If you love the irresistible kick of buffalo sauce and the ultra-creamy comfort of Alfredo pasta, Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne is about to become your new go-to dish. This recipe brings together tender chicken bites, tangy buffalo wing sauce, rich cream, and oozy cheese—all tossed with perfectly cooked penne for the ultimate weeknight indulgence. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving something seriously satisfying, you’ll want this bold, flavorful pasta in your regular rotation!

Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne lies in its simple ingredients, each playing a key role to build layers of flavor and luscious texture. With just a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh components, you’ll have everything you need to make this dish showstoppingly delicious.

Penne pasta: Its ridges cling to the creamy buffalo Alfredo sauce, making every bite extra flavorful.
Olive oil: Adds a subtle, savory base for sautéing the chicken and brings everything together.
Boneless skinless chicken breast: Lean, juicy, and perfect for soaking up spicy buffalo sauce.
Salt & black pepper: Essential seasonings to build savory depth right from the start.
Garlic cloves: Freshly minced garlic infuses the sauce with aromatic warmth and punch.
Buffalo wing sauce: The star ingredient that delivers that signature tangy heat—adjust to your spice preference!
Heavy cream: Turns the sauce incredibly rich and silky, balancing out the spicy buffalo kick.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds salty-savory flavor and helps thicken the Alfredo sauce.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts in for that dreamy, stretchy cheese pull in every serving.
Unsalted butter: Gives the sauce a smooth, velvety finish and layers on more buttery flavor.
Chopped fresh parsley: Brightens everything up and adds a pop of fresh color at the end.
Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who live for even more heat—totally customizable!

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add the penne and cook according to the package directions until just al dente—you want a little bite left, since the pasta will soak up more flavor once tossed with the sauce. Drain the noodles and set them aside, but don’t forget to reserve a ladle of pasta water in case your sauce needs loosening later.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your chicken pieces, then season generously with salt and black pepper. Sauté for five to six minutes until beautifully golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside—you’ll add it back in later for that ultimate Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne experience!

Step 3: Build the Sauce

In the same skillet (no need to wash it—you want those tasty brown bits), reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about a minute, just until fragrant. Pour in the buffalo wing sauce and heavy cream, stirring to combine, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Whisk in the Parmesan cheese until your sauce looks creamy and slightly thickened.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken and drained penne to the skillet. Toss everything together so that every pasta piece is cloaked in spicy, cheesy Alfredo glory. Stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese and keep stirring gently until the cheese is melted through and the sauce coats the pasta perfectly. If your sauce seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until you reach your ideal consistency.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a fresh, bright finish. Add red pepper flakes if you’re craving extra kick. Dish out the steamy Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne straight from the skillet and get ready for major applause at the table!

How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne

Garnishes

The little extras make all the difference! Finish each plate with a generous shower of chopped parsley to bring a fresh, herbal lift, or go bold with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like heat. For next-level flavor, a little extra grated Parmesan cheesed is always welcome on top of your Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne.

Side Dishes

Pair this rich, spicy pasta with something crisp and refreshing—think a big green salad dressed simply with a lemony vinaigrette. Garlic bread is also a crowd favorite, perfect for mopping up every last bit of creamy sauce. You could even add roasted broccoli or asparagus for a colorful, veggie-packed side!

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne in a big family-style dish in the center of the table for a dramatic entrance. For parties, try spooning the pasta into small ramekins or bowls for individual servings. If you want a twist, pile leftovers into a baked pasta casserole topped with extra mozzarella and broil until bubbly.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let your Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cheesy sauce stays surprisingly creamy and the flavors get even deeper overnight!

Freezing

You can freeze this pasta, though the texture may change a little once thawed. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, then stash them in the freezer for up to two months. Let the pasta thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Warm leftovers gently in a skillet or saucepan over medium-low heat. If the sauce is too thick, splash in some milk or reserved pasta water to bring back its creamy consistency. A quick microwave works in a pinch—just be sure to stir between 30-second intervals. Add a fresh sprinkle of parsley to revive the flavors!

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie or leftover chicken in Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne?

Absolutely! Shred or cube cooked chicken and stir it in when you add the penne to the skillet—it’s a fantastic shortcut and gives great flavor.

Is there a way to make this dish less spicy?

Yes—simply use less buffalo sauce, or choose a mild variety. You can also stir in a bit more cream or extra mozzarella to tame the heat, making Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne perfect for the whole family.

Can I make Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne gluten-free?

Definitely! Just substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta for the regular penne, and make sure your buffalo wing sauce doesn’t contain any hidden gluten.

What’s the best way to add vegetables?

This pasta welcomes additions like spinach, sautéed bell peppers, or broccoli florets. Toss them in with the pasta and chicken, or cook them separately and stir them in at the end for extra color and nutrients.

Can I prepare Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne ahead of time for a party?

For entertaining, assemble the pasta up to the point of adding mozzarella, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to serve, gently reheat, stir in the cheese until melted, and finish with your garnishes so everyone gets the freshest flavor.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so joyful about sharing a bubbling skillet of Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne with the people you love—it’s cozy, bold, and absolutely unforgettable. Give it a try the next time you want to spice things up in your kitchen, and watch it disappear in a flash!

Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne Recipe

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4.7 from 24 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the creamy and spicy flavors of Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne. This delicious dish combines tender chicken, tangy buffalo sauce, and rich alfredo sauce over perfectly cooked penne pasta.

Ingredients

Scale

Penne Pasta:

12 ounces penne pasta

Chicken:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Sauce:

3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup buffalo wing sauce
2 cups heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

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Instructions

Cook Penne Pasta: Cook penne pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Sauté Chicken: Heat olive oil, sauté seasoned chicken until golden and cooked through. Set aside.
Prepare Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter, add garlic, buffalo sauce, and heavy cream. Simmer, then whisk in Parmesan cheese until smooth.
Combine Ingredients: Add pasta and chicken back to the skillet, toss to coat. Stir in mozzarella cheese until melted and creamy.
Serve: Garnish with parsley and red pepper flakes. Serve hot.

Notes

For a lighter version, use half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream.
Adjust buffalo sauce to taste for milder or spicier flavor.
Pairs well with garlic bread or a crisp green salad.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American