Description
Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne combines two beloved flavors—creamy Alfredo sauce and zesty buffalo chicken—to create a hearty, satisfying dish. This comforting pasta is perfect for weeknight dinners, special gatherings, or whenever you’re craving a flavorful meal. With tender penne pasta, shredded chicken, and a spicy buffalo Alfredo sauce, it’s a recipe that’s both simple to make and incredibly rewarding. Let’s explore the step-by-step process to create this delicious dish and discover helpful tips, variations, and serving suggestions.
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
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- 1 lb penne pasta
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- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
Buffalo Alfredo Sauce
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- 1 cup buffalo sauce (adjust for spice preference)
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- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
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- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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- 1 tbsp butter
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- 2 garlic cloves, minced
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- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
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- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil and season it generously with salt. Add the penne pasta and cook it until it reaches an al dente texture, following the instructions on the package. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Cook the chicken breasts until they are tender and fully cooked. You can grill, bake, or boil them, depending on your preference. Allow the chicken to cool slightly, then shred it into pieces using two forks or your hands.. Set the shredded chicken aside.
In a large skillet, heat the butter over medium heat until fully melted. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning. The aroma of garlic will start to fill the kitchen!
Add the heavy cream to the skillet with the garlic. Bring it to a gentle simmer while stirring continuously. Once the cream starts to thicken, gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts completely, creating a smooth, creamy sauce.
Stir in the buffalo sauce, ensuring it is well combined with the Alfredo base. Sample the sauce and adjust the seasoning by adding salt and pepper to your preference.
Add the shredded chicken to the skillet, mixing it thoroughly with the sauce. Let the chicken heat through for a few minutes, absorbing the flavors of the creamy buffalo sauce.
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the buffalo Alfredo sauce.
Transfer the Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne to a serving dish. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a touch of freshness. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Notes
- Adjust Spice: Use more or less buffalo sauce to control the heat level.
- Pasta Cooking: Cook penne al dente for the best texture.
- Smooth Sauce: Use freshly grated Parmesan and stir continuously for a creamy sauce.
- Prep Ahead: Cook and shred chicken beforehand to save time.
- Reheat Gently: Add a splash of cream or milk when reheating leftovers to keep the sauce smooth.
- Customizable: Add vegetables like broccoli or spinach, or swap chicken for shrimp or turkey.
- Serve Fresh: This dish tastes best when served immediately.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 720 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 1150 mg
- Fat: 36 g
- Saturated Fat: 20 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 160 mg
Keywords: Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne, creamy buffalo pasta, spicy Alfredo chicken pasta