Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne

Indulge in the perfect fusion of creamy and fiery flavors with this Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne. This recipe marries the velvety richness of classic Alfredo sauce with the bold kick of buffalo chicken, creating a memorable pasta dish that transforms ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary. The combination of al dente penne, tender shredded chicken, and a luxurious cheese sauce infused with buffalo flavors creates an irresistible harmony that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

I've made this pasta countless times for family gatherings, and it never fails to spark joy around the dinner table. My teenage son, who's usually picky about spicy foods, actually requests this dish regularly - that's how perfectly balanced the flavors are.

Essential Ingredients Guide

• Penne Pasta: Choose high-quality pasta with ridges that will hold onto the creamy sauce in every bite.
• Heavy Cream: Creates the luxuriously smooth base for your sauce - avoid substituting with lighter alternatives as they may separate.
• Buffalo Sauce: Select a reliable brand with balanced heat and tanginess, Frank's RedHot works exceptionally well.
• Parmesan and Mozzarella: Fresh-grated cheese melts more smoothly and provides better flavor than pre-shredded varieties.
• Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or freshly poached chicken breasts for optimal texture.

Creating Your Buffalo Chicken Alfredo

Pasta Perfection:

Bring a generously salted pot of water to a rolling boil. Add your penne and cook until it reaches the perfect al dente texture, usually about 11 minutes, but taste test to ensure ideal firmness.

Sauce Creation:

In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet, melt the butter until it becomes foamy but not browned. Add minced garlic and let it release its aromatic oils for exactly one minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

Cream Integration:

Pour in the heavy cream while whisking continuously. Add buffalo sauce and Italian seasoning, allowing the mixture to simmer gently until it starts to thicken and coat the back of a spoon.

Cheese Incorporation:

Gradually sprinkle in both cheeses while stirring in a figure-eight pattern. Continue until the sauce becomes silky smooth and coats your spoon like velvet.

Final Assembly:

Fold in your shredded chicken, ensuring each piece is enrobed in the sauce. Add the cooked penne, tossing gently until every piece is generously coated.

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My family particularly loves the buffalo sauce element - it adds that perfect kick without overwhelming the dish. I've found that Frank's RedHot Buffalo sauce provides the most consistent results, and its flavor has become our gold standard.

Perfect Pairings

Transform this dish into a complete meal by serving it alongside garlic bread and a fresh Caesar salad. For an elegant touch, consider adding roasted Brussels sprouts or asparagus as a side dish.

Customize Your Creation

Consider swapping the chicken for grilled shrimp or adding sautéed mushrooms for a different texture profile. For a lighter version, try using half-and-half instead of heavy cream, though the sauce won't be quite as rich.

Keep It Fresh

Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of cream and warm slowly over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain the sauce's creamy texture.

I've prepared countless pasta dishes over the years, but this Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne holds a special place in my heart. It's the perfect balance of comfort and excitement, tradition and innovation. Every time I serve it, I'm reminded of why simple, well-executed recipes often make the most memorable meals.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ How spicy is this dish?

It's moderately spicy, but you can easily adjust by using more or less buffalo sauce to match your taste.

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken works great and saves time. Just shred it and add to the sauce.

→ What can I serve with this?

A simple green salad or roasted vegetables balance the rich, creamy pasta perfectly.

→ Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or your favorite meat alternative.

→ How do I reheat leftovers?

Warm gently on stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk if sauce is too thick.