Craving a high-protein meal that’s bursting with flavor? Look no further than this Crispy Buffalo Chicken Alfredo. With 65 grams of protein per serving, it’s an ideal choice for anyone looking to add a bit of spice to their meal prep routine. Follow these simple steps to make a creamy, spicy, and ultra-satisfying Alfredo that will surely elevate your weeknight dinners.
Crispy Buffalo Chicken Alfredo
Ingredients for Crispy Buffalo Chicken Alfredo
To create this mouthwatering dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Crispy Buffalo Chicken
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into thin fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Light cooking oil spray
For the Buffalo Alfredo Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup Buffalo sauce
- 1 cup low-fat evaporated milk
- 2 ounces light cream cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta
- 8 ounces pasta of your choice (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti work well)
- Reserved pasta water (about 1/4 cup)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Step 1: Preparing the Crispy Buffalo Chicken
To get that perfect crispy texture on your chicken, you’ll want to start with a flavorful coating.
- Season the Chicken
Cut each chicken breast into thin fillets to ensure even cooking. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Toss to coat the chicken evenly with the seasoning.
- Create the Breading Mixture
In a shallow dish, mix the breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese and a dash of the same seasonings used on the chicken. This blend will add an extra layer of flavor and crunch.
- Coat the Chicken
Dip each chicken fillet into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Next, press each fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even coat. Set each piece aside on a clean plate. - Cook the Chicken
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) or your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray each coated chicken piece with cooking oil spray, then arrange them in the air fryer basket or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.- Air Fryer: Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- Oven: Bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
Step 2: Cooking the Pasta
While the chicken cooks, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to package instructions. Once it reaches an al dente texture, reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water, drain the pasta, and set it aside.
Step 3: Making the Buffalo Alfredo Sauce
This creamy Buffalo Alfredo sauce is what truly sets this dish apart.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil or butter. Once hot, add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant. - Add Buffalo Sauce and Cream Base
Stir in the Buffalo sauce, letting it blend with the onion and garlic. Add the evaporated milk and stir continuously, making sure it doesn’t burn. Then, add the light cream cheese, stirring until it melts completely, creating a smooth, creamy sauce. - Season and Thicken the Sauce
Sprinkle in a pinch of salt and pepper, adding more Parmesan cheese to enhance the flavor. Stir well until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes velvety.
Step 4: Combining Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the Buffalo Alfredo sauce. Pour in the reserved pasta water, which will help the sauce adhere to the pasta for a silkier texture. Toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated with the sauce.
Step 5: Assembling the Dish
- Slice and Serve the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked and golden, slice it into strips and divide it evenly among your pasta servings. - Garnish and Enjoy
Top each serving with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan for an extra burst of flavor.
Tips for Making the Best Crispy Buffalo Chicken Alfredo
1. Customize the Heat Level
- If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of Buffalo sauce in the Alfredo. For more heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper or an extra tablespoon of Buffalo sauce.
2. Make It Ahead
- This dish is ideal for meal prep! Simply store portions in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently to maintain the creamy texture.
3. Experiment with Different Breads
- Swap the breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Protein: 65g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 15g
- Calories: Approximately 650
Crispy Buffalo Chicken Alfredo combines the indulgence of creamy pasta with the satisfying crunch of seasoned chicken. It’s a high-protein meal that’s easy to make, perfect for meal prep, and packed with flavor. Whip up this recipe for a delicious dinner that’s bound to impress both family and friends.
