If you’re craving a creamy, cheesy pasta dish with a bold kick of heat, this Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta is the ultimate comfort meal. It combines the best of both worlds — rich, velvety Alfredo sauce and zesty buffalo chicken — for a dish that’s indulgent, satisfying, and bursting with flavor. Every bite is a perfect harmony of creamy cheese, spicy sauce, and tender pasta, creating an irresistible dinner that’s sure to impress.
This easy dinner recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or when you simply want to elevate your pasta night. Using simple, affordable ingredients, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes and delivers restaurant-quality flavor from your own kitchen. If you love easy dinner ideas, family comfort food, or budget-friendly meals, this recipe is your next must-try favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes — perfect for busy weeknights.
- Creamy & Spicy: A rich Alfredo sauce with the tangy heat of buffalo chicken.
- Family Comfort Food: A dish that satisfies both pasta and spice lovers.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level to suit your family’s taste.
- Budget-Friendly Ingredients: Everyday items you likely already have in your kitchen.
- Perfect for Leftovers: Reheats beautifully for next-day lunches or meal prep recipes.
Ingredient Breakdown
Penne Pasta (8 ounces): The sturdy shape holds up well under creamy sauces, allowing every bite to soak up the Alfredo and buffalo flavors. You can also use fettuccine or rotini if preferred.
Butter (2 tablespoons): The base for your roux — adds richness and helps create that signature silky sauce.
Flour (2 tablespoons): Combines with butter to thicken the sauce and give it body.
Milk (2 cups): Provides the creamy texture without making the sauce too heavy.
Heavy Cream (1 cup): Adds extra richness for a luscious, velvety finish.
Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup, shredded): Melts beautifully and gives that irresistible cheesy pull every pasta lover adores.
Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, grated): Brings salty, nutty depth to the Alfredo sauce — a must for authentic flavor.
Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon): Infuses subtle savory flavor throughout the sauce.
Onion Powder (1 teaspoon): Complements the garlic and balances the richness of the cream.
Shredded Chicken (1½ cups, cooked): Use rotisserie chicken for convenience; it absorbs the buffalo flavor perfectly.
Buffalo Sauce (½ cup): The signature ingredient that transforms creamy Alfredo into a spicy masterpiece. Adjust to taste depending on your heat preference.
Salt & Pepper (to taste): Simple seasoning to balance and highlight all the flavors.
Fresh Parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): Optional garnish that adds freshness and a pop of color to the finished dish.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Pasta
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly firm pasta ensures it won’t become mushy once mixed with sauce.
- Warm the Buffalo Sauce Before Mixing: Helps blend evenly with the creamy Alfredo and prevents curdling.
- Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese can make sauces grainy; grating it yourself ensures smooth results.
- Add Cheese Slowly: Stir in cheese gradually to help it melt evenly and prevent clumping.
- Control the Heat: Start with less buffalo sauce, taste, and adjust to your desired spice level.
- Finish with Fresh Parsley: Adds color, freshness, and balance to the rich, spicy sauce.
Ingredient Swaps or Variations
- Low-Carb Option: Replace pasta with spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly dinner idea.
- Gluten-Free Swap: Use gluten-free pasta and flour to keep this dish allergy-friendly.
- Extra Cheesy Twist: Stir in cream cheese or Monterey Jack for a richer, thicker sauce.
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and use roasted cauliflower or sautéed mushrooms instead.
- Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken: Cook your buffalo chicken in the air fryer for crispy edges and extra flavor.
- Add Veggies: Broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers add texture, nutrients, and color.
Serving Suggestions
This Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta stands alone as a full meal, but it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve it alongside:
- Garlic Bread or Breadsticks: Perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
- Caesar Salad or Garden Salad: The crisp greens balance the richness of the dish.
- Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, zucchini, or asparagus make a healthy pairing.
- Creamy Coleslaw: A cool, tangy contrast to the spicy pasta.
For parties or game days, serve smaller portions as a main dish alongside buffalo wings or mozzarella sticks for a full comfort-food spread.
Make Ahead + Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
- Freeze: Allow the pasta to cool completely, then freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Meal Prep Idea: Cook the pasta and sauce separately; combine and heat when ready to serve. Keeps the pasta from getting too soft.
- Leftover Hack: Use extra sauce over baked potatoes, steamed vegetables, or as a dip for breadsticks.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the sauce a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Reheat slowly and toss with freshly cooked pasta.
Cultural or Historical Notes
Buffalo sauce originated in Buffalo, New York, as the star of the famous Buffalo wings served at Anchor Bar in the 1960s. Over time, this spicy, tangy sauce made its way into countless dishes — from pizzas to dips — and now into pasta! Combining it with Alfredo sauce brings together two iconic American comfort food traditions: Italian-style cream sauce and classic buffalo heat. This fusion results in a truly American favorite that blends creamy indulgence with bold flavor — perfect for anyone who loves a little spice in their comfort food.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this pasta ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead, then reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta before serving.
Can I adjust the spice level?
Absolutely. Add more or less buffalo sauce depending on your preference. You can also mix mild and hot sauces for balance.
What’s the best type of chicken to use?
Shredded rotisserie chicken saves time, but grilled or baked chicken breast works great, too.
How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
Avoid overheating after adding the buffalo sauce and cheese. Keep the heat on low to medium and stir continuously.
Can I make it healthier?
Yes. Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, use whole wheat pasta, and cut back slightly on the cheese for a lighter version.
Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Fold in the cooked shredded chicken and buffalo sauce. Stir well so that every piece of chicken is coated in the spicy, creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- 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 immediately, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
