After a long week of unoriginal takeout meals, I found myself yearning for something irresistibly comforting yet vibrant. That’s when this Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta became my saving grace. Picture this: the creamy richness of Alfredo sauce blended seamlessly with the tangy kick of buffalo sauce, all tangled with perfectly cooked fettuccini.
I remember sharing this dish with a few friends during a casual dinner, and we were blown away by how a simple combination of ingredients could create such an explosion of flavor. The beauty of this recipe lies not just in its deliciousness but in its ease. In less than 30 minutes, you can bring this bold, restaurant-worthy meal right to your kitchen table, transforming any night into a festive occasion.
Whether you’re trying to impress loved ones or simply craving a homemade dish that breaks the mold of boring routines, this Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta is sure to deliver. Grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!
Why love this Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta?
Quick and Easy: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a delightful dish that rivals any restaurant’s best offerings.
Flavor Explosion: The creamy Alfredo sauce paired with zesty buffalo sauce packs a punch that you and your guests will crave.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for casual dinners or special gatherings, this recipe is sure to impress.
Versatile Ingredients: Use what you have; swap out chicken for shrimp or add your favorite veggies.
Comfort Food Reinvented: This dish combines comfort with excitement, breaking free from traditional pasta recipes.
For more delicious options, don’t miss out on my Top Pasta Dishes!
Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta Ingredients
• Get ready to indulge in beautiful flavors!
For the Pasta
- 1 lb. fettuccini pasta – Choose fresh or dried; it all works perfectly for this dish.
For the Chicken
- 1.5 lbs chicken breast or tenders – Opt for tenders for their tenderness and quicker cooking time.
- 3 tbsp olive oil – This adds a nice richness to the chicken during cooking.
- Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors of the chicken.
For the Sauce
- 6 tbsp butter – The base of your creamy sauce, making everything luscious.
- 8 cloves garlic – Fresh garlic offers a fragrant kick to the sauce; adjust to your taste!
- 1.5 cups heavy cream – This creates the base of your Alfredo sauce, making it extra creamy.
- 1/2 cup half and half or milk – A lighter option if you want to reduce the richness slightly.
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning – Brings a hint of herbaceous flavor to the sauce.
- 1/3 cup buffalo dressing or buffalo sauce – The key ingredient for that signature zesty taste in your Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta.
- 3/4 cup parmesan, divided – Grated fresh parmesan gives a nutty flavor and additional creaminess.
For Garnish
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, minced – A splash of freshness to finish your dish and brighten it up.
With these ingredients at your disposal, you’re all set to create a glorious meal that will satisfy your cravings while impressing your family and friends!
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta
-
Pan-fry chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until it’s golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side. Once done, transfer it to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.
-
Sauté garlic: Lower the heat to medium in the same skillet and add the butter. Let it melt, then add the minced garlic. Stir and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
-
Prepare the sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, half and half, buffalo sauce, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of pepper. Mix everything well and let it come to a gentle simmer.
-
Thicken the sauce: Stir in 1/2 cup of the grated parmesan cheese into the skillet. Whisk until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly, around 3-5 minutes.
-
Cook the fettuccini: While the sauce simmers, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccini according to package instructions until al dente, typically around 8-10 minutes.
-
Combine pasta and sauce: Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked fettuccini directly to the skillet with the sauce.
-
Add pasta water: Pour in 1/3 cup of the starchy pasta water to the skillet, helping the sauce adhere to the fettuccini. Toss everything gently to combine.
-
Finish the dish: Mix in the diced chicken and sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of parmesan cheese on top. Give it a final toss and garnish with minced parsley before serving.
Optional: Serve with extra buffalo sauce on the side for those who love an added kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Fettuccini?
Creating the perfect meal around this creamy and spicy dish can transform a regular dinner into a delightful feast.
- Garlic Bread: This classic accompaniment enhances flavors and soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully. A crunchy slice complements the soft pasta perfectly.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the pasta’s richness. It’s a light, zesty addition that balances the meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini offer a burst of color and nutrition while adding depth to your plate. Toss them with olive oil and Italian herbs before roasting for extra flavor.
- Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy coleslaw brings a refreshing crunch to each bite of your pasta, providing a delightful contrast and a pop of color.
- Sparkling Lemonade: This bubbly drink adds a zesty twist that elevates your dining experience. Its refreshing nature complements the spicy flavors in the pasta beautifully.
- Apple Crisp: End the meal on a sweet note with warm apple crisp. Its comforting, cinnamon-spiced filling pairs perfectly with the richness of buffalo chicken.
- Crispy Potato Wedges: Seasoned and baked until golden, these hearty wedges bring an irresistible crunch alongside the creamy fettuccini, making every bite satisfying.
- Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: For an extra indulgent pairing, creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes enhance the comforting aspect of the dish while maintaining a lovely texture.
