Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Baked Ziti

If you’re craving a dish that brings together the spicy kick of buffalo chicken with the creamy richness of Alfredo sauce, then this Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Baked Ziti is about to become your new favorite comfort meal. Imagine tender ziti pasta enveloped in a luscious blend of heavy cream and cheeses, punctuated by shredded chicken tossed in tangy buffalo wing sauce. Baked to bubbly perfection, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings alike.

Why This Recipe Works

This Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Baked Ziti hits all the right notes because it masterfully balances bold and creamy flavors. The spicy buffalo wing sauce coats the shredded chicken, providing a flavorful punch that contrasts beautifully with the smooth, velvety Alfredo base. The combination of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses gives the dish that irresistible cheesy stretch and depth of flavor. Using ziti pasta ensures each bite carries enough sauce and cheese, while baking everything together allows the flavors to meld and the top to develop a golden, crispy crust. Plus, this recipe is straightforward and adaptable, making it perfect for cooks of all skill levels.

Your Shopping Guide

• Ziti pasta (1 pound): Look for good-quality dried pasta for the best texture.
• Cooked chicken (2 cups shredded): Rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked grilled chicken works well.
• Buffalo wing sauce (1 cup): Choose your favorite brand or homemade for a personal touch.
• Heavy cream (1 cup): Essential for creating the rich Alfredo sauce.
• Mozzarella cheese (2 cups shredded): Use whole-milk mozzarella for creaminess and meltability.
• Parmesan cheese (1 cup grated): Freshly grated Parmesan adds a sharp, nutty flavor.
• Olive oil (1 tablespoon): For sautéing garlic and adding depth.
• Garlic (2 cloves minced): Fresh garlic delivers the best aroma and taste.
• Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the savory profile.
• Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Adds an extra layer of garlic flavor.
• Italian seasoning (1/2 teaspoon): A blend of herbs that gives the dish a classic Italian flair.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, balancing all flavors.
• Green onions (chopped): For fresh, crisp garnish.

Equipment Breakdown

• Large pot: For boiling the ziti pasta to al dente.
• Large skillet or sauté pan: To cook garlic and combine sauces.
• 9×13-inch baking dish: Perfect size for layering and baking the ziti.
• Mixing bowls: For tossing shredded chicken with buffalo sauce and combining ingredients.
• Cheese grater: If using block cheese, freshly grate mozzarella and Parmesan.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring and mixing.

Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Baked Ziti: How It’s Done

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 pound of ziti pasta and cook until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside. Toss the hot pasta with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Prepare the Buffalo Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken with 1 cup of buffalo wing sauce. Toss well until the chicken is evenly coated. Set aside to let the flavors meld.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and stir to combine. Add 1/2 teaspoon each of onion powder, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Let the cream mixture simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Combine Sauce and Cheese

Lower the heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheeses melt smoothly into the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Assemble the Baked Ziti

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl or directly in your baking dish, combine the cooked ziti, buffalo chicken, and creamy Alfredo sauce. Stir gently to coat the pasta evenly.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish if not already there. Sprinkle a little extra mozzarella on top if desired for a golden finish. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy the perfect blend of spicy, creamy, and cheesy goodness.

Holiday & Seasonal Touches

• Add roasted red peppers or caramelized onions for a sweet contrast during winter months.
• Incorporate fresh spinach or kale into the pasta mix for a nutrient boost in spring.
• Top with crunchy toasted breadcrumbs for extra texture during holiday dinners.
• Serve alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness.

Notes on Ingredients

• Chicken: You can use leftover roasted chicken or quickly grill some chicken breasts. Just be sure to shred them finely for easy mixing.
• Buffalo wing sauce: Adjust the heat level to your preference. Mild, medium, or hot sauces all work beautifully.
• Cheeses: Freshly grated mozzarella and Parmesan melt better and provide superior flavor compared to pre-shredded varieties.
• Heavy cream: This creates the silky Alfredo base, but for a lighter option, consider a mix of milk and cream or substitute with a lighter cheesy pasta bake approach.

Save It for Later

This Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Baked Ziti reheats beautifully. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions, adding a splash of milk or cream to keep the sauce creamy.

If you want to meal prep, assemble the dish but hold off on baking. Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then bake fresh when ready to serve.

Ask & Learn

Can I use a different pasta instead of ziti?

Absolutely! Penne, rigatoni, or even elbow macaroni are excellent substitutes that hold sauce well and bake nicely.

What if I don’t have buffalo wing sauce on hand?

You can make your own by mixing hot sauce with melted butter and a touch of vinegar or use a store-bought wing sauce that suits your taste preferences.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a creamy plant-based alternative, and use dairy-free cheeses. Keep in mind the flavor profile will shift slightly.

Is it possible to make this recipe spicier or milder?

Yes! Adjust the amount of buffalo wing sauce or choose a hotter or milder variety. You can also add fresh diced jalapeños for extra heat or reduce the sauce for a gentler spice level.

Keep Cooking

• For another flavorful chicken pasta, try out this Spinach Parmesan Pasta With Chicken.
• If you love cheesy bakes, you’ll enjoy this Lighter Cheesy Pasta Bake that’s packed with flavor but lighter on calories.
• For an amazing appetizer to kick off your meal, check out Buffalo Chicken Pull Apart Bread—it’s loaded with the same spicy chicken goodness.

Bring It to the Table

This dish is a showstopper when it comes to serving. Pair your Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Baked Ziti with a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables to balance the richness. A side of garlic bread or warm dinner rolls also complements the cheesy, spicy flavors perfectly. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this baked ziti is sure to impress and satisfy every appetite.

Rich, creamy, and just the right amount of spicy, this dish is one to keep in your recipe arsenal for when you want comfort food with a twist. Dig in, savor every bite, and watch how fast it disappears from the table!

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