Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne mixes spicy Buffalo chicken with creamy Alfredo sauce all over penne noodles. It dont only fill you up, it also makes your taste buds happy with that mix of heat and cream. Kids and adults both love this kinda mash-up, especially if you like a bit of a kick in your pasta.
This recipe is super flexible. You can make it for family dinners, game nights, or just when you’re craving something comforty. It’s pretty easy, and you can swap things around to please your guests. With the bright colors and bold flavours, people will be asking for seconds. So grab your stuff and get ready for a pasta party!
What is Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne?
Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne is a fusion dish that brings together hot, tangy Buffalo chicken and rich Alfredo sauce on penne pasta. The buffalo chicken is made from cooked chicken breast that’s shredded and tossed in a spicy sauce of hot sauce and butter. That gives the heat. Then the creamy Alfredo sauce, made with butter, heavy cream, and cheese, cools it down. Penne noodles catch all that sauce in their tubes, so every bite is packed with flavour.
The idea of Buffalo chicken started in Buffalo, New York back in the 1960s. Alfredo sauce came from Rome, Italy, and people in America fell in love with it fast. Putting the two together make a new kind of comfort food that’s really popular now.
Ingredients
Here’s what you need to make this yummy dish:
- Main Ingredients:
- Penne pasta (200g)
- Chicken breast (300g, cooked and shredded)
- Buffalo sauce (½ cup)
- Alfredo sauce (1 cup; you can use store-bought or make your own)
- Extra Stuff:
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
- Cheese – Parmesan or mozzarella (1 cup)
- Chives or green onions (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
When you have those, you’re ready to go. Whether you make homemade Alfredo sauce or use a jar, it’s gonna be good.
Equipment Needed
To cook this right, you’ll want:
- Big Pot: For boiling penne until it’s al dente.
- Skillet: To heat the chicken and mix the sauces.
- Mixing Bowl: To toss everything together evenly.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons: So your portions turn out correct.
Directions
Follow these easy steps:
- Cook the Pasta: Fill a big pot with water and bring to a boil. Add a big pinch of salt. Cook penne for 8–12 minutes, until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prep the Chicken: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add shredded chicken, salt, and pepper. Cook till it’s hot. Then stir in garlic for a minute. Pour in Buffalo sauce and mix so chicken is fully coated.
- Make Alfredo Sauce: (If you want homemade) In another pot, melt butter on medium heat. Pour in cream and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes. Add a bit of garlic, then slowly stir in cheese till it’s smooth. Don’t stop stirring or it might seperate.
- Combine Everything: In a large bowl, add penne, buffalo chicken, and Alfredo sauce. Toss gently so all pasta is covered. Taste and add more salt or pepper if you need it. You can even sprinkle extra cheese.
- Serve & Garnish: Dish out the pasta and top with chopped chives or green onions. Enjoy it hot!
Tips for Perfect Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne
- Add Veggies: Spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli can make it more colorful and healthier.
- Adjust Spice: For less heat, use less Buffalo sauce. For more kick, stir in hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
- Keep Sauce Smooth: Stir Alfredo constantly when you make it to avoid lumps or seperation.
Variations and Substitutions
- Different Pasta: Rigatoni, fettuccine, or spaghetti work too.
- Other Proteins: Try pulled pork, shredded beef, or even tofu for a change.
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based cream and cheese to make it vegan and still tasty.
Pairing Suggestions
- Side Dishes: Garlic bread or a simple green salad goes great with it.
- Drinks: A cold beer or a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc balances the richness.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Store Leftovers: Keep extra pasta in an airtight container in the fridge. It lasts about 3 days.
- Reheat: Add a splash of milk or cream to keep it creamy. Warm it in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, stirring now and then.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Around 600–700 per serving
- Protein: About 35 grams
- Carbs: Around 75 grams
- Fat: Roughly 25 grams
FAQs
- What can I use instead of Alfredo sauce?
You could use another white sauce, a creamy salad dressing, or even blend cashews for a lighter option.
- How do I make it spicier?
Mix in extra Buffalo sauce or a few dashes of hot sauce right before you serve.
- Can I prep it ahead?
Sure, just cook the parts and store separately. Combine them when you’re ready to eat.
- Is it good for meal prep?
Definitely. Divide into portions for easy lunches or dinners.
- Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but make sure it’s fully cooked and shredded before adding the sauce.
Conclusion
Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne is a fun mix of spicy chicken and creamy sauce on penne pasta. It’s perfect for family meals, game days, or any time you want comfort food. Try different swaps to make it your own and share your tasty results with everyone!
Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne
Equipment
- 1 large pot
- 1 large skillet
- 1 strainer
- 1 mixing spoon
- 1 set measuring cups and spoons
- 1 cutting board
Ingredients
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
- ½ cup buffalo wing sauce Adjust based on spice level preference.
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Add more for a thicker sauce.
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
- chopped green onions for garnish Optional.
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Stir in the heavy cream and buffalo wing sauce into the skillet. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently.
- Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked chicken to the sauce, coating the chicken thoroughly with the buffalo Alfredo sauce.
- Combine the drained penne pasta with the buffalo chicken sauce, mixing until the pasta is evenly coated.
- Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
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