Description
This Creamy Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne combines the rich, creamy texture of Alfredo sauce with the bold, spicy kick of Buffalo sauce, creating the perfect comfort food fusion. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying!
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, cubed
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup Buffalo sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup milk
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and let rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips.
- Make the Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the Cream Base: Pour in the heavy cream and add the cream cheese. Stir until the cream cheese is fully melted and incorporated.
- Incorporate Cheese: Stir in Parmesan cheese and mix until smooth and creamy.
- Add Buffalo Sauce: Gradually add Buffalo sauce and mix well to blend the flavors. Adjust the quantity based on your heat preference.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce.
- Add Chicken: Stir in the sliced chicken, ensuring every piece is well-coated in the sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese.
- Extra Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or drizzle additional Buffalo sauce before serving.
- Protein Swap: Try shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different twist.
- Veggie Boost: Add sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for added nutrition and texture.
- Cheese Lover’s Edition: Mix in shredded mozzarella or a blend of cheeses for extra creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course, pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Keywords: Buffalo chicken Alfredo, creamy pasta, spicy Alfredo, Buffalo sauce recipes, easy weeknight dinner.