Buffalo Chicken Alfredo is a delightful fusion of creamy, rich Alfredo sauce and the spicy kick of classic Buffalo chicken, creating a comforting dish that’s perfect for cozy evenings. This recipe combines the best of both worlds—tender, juicy chicken tossed in a zesty Buffalo sauce, enveloped in a silky Alfredo sauce that clings perfectly to perfectly cooked pasta.
In the culinary landscape of American comfort food, Buffalo wings have made their mark since their invention in Buffalo, New York, in the 1960s. The beloved spicy sauce quickly became a staple in bars and homes alike. As food enthusiasts began experimenting, the concept of pairing these bold flavors with a creamy sauce emerged, giving birth to the Buffalo Chicken Alfredo.
The unique blend of flavors in this dish comes from the combination of tangy hot sauce and rich, buttery Alfredo sauce. The pasta serves as the perfect canvas, soaking up all those vibrant flavors while providing a satisfying texture. Cooking techniques play a crucial role too; to achieve that perfect Alfredo sauce, the key is to use high-quality ingredients and to be patient as you let the sauce thicken and envelop your chicken and pasta. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and joy to any table, making it a favorite for gatherings or a special treat on a weeknight.
Buffalo Chicken Alfredo
Description
Indulge in the rich flavors of tender chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and a zesty Buffalo sauce that brings warmth to every bite. Perfect for dinner any night!
Ingredients
Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Ingredients
Instructions
Cook the Chicken
-
Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a dash of garlic powder. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken.For an extra kick, you can also add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. -
Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. -
Shred the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Once cooled, shred the chicken using two forks.This can be done ahead of time to save on prep work.
Prepare the Pasta
-
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook your choice of pasta (fettuccine, penne, or rotini work well) according to package instructions until al dente.Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining, as it can help adjust the sauce consistency later.
Make the Alfredo Sauce
-
Start the Sauce Base
In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.Be careful not to burn the garlic; it should be golden, not brown. -
Add Cream and Cheese
Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.If the sauce is too thick, use a bit of the reserved pasta water to thin it to your desired consistency. -
Incorporate Buffalo Sauce
Stir in 1/2 cup of your favorite buffalo sauce, adjusting to taste for spice level. Mix until well combined.Feel free to add more or less buffalo sauce depending on how spicy you like it!
Combine and Serve
-
Mix Everything Together
Add the cooked pasta and shredded chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy buffalo sauce.If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. -
Garnish and Enjoy
Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.A sprinkle of fresh cilantro can add a fresh twist!
Note
- For a creamier sauce, use heavy cream instead of half-and-half or milk.
- Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a richer flavor and better texture.
- Consider using rotisserie chicken to save time; just shred it and mix it into the sauce.
- For extra heat, incorporate more hot sauce or add crushed red pepper flakes to taste.
- If you prefer a lighter dish, substitute cauliflower pasta or zucchini noodles.
- Toasting the garlic in olive oil before adding the cream enhances its flavor.
- Incorporate sautéed spinach or broccoli for added nutrition and color.
- Use a blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheese for a cheesier finish.
- If you want a tangy kick, add a splash of lemon juice at the end of cooking.
- Always reserve a bit of pasta cooking water to adjust the sauce's consistency if needed.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stove to avoid separating the sauce.
- Pair with a crisp side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.