- Fruit Salad: A light medley of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness that balances the bold flavors of the pasta, making it a great side option.
- Chilled Rosé Wine: A glass of chilled rosé offers refreshing acidity and fruitiness that compliment the dish’s spiciness, tying the meal together beautifully.
How to Store and Freeze Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Fridge: Store any leftover Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen it if needed.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pasta in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in a skillet, adding some cream to restore the creamy texture.
Airtight Guidance: Make sure to cool the pasta completely before freezing to prevent ice crystals, which can affect texture when reheated.
Reheating: When reheating, be cautious not to overheat; slow and steady will keep the sauce from separating and keep the flavors vibrant.
Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta Variations
Feel free to take this delicious dish to new heights with these fun twists!
- Vegetarian: Substitute chicken with grilled zucchini or mushrooms for a hearty, meat-free version. This keeps the dish flavorful while maintaining creaminess.
- Spicy: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to crank up the heat level a notch. It’s perfect for those who love an extra kick!
- Cheesy: Mix in cream cheese or additional cheddar along with the parmesan for an even richer, cheesy experience that’ll delight cheese lovers.
- Herby: Swap Italian seasoning for fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for an aromatic lift. Fresh herbs bring brightness and elevate flavor!
- Nut-Free: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a nut-free, creamy alternative that adds a subtle sweetness to the dish.
- Low-Carb: Choose zoodles (zucchini noodles) or spaghetti squash as a pasta alternative to create a lower-carb version that’s equally satisfying.
- Creamy & Lighter: Replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt or sour cream to cut down the calories while keeping it creamy and tangy.
- Smoky: Add smoked paprika for a smoky flavor twist. It pairs beautifully with the buffalo sauce and chicken, enhancing depth to every bite.
Explore these variations and make this Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta your own while enjoying every comforting spoonful!
Make Ahead Options
These Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook the chicken and prepare the sauce up to 3 days in advance, which will save precious time on busy weeknights. Simply pan-fry the chicken, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the sauce, just sauté the garlic and combine the cream, buffalo sauce, and seasonings, then let it cool before refrigerating. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce gently, cook the fettuccini fresh, and toss everything together with the chicken for delicious results that are just as comforting as when you made it fresh!
Expert Tips for Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta
- Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Ensure your chicken is cooked through but not overdone; check for a golden-brown crust for added flavor.
- Pasta Timing: Boil fettuccini just until al dente; it will continue cooking in the sauce later. This avoids mushy pasta.
- Cheese Quality: Use freshly grated parmesan cheese instead of pre-grated for a creamier sauce and better flavor.
- Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more pasta water to achieve your desired creamy texture.
- Add Veggies: Mix in fresh spinach or broccoli to elevate your Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta with added color and nutrition.
- Serving Suggestion: Always serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or extra buffalo sauce on the side for a fresh finish that ties everything together.
Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken for my Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta?
Absolutely! Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken breasts or tenders for the best results. Look for plump and moist pieces without any dark spots. If you’re short on time, chicken tenders are great because they cook quickly and remain juicy!
What’s the best way to store leftover Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta?
For sure! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to help restore the creamy texture.
Can I freeze Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, make sure the pasta has cooled completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It will last up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in a skillet over low heat, adding some cream or a bit of pasta water for a creamy consistency.
What can I do if my sauce is too thick?
Don’t worry, this happens sometimes! If your sauce has thickened too much, simply add a splash of pasta water or cream to reach your desired consistency. Stir it in gradually and allow it to simmer for a minute or so until well combined.
Are there any dietary considerations for Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta?
Very much so! This dish contains dairy and gluten. For those with dairy allergies, you might substitute with non-dairy cream or cheese alternatives. Additionally, if someone has gluten sensitivities, you can use gluten-free pasta; just keep an eye on the cooking time!
How can I elevate the flavor of this dish even more?
Absolutely, a great question! Consider adding extra spices like smoked paprika for depth, or toss in veggies such as spinach or bell peppers to jazz up the dish. It not only enhances flavor but also adds nutrition and vibrant color to your Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta!
Irresistible Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until it's golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side. Once done, transfer it to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.
- Lower the heat to medium in the same skillet and add the butter. Let it melt, then add the minced garlic. Stir and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream, half and half, buffalo sauce, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of pepper. Mix everything well and let it come to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in 1/2 cup of the grated parmesan cheese into the skillet. Whisk until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly, around 3-5 minutes.
- While the sauce simmers, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccini according to package instructions until al dente, typically around 8-10 minutes.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked fettuccini directly to the skillet with the sauce.
- Pour in 1/3 cup of the starchy pasta water to the skillet, helping the sauce adhere to the fettuccini. Toss everything gently to combine.
- Mix in the diced chicken and sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of parmesan cheese on top. Give it a final toss and garnish with minced parsley before serving.