This Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta brings together spicy chicken and creamy sauce for a comforting dish everyone will love. It’s quick to make and warms you up in no time!
Who doesn’t enjoy a little kick with their pasta? I like to add extra cheese because, let’s face it, you can never have too much cheese! 🧀
Making this recipe is a breeze! Just cook the pasta, stir in the sauce, and top it with chicken. Dinner is ready before you know it, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I chose elbow macaroni for that classic comfort food feel. Penne works just as well! If you’re out of both, try any pasta shape you have, like rotini or fusilli. The key is to choose a shape that will hold onto the sauce.
Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken saves time and tastes great, but any cooked chicken will work. Leftover grilled or baked chicken can be used. You could also swap in shredded tofu for a vegetarian option!
Buffalo Sauce: Adjust the spice to your liking with buffalo sauce. If you prefer a milder flavor, combine half the amount with ranch dressing or creamy blue cheese dressing. For a spicy kick, add some hot sauce or extra buffalo sauce!
Alfredo Sauce: Store-bought is convenient, but homemade gives you control over the flavor. If you’re short on time, don’t hesitate to use a jarred sauce. Vegan cream or cashew cream can replace traditional Alfredo for a dairy-free version!
Cheeses: I love the blend of cheddar and mozzarella for that gooey texture. If cheese is a problem, consider nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or Daiya cheese for a dairy-free option.
How Can I Ensure My Pasta Is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking the pasta just right is important for this dish. Aim for al dente so that it doesn’t turn mushy after baking. Here are some tips to help you out:
- Follow the package instructions carefully, and set a timer a minute or two before the time is up.
- Take a piece out and taste it; it should be firm yet tender, with a bit of a bite!
- Don’t forget to drain the pasta but avoid rinsing it. The starch helps the sauce stick better.
How Do I Mix Everything Without Making a Mess?
Combining all the ingredients smoothly helps distribute flavors. Here’s how to do that:
- Use a big mixing bowl to give yourself plenty of room.
- Start by mixing the chicken with the sauces and seasonings first, then add the pasta.
- Gently fold the pasta in instead of stirring vigorously to keep it intact. A spatula or large spoon works wonders here.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Sauce:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni or penne pasta
- 1 cup buffalo sauce (adjust according to preference)
- 1 cup Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Chicken and Cheese:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings and Garnish:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’re looking at around 45-50 minutes from start to finish. Just the right time for a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your dish will bake evenly and the cheese will melt beautifully.
2. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—firm to the bite but not hard. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
3. Mix the Chicken and Sauces:
In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, Alfredo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s nice and coated.
4. Combine Pasta and Chicken Mixture:
Now, add the cooked pasta to the chicken sauce mixture. Stir gently until the pasta is fully covered in all that deliciousness!
5. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and pour the pasta mixture into it. Spread it out evenly. Now comes the best part—top it all off with the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake It Up:
Place your dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly. It’ll smell amazing!
7. Serve and Garnish:
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. If you’d like, sprinkle some chopped green onions or parsley on top for a fresh touch. Now, dig in and enjoy your delicious Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta!
Can I Use Different Pasta Shapes for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While elbows and penne work best, you can try other shapes like rotini, fusilli, or even shells. Just make sure to follow the cooking time specified on the package for the type of pasta you choose!
What If I Don’t Have Time to Cook Chicken?
No problem! You can use a store-bought rotisserie chicken for convenience. Simply shred the meat from the chicken, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time without the hassle of cooking!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the microwave or oven. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of milk or cream to bring back some of the creaminess!
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier or Milder?
Absolutely! Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to your spice preference. For a milder version, reduce the buffalo sauce or use a milder sauce like BBQ. If you want more heat, feel free to add extra buffalo sauce or even a dash of hot sauce to the mix!
