Description
Creamy buffalo chicken alfredo penne brings fiery comfort to classic Italian pasta with a spicy American twist. Cheesy, zesty sauce and tender chicken create a bold dinner experience you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
Pasta and Cheese:
- 1 lb (450g) penne pasta
- 1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese
Sauce and Seasonings:
- 1 1/2 cups (360ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (240ml) buffalo sauce
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Boil penne pasta in salted water until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain thoroughly and set aside, reserving a small amount of pasta water for potential sauce adjustment.
- Heat butter in a large skillet over medium temperature, creating a light golden base. Introduce minced garlic and sauté until aromatic and slightly translucent, approximately 45-60 seconds.
- Pour heavy cream into the skillet, allowing it to reach a gentle simmer. Gradually incorporate Parmesan cheese, whisking continuously to create a smooth, velvety texture. Introduce buffalo sauce, blending until the mixture achieves a consistent, creamy consistency.
- Season the sauce with salt and pepper, adjusting flavors to personal preference. Fold shredded chicken into the buffalo Alfredo sauce, ensuring each piece is evenly coated and heated through.
- Add drained pasta directly into the skillet, gently tossing to coat every penne piece with the spicy, creamy sauce. If needed, splash reserved pasta water to achieve desired sauce consistency.
- Transfer the buffalo chicken Alfredo to serving dishes. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley across the top for a vibrant garnish and added freshness. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- Perfectly cook pasta al dente by salting water generously and testing texture before draining to ensure ideal texture.
- Balance buffalo sauce heat by adjusting quantity based on personal spice tolerance, using mild or hot sauce varieties.
- Create a lighter version by substituting heavy cream with Greek yogurt or half-and-half for reduced calorie content.
- Enhance protein options by using rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken, or plant-based alternatives like tofu for dietary flexibility.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 613 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 890 mg
- Fat: 34 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg