Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne Recipe

Name: Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Yield: 5
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb penne pasta (or any pasta of your choice); 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized cubes); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (plus extra for drizzling); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 3/4 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for topping); Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

By funsmagcom@gmail.com

January 22, 2025

0

14

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Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne Recipe

With its creamy, spicy, and savory flavor profile, Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne is a meal that is both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight dinner or preparing it for a gathering, this dish is sure to please everyone. It’s easy to customize with different proteins, sauces, and toppings to suit your tastes. By following the detailed steps and incorporating the tips and variations provided, you can create a meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious.

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Instructions

Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide to preparing Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne:

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Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips or cubes.
Toss with Buffalo Sauce: Once the chicken is sliced, place it in a bowl and toss it with 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce. Set the buffalo chicken aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions (typically around 9-11 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking together.
Drain and Set Aside: Once the pasta is al dente, drain it and set it aside. Make sure to reserve about 1 cup of pasta cooking water, which you can use later to adjust the consistency of the sauce if necessary.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

Start the Roux: In the same skillet you used for cooking the chicken, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the 2 tablespoons of flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes to cook the flour and form a roux. This will help thicken the sauce.
Add the Milk: Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to ensure the mixture is smooth and lump-free. Continue to cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Season the Sauce: Once the sauce has thickened, add the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Whisk to combine. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, and continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce

Add the Pasta: Once the sauce is ready, add the drained penne pasta to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little of the reserved pasta cooking water to loosen it up.
Add the Buffalo Chicken: Gently fold the buffalo chicken into the pasta and sauce mixture, ensuring the chicken is evenly distributed.
Simmer Together: Allow the pasta, chicken, and sauce to simmer together for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the dish to heat through.

Step 5: Serve

Plate the Dish: Serve the Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne in bowls or on a platter.
Garnish: Top with any optional garnishes like crumbled blue cheese, shredded mozzarella, chopped green onions, fresh parsley, or a drizzle of extra buffalo sauce.

Tips for Success

Use High-Quality Buffalo Sauce: The buffalo sauce is a key component of the dish, so be sure to use a flavorful, quality buffalo wing sauce that you enjoy. You can even make your own buffalo sauce if you prefer.
Pasta Consistency: When making the Alfredo sauce, feel free to adjust the thickness by adding a bit of the reserved pasta cooking water. This helps the sauce better adhere to the pasta.
Chicken Substitutes: If you want to change things up, you can replace the chicken with grilled shrimp or sliced sausage for a different flavor.
Spice Level: If you like your dish extra spicy, increase the amount of buffalo sauce or add more cayenne pepper to the chicken seasoning. Conversely, reduce the buffalo sauce if you prefer a milder dish.
Cheese Choices: For a different twist, try adding mozzarella cheese or cheddar cheese for a richer, more indulgent sauce. However, Parmesan is traditional for Alfredo, so it’s recommended for the base flavor.

Variations

1. Vegetarian Version:

You can make this dish vegetarian by swapping the chicken for grilled or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. Alternatively, use tofu or tempeh for a plant-based protein.

2. Dairy-Free Version:

To make this dish dairy-free, use coconut milk or almond milk as a base for the Alfredo sauce and substitute the Parmesan cheese with a non-dairy version or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Ensure you use a dairy-free buffalo sauce as well.

3. Spicy Buffalo Chicken Alfredo:

Increase the amount of buffalo sauce and add some jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the Alfredo sauce for an extra spicy kick.
You could also drizzle extra buffalo sauce on top of the dish before serving.

4. Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Bake:

If you prefer a baked version of this dish, you can layer the buffalo chicken Alfredo pasta in a baking dish, top it with extra cheese (like mozzarella or cheddar), and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Meal Prep and Make-Ahead Options

Meal Prep:

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You can prepare the buffalo chicken and Alfredo sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cook the pasta fresh when ready to assemble, or store cooked pasta in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Assemble the dish just before serving for optimal freshness.

Freezing:

The buffalo chicken Alfredo can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet or microwave. You may need to add a little more milk to bring back the creamy consistency.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is rich and indulgent, so pairing it with light sides will help balance out the meal.

Side Salad: A simple green salad with leafy greens, cucumber, tomato, and a light vinaigrette dressing will provide a refreshing contrast.
Garlic Bread: Serve alongside crispy garlic bread or breadsticks for a comforting side.
Vegetable Sides: Roasted or steamed broccoli or asparagus are excellent ways to add a healthy vegetable to the meal.

Common Troubleshooting

Too Thick Sauce: If the sauce becomes too thick, simply add a bit of the pasta cooking water, milk, or even chicken broth to thin it out to your desired consistency.
Chicken Overcooked: Chicken can dry out if cooked too long. Make sure to use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C), and avoid cooking it past that.
Sauce Lumpy: If your sauce becomes lumpy, don’t panic! Just continue whisking and allow the sauce to cook a bit longer to smooth out. You can also use an immersion blender to puree it for a silky texture.

