I can’t help but smile just thinking about Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne! This dish is like the best of both worlds colliding into one irresistible plate of comfort. Picture this: creamy Alfredo sauce enveloping penne pasta and spicy Buffalo chicken, all topped with a kiss of cheese that makes everything so much better. Seriously, what’s not to love?
I remember the first time I tried this creation—it was a chilly Friday evening, and my friends and I gathered for a movie night. We wanted something hearty and fun, and someone suggested we make this combo. I was a little skeptical at first (Buffalo sauce with Alfredo? Really?), but boy, was I blown away by the explosion of flavors! It’s become a staple in my household since then, and it’s perfect for game day or a cozy night in. Let me tell you, you’re going to want to try this!
What’s in Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne?
Penne Pasta: This tubular pasta is the perfect vehicle for holding onto the creamy sauce and chicken. I usually go for whole wheat penne for a little extra fiber, but any penne will work.
Buffalo Chicken: The star of the show! I love using grilled or rotisserie chicken tossed in my favorite Buffalo sauce for that spicy kick. Feel free to adjust the heat according to your taste.
Alfredo Sauce: A homemade (or store-bought, no judgment here!) creamy blend of butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese is what makes this dish luxurious. If you’re feeling adventurous, add garlic for an extra depth of flavor.
Shredded Cheese: I opt for a mix of mozzarella and cheddar to get that gooey, melty topping that everyone loves. It just takes the dish to a whole new level!
Parsley or Green Onions: A sprinkle of these on top adds a fresh pop of color and flavor—plus, they make it look fancy!
Is Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne Good for You?
Now, let’s talk health! While this dish is undeniably delicious, it’s also a little bit indulgent.
Penne Pasta: This pasta is a great source of carbohydrates, but if you’re watching your carbs, you can try substituting with whole grain or even Zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a lower-carb option.
Buffalo Chicken: Chicken is packed with protein, which is excellent for muscle repair and energy. Just remember to use a moderate amount of Buffalo sauce to keep the dish from getting too spicy.
Alfredo Sauce: Traditional Alfredo sauce can be high in calories and fat due to the heavy cream and cheese. If you’re looking to lighten it up, you can swap heavy cream for half-and-half or even Greek yogurt to maintain that creamy texture without all the calorie guilt.
In conclusion, while this dish may not be the healthiest option, it’s all about balance! A little treat now and then is perfectly fine, especially when it tastes this good.
Ingredients
This recipe serves about 4 people.
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded and tossed in Buffalo sauce
– 1 cup homemade or store-bought Alfredo sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons chopped parsley or sliced green onions (for garnish)
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne?
1. **Cook the Penne:** Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. **Prepare the Chicken:** If you haven’t done so already, shred your cooked chicken and toss it in Buffalo sauce in a bowl until well-coated.
3. **Make the Alfredo Sauce (if home-made):** In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 1/2 cup butter. Add 1 cup of heavy cream and simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. (You can skip this step and use store-bought sauce if you’re short on time!)
4. **Combine Pasta and Chicken:** In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked penne, Buffalo chicken, and Alfredo sauce. Mix until all the pasta is coated in that creamy goodness.
5. **Add the Cheeses:** Fold in the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese, mixing well.
6. **Bake It (optional):** Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with a sprinkle of extra cheese if desired, and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
7. **Garnish and Serve:** Sprinkle chopped parsley or green onions on top before serving for a burst of freshness.
Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Hacks and Tips
– **Heat Levels:** If you want a milder version, use less Buffalo sauce or even a sweeter barbecue sauce for a different twist.
– **Extra Veggies:** Toss in some cooked broccoli or spinach for added nutrition. Kids won’t even notice!
– **Meal Prep:** This dish makes for excellent leftovers. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready for a quick meal.
I really hope you try making this Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne; it’s a game-changer! It recently saved my dinner party from a culinary disaster, and it’s so easy to whip up that it’ll soon become a favorite in your weeknight rotation too. If you give it a shot, let me know how it turns out! Happy cooking!
