Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne: Prepare to have your taste buds tantalized! Imagine the creamy, comforting embrace of classic Alfredo, but with a fiery kick that will leave you craving more. This isn’t just pasta; it’s an experience, a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. I’m so excited to share this recipe with you!

While the exact origins of combining buffalo chicken with Alfredo sauce are somewhat shrouded in mystery, it’s safe to say this culinary creation is a modern marvel. It cleverly marries the all-American love for spicy buffalo wings with the timeless elegance of Italian pasta. Think of it as a delicious fusion, a testament to the ever-evolving nature of food and our willingness to experiment with bold and exciting combinations.

People adore Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne for its sheer deliciousness and satisfying texture. The creamy Alfredo sauce perfectly complements the tangy, spicy buffalo chicken, creating a harmonious balance that’s both comforting and exciting. The penne pasta provides a delightful chewiness, while the tender chicken adds a protein-packed punch. It’s also incredibly convenient to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party dish. Trust me, once you try this Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne, it will become a staple in your recipe repertoire!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound penne pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (I prefer Frank’s RedHot)
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• 1/4 cup grated Romano cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• Blue cheese crumbles, for garnish (optional)
• Green onions, thinly sliced, for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Chicken:

1. First, let’s get that chicken ready! In a medium bowl, toss the bite-sized chicken pieces with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated with the spices. This is where the flavor party starts!
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the seasoned chicken. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside. Be sure to stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
3. Once the chicken is cooked, pour the buffalo wing sauce over it. Toss to coat the chicken evenly in the sauce. Reduce the heat to low and let the chicken simmer in the buffalo sauce for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. This step is crucial for that authentic buffalo chicken taste.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. We’ll add it back in later, but for now, it’s time to focus on the creamy Alfredo sauce.

Cooking the Pasta:

1. While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Adding salt to the water is important because it seasons the pasta from the inside out.
2. Once the water is boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Al dente means “to the tooth” in Italian, so the pasta should be firm but cooked through.
3. Before draining the pasta, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water. This starchy water is liquid gold! We’ll use it later to help the Alfredo sauce cling to the pasta and create a creamy, emulsified sauce.
4. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside. Don’t rinse the pasta, as the starch on the surface helps the sauce adhere better.

Making the Alfredo Sauce:

1. Now, let’s create the heart of this dish: the Alfredo sauce! In the same skillet you used to cook the chicken (no need to wash it, those leftover chicken bits will add extra flavor!), melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Reduce the heat to low and let the cream simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
4. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese and Romano cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. The key here is to whisk constantly to prevent the cheese from clumping.
5. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. Remember, we want a sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
6. Season the Alfredo sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Be mindful of the salt, as the Parmesan cheese is already quite salty.

Combining Everything:

1. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce. Make sure every strand of pasta is covered in that creamy goodness!
2. Add the buffalo chicken back to the skillet and gently toss to combine. Be careful not to overmix, as you don’t want to break up the chicken too much.
3. Continue to cook for a minute or two, allowing the flavors to meld together and the pasta to heat through.

Serving and Garnishing:

1. Serve the Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne immediately. This dish is best enjoyed hot, right after it’s made.
2. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, blue cheese crumbles (if desired), and thinly sliced green onions. These garnishes add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
3. Offer extra grated Parmesan cheese at the table for those who want an extra cheesy kick.

Tips and Variations:

1. Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper and buffalo wing sauce to control the spice level. If you like it extra spicy, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
2. Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese in the Alfredo sauce. Asiago, Pecorino Romano, or even a little bit of mozzarella can add interesting flavors.
3. Vegetables: Add some vegetables to the dish for extra nutrients and flavor. Broccoli florets, bell peppers, or even spinach would be great additions. Sauté the vegetables before adding the chicken.
4. Chicken Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of chicken, you can substitute it with shrimp, sausage, or even tofu. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
5. Cream Cheese: For an extra creamy and tangy Alfredo sauce, try adding 2-4 ounces of cream cheese to the sauce while it’s simmering.
6. Make Ahead: While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken and Alfredo sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them with the cooked pasta just before serving.
7. Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave. You may need to add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
8. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free penne pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
9. Lower-Fat Option: Use light cream cheese and skim milk instead of heavy cream to reduce the fat content of the Alfredo sauce.
10. Adding a Kick: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the Alfredo sauce. It adds a savory umami note that complements the other flavors beautifully.
11. Lemon Zest: A little bit of lemon zest can brighten up the Alfredo sauce and add a touch of freshness. Just be careful not to add too much, as it can overpower the other flavors.
12. Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Adding chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the dish can add a burst of intense flavor and a chewy texture.
13. Bacon: Crispy bacon bits are always a welcome addition to any pasta dish. Sprinkle them on top as a garnish for extra flavor and crunch.
14. Mushroom: Sautéed mushrooms can add an earthy and savory element to the dish.
15. Herbs: Experiment with different herbs in the Alfredo sauce. Fresh basil, oregano, or thyme would all be delicious additions.

Conclusion:

This Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! The creamy, comforting Alfredo sauce, kicked up with the tangy heat of buffalo sauce and the savory goodness of chicken, creates a symphony of tastes that will leave you craving more. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a regular in your dinner rotation. It’s the perfect balance of comfort food and exciting flavors, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion. But why is this recipe a must-try? Because it’s incredibly easy to make, even on a busy weeknight. You can have a restaurant-quality meal on the table in under an hour, without sacrificing flavor or quality. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable! Don’t like penne? Use rotini, farfalle, or even spaghetti. Prefer a milder flavor? Reduce the amount of buffalo sauce. Want to add some veggies? Broccoli florets, bell peppers, or spinach would be fantastic additions. The possibilities are truly endless!

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

For a complete meal, serve this Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad. The cool, crisp salad provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta. You could also sprinkle some extra blue cheese crumbles or chopped green onions on top for added flavor and visual appeal. Looking for variations? Here are a few ideas to get you started: * Spicy Level: Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to your liking. For a milder flavor, use a mild buffalo sauce or reduce the amount. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce. * Chicken Options: Use leftover rotisserie chicken for an even quicker meal. You can also use grilled chicken or even shredded chicken from a slow cooker. * Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with roasted cauliflower or chickpeas for a vegetarian-friendly version. * Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses in the Alfredo sauce. Parmesan cheese is a classic choice, but you can also try adding some mozzarella, provolone, or even a little bit of pepper jack for a spicy kick. * Crusty Topping: Before baking, sprinkle the top with panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter and Parmesan cheese for a crispy, golden-brown crust. This Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to get creative in the kitchen and create a dish that’s uniquely yours. It’s a guaranteed hit with family and friends, and it’s sure to become a new favorite. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and get cooking! I’m confident that you’ll love this recipe as much as I do. And when you do, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. I’d love to hear what you think and any variations you tried. Happy cooking! I can’t wait to hear about your Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne success! Let me know if you added any special ingredients or made any interesting substitutions. Your feedback helps other cooks and inspires new ideas. Don’t be shy – share your culinary adventures!

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