy richness that pairs beautifully with buffalo sauce.
• Additional buffalo sauce for drizzling (optional): Perfect for those who want to dial up the spice even more.

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne Recipe

Step 1: Cook the pasta

The foundation of any great pasta dish starts with perfectly cooked noodles. Boil your penne according to the package instructions until al dente. This ensures the pasta holds its shape and provides a slight bite that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce. Once cooked, drain and set aside, so it’s ready to soak up all those delicious flavors.

Step 2: Sauté the chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and black pepper for balanced seasoning. Cook the chicken until it’s golden brown on the outside and cooked through, about 7 to 10 minutes. Removing the chicken at this point keeps it juicy and perfectly tender, making it a star in the final dish.

Step 3: Infuse with garlic

Using the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and sauté briefly for about one minute until it releases its aromatic fragrance. This technique captures the garlic’s natural sweetness and depth, laying a flavorful base for the sauce without overpowering the other ingredients.

Step 4: Combine buffalo sauce and cream

Pour the buffalo sauce and heavy cream into the skillet with the garlic, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture gently to a simmer to marry the spicy and creamy elements. This step creates the lush, spicy Alfredo sauce that makes this recipe so unforgettable.

Step 5: Melt in the cheeses

Lower the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheeses. Keep stirring until the cheeses melt smoothly into the sauce, giving it that characteristic velvety consistency and irresistible cheesy flavor that clings to every piece of pasta and chicken.

Step 6: Bring it all together

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the drained penne pasta. Stir everything well so each piece is coated with the creamy buffalo sauce. This ensures a harmonious distribution of flavors and textures so you get a bit of chicken, sauce, and pasta in every bite.

Step 7: Brighten with lemon and adjust seasoning

Add lemon juice for a burst of brightness that cuts through the richness while enhancing the overall flavor profile. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper to your liking, ensuring every factor is perfectly balanced.

Step 8: Add optional garnishes

If you love a bit of fresh herbaceous contrast, sprinkle chopped parsley over the dish. To intensify that classic buffalo flavor, scatter blue cheese crumbles on top for a creamy, tangy finish that makes each bite even more dynamic.

Step 9: Extra buffalo kick

For those who adore spice, drizzle a bit more buffalo sauce across the dish before serving. It’s a great way to customize the heat level and impress any buffalo sauce fan around the dinner table.

Step 10: Serve hot and enjoy!

Plate up your Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne Recipe while it’s warm and creamy. This dish is best enjoyed fresh to savor the perfect combination of crispy chicken, rich sauce, and al dente pasta at their peak.

How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne Recipe

Garnishes

Garnishing with fresh chopped parsley adds a splash of vibrant green, enhancing both the appearance and refreshing the palate. Blue cheese crumbles introduce a tangy, creamy element that echoes the buffalo sauce’s classic flavors, making each forkful exciting and rich.

Side Dishes

When serving this hearty and flavorful dish, consider light, crisp sides to balance the richness. A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette, steamed broccoli, or roasted vegetables complement the Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne beautifully without competing for attention.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, bake the completed Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne in a casserole dish topped with extra cheese until golden and bubbly. You can also serve it in individual ramekins for an elegant presentation that’s perfect for entertaining guests, turning this comfort food favorite into a show-stopping meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store leftovers in an airtight container to preserve freshness and prevent the creamy sauce from drying out.

Freezing

This recipe can be frozen, but note that the texture of the Alfredo sauce might change slightly. Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months to enjoy later. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Gently reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of cream or milk if needed to revive the creamy sauce. Avoid overheating to keep the chicken tender and the sauce smooth.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely! While penne is the recommended choice for its sauce-holding ridges, other sturdy pastas like rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle will work just as well in this Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne Recipe.

Is this recipe very spicy?

The buffalo sauce provides a noticeable but balanced level of heat. If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the buffalo sauce amount or use a mild version. You can always add more if you want extra kick when serving.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, swap the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, cauliflower florets, or plant-based chicken alternatives. The rich sauce and spicy buffalo flavor will still shine and satisfy.

What kind of buffalo sauce should I use?

Traditional spicy buffalo sauce works best, but you can experiment with homemade or store-bought varieties to tailor the heat and tanginess to your preference. Make sure it’s smooth and well-balanced for the best results.

How do I avoid the sauce breaking?

When melting the cheeses, keep the heat low to prevent the sauce from curdling. Stir gently and patiently until everything is smooth and creamy. Adding the cheeses gradually also helps maintain that perfect consistency.

Final Thoughts

I cannot recommend enough giving this Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne Recipe a spot on your dinner menu. It’s the kind of comforting yet bold dish that feels like a warm hug with a spicy punch, perfect for those nights you want something special but easy. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s a favorite for busy weeknights, casual parties, or simply when you deserve a delicious treat. So, grab your ingredients and get cooking — your taste buds will thank you!

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