Introduction
Buffalo Chicken Tortellini Alfredo is the perfect fusion of bold buffalo flavor and rich, creamy comfort food. This dish brings together tender chicken, cheese-filled tortellini, and a smooth Alfredo sauce infused with just the right amount of heat. I like making this recipe when I want something indulgent and satisfying that still feels exciting and different from traditional pasta dinners. The creamy sauce balances the spice beautifully, while the tortellini adds extra richness with every bite. What makes this dish especially appealing is how quickly it comes together using simple ingredients, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual entertaining. Whether you are a buffalo chicken fan or simply craving a comforting pasta with a kick, Buffalo Chicken Tortellini Alfredo delivers bold flavor, creamy texture, and serious comfort in one irresistible bowl.
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Buffalo Chicken Tortellini Alfredo – Creamy, Spicy, and Comfort-Filled
- Total Time: 20 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
Buffalo Chicken Tortellini Alfredo is a creamy, spicy fusion dish combining tender cheese tortellini, shredded chicken, zesty buffalo sauce, and rich Alfredo—an easy, comforting meal with a kick.
Ingredients
- 1 lb cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup Alfredo sauce
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- Green onions or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook tortellini according to package directions; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sauté garlic for 30 seconds.
- Add Alfredo sauce, buffalo sauce, and heavy cream (if using). Stir until smooth.
- Mix in shredded chicken and simmer 2–3 minutes.
- Add cooked tortellini and toss to coat.
- Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan until melted and creamy.
- Garnish with green onions or parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick option.
- Reduce buffalo sauce for mild flavor or add more for extra heat.
- Top with blue cheese crumbles for classic buffalo-style flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is rich, flavorful, and easy to prepare. It combines creamy Alfredo sauce with spicy buffalo chicken for a bold yet balanced pasta dish that is perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Cheese tortellini
Tortellini adds richness and makes the dish extra filling.
Chicken breast
Chicken provides lean protein and absorbs the buffalo flavor well.
Buffalo sauce
Buffalo sauce delivers signature heat and tangy flavor.
Olive oil
Olive oil helps cook the chicken evenly.
Salt
Salt enhances overall flavor.
Black pepper
Black pepper adds mild warmth.
Unsalted butter
Butter forms the base of the Alfredo sauce.
Garlic
Garlic adds depth and aroma to the sauce.
Heavy cream
Heavy cream creates the smooth, creamy Alfredo texture.
Parmesan cheese
Parmesan adds savory richness and thickens the sauce.
Cream cheese
Cream cheese enhances creaminess and balances the spice.
Paprika
Paprika adds warmth and subtle smokiness.
Fresh parsley
Parsley adds freshness and color before serving.
Directions
Begin by cooking the tortellini according to package instructions until tender. Drain and set aside.
Season the chicken with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden and fully cooked. Toss the chicken with buffalo sauce, coating evenly, then remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add heavy cream and cream cheese, stirring until smooth and slightly thickened. Stir in Parmesan cheese and paprika, allowing the sauce to become creamy and well combined.
Add the cooked tortellini and buffalo chicken back to the skillet. Gently toss everything together until evenly coated in sauce and heated through. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves approximately 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, with a cooking time of 25 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if needed.
Variations and Customizations
Buffalo Chicken Tortellini Alfredo is easy to customize. You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less buffalo sauce. For extra heat, add red pepper flakes. Swap chicken breast for rotisserie chicken to save time. Add spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition. Blue cheese crumbles or shredded mozzarella can be added for a different flavor twist. For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
This dish is high in protein and contains dairy and gluten. It can be adapted using gluten-free tortellini and dairy-free substitutes. Nutritional values vary depending on ingredient choices.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Balance the Heat
Add buffalo sauce gradually to control spice.
Use Freshly Grated Parmesan
It melts more smoothly into the sauce.
Do Not Overcook Tortellini
Tender pasta keeps the dish creamy.
FAQs
Is this dish very spicy?
It is moderately spicy and easily adjustable.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, it works very well.
What tortellini works best?
Cheese-filled tortellini is ideal.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, reheat gently before serving.
Does this freeze well?
Freezing is not recommended due to the cream sauce.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes, spinach or broccoli pair well.
What can I serve with this?
A green salad or garlic bread works well.
Can I make it lighter?
Use reduced-fat cream and less cheese.
Is this kid-friendly?
Yes, reduce the buffalo sauce for milder flavor.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger skillet.
Conclusion
Buffalo Chicken Tortellini Alfredo is a bold, comforting pasta dish that combines creamy Alfredo sauce with spicy buffalo chicken and rich tortellini. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this recipe is perfect for busy nights, comfort-food cravings, or anytime you want a satisfying meal with a little heat.
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