Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne – Spicy, Creamy, and Irresistible!

If you’re in the mood for a dish that packs a flavorful punch, look no further than Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne! This recipe combines the rich creaminess of Alfredo sauce with the bold, spicy kick of buffalo sauce. The result? A perfect blend of heat, creaminess, and cheesy goodness. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just cooking for your family, this dish will be the star of the show!

In this article, we will guide you through every step of making this deliciously spicy and creamy pasta dish. You’ll find the ingredients, detailed directions, and helpful tips to make your Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne even more delicious. Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!

Ingredients for Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne

Before you start cooking, it’s important to gather all the ingredients to ensure everything goes smoothly. Fortunately, this recipe uses simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)

These ingredients come together to create a rich, spicy, creamy dish that everyone will love. The buffalo sauce adds the heat, the heavy cream brings the creaminess, and the cheeses provide that irresistible gooey texture. Now, let’s dive into the steps to make this mouthwatering dish!

Step-by-Step Directions for Making Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne

Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple directions to make Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne that will leave your taste buds craving more.

1. Cook the Penne Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 lb of penne pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package directions, usually for about 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Al dente is the perfect texture for this dish, as it holds up well when combined with the creamy sauce.

Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and set it aside. You can toss the pasta with a little olive oil to prevent it from sticking together if you’d like. Now, you’re ready to move on to the chicken.

2. Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. While the oil heats up, cut your 1 lb chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Season the chicken with 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. This seasoning mix will give the chicken a flavorful base and a slightly smoky, savory flavor.

Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet, and cook it for about 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through. You’ll want the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat. Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.

Tip: Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes before chopping it further. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and tender.

3. Make the Alfredo Sauce

Now that your chicken is cooked, it’s time to make the sauce! In the same skillet, add 1/2 cup buffalo sauce and 1/2 cup heavy cream. Stir them together until well combined. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

Let the sauce simmer for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. The buffalo sauce will add a tangy, spicy kick, while the heavy cream will mellow out the heat and create a rich, creamy texture.

4. Combine the Chicken, Pasta, and Sauce

Once the sauce is simmered to perfection, it’s time to bring everything together. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it to coat it with the buffalo sauce. Make sure each piece of chicken is nicely coated with a spicy, creamy sauce.

Next, add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together so that the pasta is completely coated in the creamy buffalo sauce. You can gently stir the mixture to ensure everything is combined evenly.

5. Add the Cheeses

Now comes the cheesy magic! Stir in 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted, and the sauce becomes wonderfully creamy. The mozzarella will give the dish that stringy, gooey cheese texture, while the Parmesan will add a sharp, nutty flavor.

Tip: If you want the cheese to melt faster, turn the heat to low and cover the skillet for a minute or two. This will create a nice steam effect, ensuring the cheese melts smoothly into the sauce.

6. Serve and Garnish

Once everything is combined and the cheese is melted, it’s time to serve your Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne! Spoon the pasta and chicken mixture onto plates or into bowls. Garnish with 1 tablespoon chopped parsley for a pop of color and a fresh flavor that balances the richness of the dish.

Serve your Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne hot, and enjoy the spicy, creamy goodness in every bite!

 

Nutritional Information for Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne

If you’re curious about the nutritional content of this delicious pasta dish, here’s a breakdown:

• Calories: 500 kcal per serving
• Servings: 4 servings

This dish is a satisfying meal that combines protein, carbs, and healthy fats in a single plate. While it’s a bit indulgent, the flavor and creamy texture make it well worth the calories!

Serving Suggestions for Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne

If you’re looking for ways to complete your meal, here are a few side dishes that pair beautifully with Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne:

• Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with a side of garlic bread to scoop up all that delicious sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of roasted carrots, broccoli, or cauliflower will add a healthy, crunchy contrast to the creamy pasta.
• Fresh Salad: A simple side salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette will provide a refreshing balance to the richness of the pasta.
• Crispy Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges would make a great side for those who love a bit of extra comfort food with their meal.

Variations and Customizations

This Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne recipe is super versatile! Here are a few ways you can customize it to suit your tastes or dietary needs:

1. Spicy Heat Level:

If you like things extra spicy, increase the amount of buffalo sauce. For an even bolder flavor, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.

2. Swap the Protein:

While this recipe uses chicken, you can easily swap it out for shrimp or even grilled steak. You could also go vegetarian by using tofu or mushrooms.

3. Lighten It Up:

For a lighter version of this dish, try using low-fat cream instead of heavy cream and reduced-fat cheese. You can also substitute the pasta with zucchini noodles or another low-carb option.

4. Add Veggies:

Feel free to incorporate some veggies into the dish. Spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers are all great additions that complement the rich sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne turns out perfectly every time, here are a few common mistakes to watch out for:

1. Overcooking the Chicken:

To avoid dry, overcooked chicken, monitor the cooking time closely. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

2. Overcooking the Pasta:

Make sure not to overcook the pasta. Cooking the penne al dente ensures that it holds up well when mixed with the creamy sauce.

3. Not Adding Enough Sauce:

Buffalo sauce is a key flavor in this recipe, so don’t be shy about it. Ensure you add enough buffalo sauce and cream to create a rich, flavorful sauce that coats all the pasta and chicken.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Simply reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit of cream if the sauce has thickened too much.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes! You can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and warm it up on the stovetop.

Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely! Swap out the regular penne pasta for a gluten-free version if needed. The sauce and chicken will pair perfectly with gluten-free pasta.

Conclusion

Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne is a bold and creamy pasta dish that’s guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. With its perfect blend of spicy buffalo sauce, creamy Alfredo sauce, and tender chicken, this recipe is a must-try for any pasta lover. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing a cozy meal for yourself, this dish is sure to please. Give it a try today and enjoy the spicy, creamy goodness in every bite!

For more recipes like this one, be sure to check out these other amazing dishes:

• BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Nachos – The Ultimate Party Snack
• Sizzling Bacon Cheeseburger Queso Dip – Irresistible and Cheesy
• Loaded Cheddar Bacon Chicken Fingers – A Must-Try Appetizer

Let us know how you enjoyed making Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne, and share your creative twists on this delicious dish!

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