If you are craving a dish that combines creamy richness with a lively kick of spice, Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta is going to steal your heart and your appetite. This glorious pasta creation brings together tender shredded chicken tossed in tangy buffalo sauce, enveloped by a luxurious homemade Alfredo sauce, and perfectly tossed with al dente penne. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm, flavorful hug after a busy day, blending the classic comfort of Italian creamy pasta with the bold, spicy personality of buffalo chicken. Once you dive into this dish, Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta becomes an instant family favorite that you’ll want to make again and again.

Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are delightfully straightforward yet essential for creating the perfect balance in Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta. Each component contributes something special—creaminess, spice, texture, and color—to turn simple pantry staples into a sensational meal.

8 ounces penne pasta: The ideal pasta shape to grip the creamy sauce and buffalo-spiced chicken perfectly.
2 tablespoons butter: The foundation for our Alfredo sauce, adding richness and depth.
2 tablespoons flour: To create a smooth roux that thickens the sauce just right.
2 cups milk: Adds creaminess while keeping the sauce light and silky.
1 cup heavy cream: Elevates the sauce to indulgent, velvety deliciousness.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that stretchy, gooey texture everyone loves.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Packs in savory, nutty flavor to deepen the Alfredo sauce.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings subtle aromatic warmth without overpowering.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Rounds out the flavor profile with gentle sweetness.
1 1/2 cups cooked shredded chicken: The star protein, tender and ready to soak up those bold buffalo flavors.
1/2 cup buffalo sauce: Adds that signature spicy tanginess that defines this dish.
Salt and pepper, to taste: To enhance and balance every component perfectly.
2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional): A fresh pop of color and mild herbaceous brightness for garnish.

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. The salt seasons the pasta from the inside out, enhancing flavor. Add the penne and cook it just until al dente—tender but with a slight bite—so it holds up nicely when combined with the sauce. Once done, drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Alfredo Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter completely. Stir in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about one minute until it becomes a smooth, pale paste. This step is crucial to avoid a floury taste and ensures the sauce thickens beautifully. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, keeping your whisk moving constantly to prevent any lumps from forming. The sauce will begin to thicken as you stir.

Step 3: Add the Cheese and Seasonings

Once your sauce has thickened nicely, stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese so they melt seamlessly into the sauce, making it silky and loaded with cheesy goodness. Add garlic powder and onion powder for an extra hit of savory depth. Keep stirring until the sauce is completely smooth and creamy with no lumps.

Step 4: Mix in the Buffalo Chicken

Now it’s time to bring the bold flavors together by folding in the cooked shredded chicken with the buffalo sauce. This ensures every bite of chicken is saturated with that signature spicy, tangy buffalo taste, perfectly complemented by the creamy sauce. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add your drained pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce, and gently toss to coat every piece of penne in that luscious buffalo Alfredo mixture. This step is where the magic happens—mixing flavors and textures until everything feels like one harmonious dish, ready to be served hot and fresh.

How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta

Garnishes

Freshly chopped parsley is a beautiful and simple garnish that adds a burst of vibrant green color and a mild herbal freshness that cuts through the richness. For another touch, you might sprinkle extra Parmesan or even a pinch of smoked paprika for an inviting aroma and a hint of smoky depth.

Side Dishes

This dish is hearty and filling on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus provides a welcome contrast. Garlic bread or soft dinner rolls also make excellent companions, perfect for mopping up any leftover creamy buffalo sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish, top with more shredded mozzarella, and broil until bubbly and golden brown for a cheesy crust. You can also stuff peppers with Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta for an impressive presentation that’s perfect for dinner parties or cozy family meals.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld together even more overnight, making it great for next-day meals or packing into lunches.

Freezing

You can freeze leftovers if needed, but keep in mind that the texture of creamy Alfredo sauce may slightly change after thawing. Freeze in portioned airtight containers for up to 2 months and thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat your Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if it needs to loosen up. Avoid microwaving at full power to keep the sauce creamy and the chicken tender. Stir frequently to heat everything evenly.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta?

Absolutely! While penne works beautifully because of its shape and texture, fusilli, rotini, or even fettuccine would also make excellent choices to soak up that creamy buffalo sauce.

How spicy is this Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta?

The heat level mostly depends on the buffalo sauce you choose. If you prefer milder dishes, go for a milder buffalo sauce or reduce the quantity slightly. For those who love a spicy kick, use a hotter sauce or add a dash of cayenne pepper.

Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?

Yes! You can use cooked shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. Just make sure it’s cooked and shredded or chopped into bite-sized pieces before mixing into the sauce.

Is this dish gluten-free?

The traditional recipe uses flour and regular penne pasta, which are not gluten-free. To make it gluten-free, you can use gluten-free pasta and substitute the flour with a gluten-free alternative like cornstarch or a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

Can I add vegetables to Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta?

Definitely! Adding spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers is a great way to boost nutrition and add color and texture. Add vegetables early enough to cook them through or toss in leafy greens at the last moment to wilt slightly.

Final Thoughts

Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta truly stands out as a comforting yet exciting meal that brings joy to the dinner table. With its creamy texture, zesty buffalo flavor, and simple ingredients, it is endlessly satisfying and easy to prepare. I encourage you to give this recipe a try — it’s bound to become one of those dishes you go back to whenever you want a cozy, flavorful experience in a bowl.

Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 18 reviews

Author: Harper
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Halal

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Description

Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines creamy Alfredo sauce with spicy buffalo chicken for a perfect balance of richness and heat. Ideal for chilly evenings or family dinners, this pasta recipe brings bold flavors and creamy textures together in a satisfying, crowd-pleasing meal.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Prepare the Creamy Alfredo Sauce: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about a minute until it forms a smooth paste. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
Add the Cheese: Once the sauce begins to thicken, stir in the shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder. Continue stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Mix in the Buffalo Chicken: Fold in the cooked, shredded chicken and the buffalo sauce. Stir well so that every piece of chicken is coated in the spicy, creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and gently toss everything together, ensuring that the pasta is fully coated in the Buffalo Chicken Alfredo sauce.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired. The aroma alone will have everyone racing to the dinner table.

Notes

Feel free to add veggies like spinach or broccoli to make it even heartier.
You can also sprinkle extra mozzarella on top and broil for a few minutes for a cheesy, baked version.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Boiling, sautéing
Cuisine: American