Hey y’all! If you’re looking for a dish that’s a perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and downright comforting, look no further than Buffalo Chicken Alfredo. This dish is a surefire crowd-pleaser, making it a great choice for weeknight dinners, game-day gatherings, or anytime you’re craving something hearty. Ready to dive into deliciousness? Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Buffalo Chicken Alfredo
- It’s a simple one-pot meal, making cleanup a breeze.
- The creamy alfredo sauce pairs perfectly with spicy buffalo chicken.
- Customizable with your favorite veggies or pasta types.
- Packs a flavorful punch that’s both satisfying and comforting.
- Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Buffalo Chicken
In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the shredded chicken and buffalo sauce, stirring until the chicken is well-coated and heated through. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked fettuccine and buffalo chicken to the alfredo sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- If you prefer less heat, adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to your liking. You can learn more about different types of buffalo sauces here.
- Grate your own Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- For a lighter version, swap heavy cream for half-and-half.
Variations
- Vegetarian Buffalo Alfredo: Substitute chicken with sautéed mushrooms or diced tofu.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles.
- Extra Creamy Version: Add 1/2 cup of cream cheese to the alfredo sauce.
Required Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Skillet for cooking chicken
- Small saucepan for alfredo sauce
- Whisk
- Colander
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan or microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.
Suggested Pairings
Serve Buffalo Chicken Alfredo with a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad for a well-rounded meal.
Pro Tips
- For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the alfredo sauce.
- Use freshly ground black pepper for enhanced flavor.
- Learn more about perfect pasta cooking techniques here.
FAQ
Can I use store-bought alfredo sauce?
Yes, you can use store-bought sauce for convenience, but making it from scratch enhances the flavor significantly.
What type of pasta works best with this recipe?
Fettuccine is traditional, but penne or linguine also work well to hold the creamy sauce.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, substitute dairy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.