Creative Ideas for Serving and Presentation

While Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne is already a deliciously indulgent dish, a little creativity in presentation can elevate the experience. Here are some fun and impressive ways to serve and present the dish:

1. Individual Serving Bowls

For a more personalized touch, serve the Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne in individual bowls. This not only makes for a more polished presentation but also ensures that each person gets a good portion of the creamy sauce and buffalo chicken.
You can garnish each bowl with freshly chopped parsley, crumbled blue cheese, and a drizzle of buffalo sauce to make each serving feel special.

2. Family-Style Platter

Serve the entire dish family-style on a large platter for a more casual but still elegant approach. Arrange the penne and chicken on the platter and sprinkle it with cheese, parsley, and green onions.
For extra flair, garnish the platter with small ramekins of extra buffalo sauce and blue cheese for guests to add to their taste.

3. In a Casserole Dish

Transform this dish into a Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Baked Pasta by layering the pasta, sauce, and chicken in a casserole dish. Top with cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend) and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
This is perfect for a potluck, family gathering, or meal prep since it’s easy to serve and reheat.

4. Adding Crispy Toppings

For a crispy contrast, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs on top of the baked dish just before it goes in the oven. The breadcrumbs will crisp up and add a delightful texture that complements the creamy pasta and buffalo chicken.
You can also add crispy fried onions or crispy bacon as a topping for extra crunch and flavor.

5. In a Skillet

Serve the dish directly from a large skillet for a rustic, farmhouse feel. This is a great option for casual dining or entertaining, and it allows the flavors to stay warm while being served at the table.

Pairing Wine and Drinks

The creamy, spicy, and tangy flavors of Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne call for drinks that complement and balance the richness of the dish. Here are some pairing ideas to consider:

1. Wine Pairings

Chardonnay: A full-bodied, oaked Chardonnay has the right balance of creaminess and acidity to cut through the richness of the Alfredo sauce while complementing the buffalo chicken’s spice.
Sauvignon Blanc: If you prefer a lighter, more refreshing wine, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc offers acidity and citrus notes that work well with the dish’s bold flavors.
Zinfandel: For those who enjoy red wine, Zinfandel is a great choice. Its peppery and slightly smoky profile will pair beautifully with the buffalo sauce.

2. Beer Pairings

IPA (India Pale Ale): The bitterness and hoppy flavors of an IPA contrast nicely with the creaminess of the Alfredo sauce, providing a refreshing balance to the richness of the dish.
Amber Ale: A malty Amber Ale brings out the savory flavors in the buffalo chicken while pairing well with the creaminess of the sauce.
Wheat Beer: A smooth and light wheat beer with subtle citrus notes can help mellow the spice from the buffalo sauce, creating a smooth drinking experience alongside the meal.

3. Non-Alcoholic Options

Sparkling Water with Lime: A fizzy, citrusy drink like sparkling water with a slice of lime is perfect for refreshing your palate between bites.
Iced Tea: A glass of unsweetened iced tea or sweet tea can be a good alternative. The slight bitterness of tea balances the richness of the pasta while keeping the flavors fresh.

Reheating:

In the Microwave: Place the desired portion of Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne in a microwave-safe dish. Add a tablespoon of milk or chicken broth to the dish to help loosen the sauce. Cover with a microwave-safe lid and reheat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
On the Stovetop: If you prefer reheating on the stovetop, place the pasta in a large skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of milk or broth and stir frequently until the pasta is heated through and the sauce reaches a creamy consistency again.
In the Oven (for Baked Version): If you baked the dish and have leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the dish with foil to keep the moisture in. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can add extra cheese on top during the last 5 minutes for a fresh melty topping.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

While Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne is relatively easy to make, sometimes things don’t go as planned. Here are some solutions to common issues:

1. Alfredo Sauce is Too Thin

Fix: If your sauce is too thin, you can thicken it by letting it simmer for a few more minutes. If that doesn’t work, you can make a quick slurry with a teaspoon of flour and cold water, then whisk it into the sauce. Alternatively, you can stir in a bit of cream cheese or Parmesan to thicken it.

2. Alfredo Sauce is Too Thick

Fix: If the sauce has thickened too much, simply add a bit of milk or chicken broth to adjust the consistency. Stir constantly until the sauce reaches your desired texture.

3. Chicken Turns Out Dry

Fix: To avoid dry chicken, be sure not to overcook it. Chicken breasts can dry out quickly, so use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, you can cook the chicken on low heat for longer to keep it juicy.

4. Spicy Enough?

Fix: If the dish isn’t spicy enough, add more buffalo sauce or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes to boost the heat. On the other hand, if it’s too spicy, you can balance it out with a dollop of sour cream, blue cheese dressing, or a squeeze of lime juice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! You can replace the buffalo chicken with grilled vegetables, tofu, or tempeh. For a smoky, savory flavor, try using smoked mushrooms or eggplant.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, use rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked grilled chicken. Just toss the chicken with the buffalo sauce and proceed with the recipe as directed.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken, Alfredo sauce, and pasta separately and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply combine everything and heat through.

Can I use other pasta shapes?

Yes, feel free to use penne, rigatoni, fusilli, farfalle, or any other pasta shape you prefer. The key is to choose a pasta that can hold the sauce well.

How do I adjust the spice level?

To make the dish milder, reduce the amount of buffalo sauce and use a milder brand. You can also substitute some of the buffalo sauce with ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing for a creamier, less spicy flavor.

Yield: 5