Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
Get ready to elevate your comfort food game with this irresistible Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese! Combining the creamy, cheesy goodness of mac and cheese with the spicy, tangy flavors of buffalo chicken, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for game day, family dinners, or anytime you’re craving something indulgent. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.
Why This Recipe Works
This Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe is a winner because it’s incredibly easy to make with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. The combination of tender shredded chicken, spicy buffalo sauce, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce creates a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. Plus, it’s customizable—you can adjust the spice level to suit your taste or add extra toppings for a personalized touch.
Another reason this recipe works so well is its versatility. It’s perfect as a main dish, a side, or even a party appetizer. Whether you’re serving it at a casual get-together or enjoying it as a weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress.
What’s In Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese?
The magic of this dish lies in its perfect balance of flavors and textures. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Pasta: Elbow macaroni is classic, but any short pasta works.
- Chicken: Cooked and shredded chicken adds protein and heartiness.
- Buffalo Sauce: The star of the show, providing that signature spicy, tangy flavor.
- Cheese: A blend of cheddar and cream cheese creates a rich, creamy sauce.
- Milk and Butter: For a smooth, velvety cheese sauce.
- Breadcrumbs: Adds a crunchy topping for contrast.
- Green Onions and Blue Cheese: Optional garnishes for extra flavor.
How To Make Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
This recipe is straightforward and comes together in just a few simple steps. Here’s how to make it:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes until golden.
- Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
- Add cream cheese and shredded cheddar, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Combine Everything
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and buffalo sauce. Pour the cheese sauce over the mixture and stir until well combined.
Step 4: Bake
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Let the dish cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions and crumbled blue cheese, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Sides for Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
Pair your Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese with these delicious sides:
- Celery Sticks: A classic pairing with buffalo flavors, adding a refreshing crunch.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any extra cheese sauce.
- Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing: For dipping or drizzling over the top.
- Simple Green Salad: To balance the richness of the dish.
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use any short pasta like penne, shells, or fusilli.
How Spicy Is This Dish?
The spice level depends on the buffalo sauce you use. For a milder version, choose a mild sauce or reduce the amount. For extra heat, add more sauce or a dash of hot sauce.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! Assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Other Recipes To Try
- Buffalo Cauliflower Mac and Cheese: A vegetarian twist on this classic, using roasted cauliflower instead of chicken.
- Creamy White Cheddar Mac and Cheese: Perfect for a cozy night in or a family dinner.
- Spicy BBQ Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese: Swap buffalo sauce for BBQ sauce and use pulled pork for a smoky, sweet variation.
- Truffle Mac and Cheese: Elevate your mac and cheese with the luxurious flavor of truffle oil.
- Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers: A low-carb option that packs all the flavor of buffalo chicken into bell peppers.
Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
- 12 oz 340g elbow macaroni
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- ½ cup buffalo sauce
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 4 oz 113g cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions and crumbled blue cheese optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan. Whisk in flour, then gradually add milk. Stir in cream cheese and cheddar until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine: Mix pasta, chicken, and buffalo sauce in a bowl. Pour cheese sauce over and stir to combine.
- Bake: Transfer to a greased baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Let cool slightly, then garnish with green onions and blue cheese if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to suit your taste.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the dish and refrigerate before baking for up to 24 hours.
- Freezing: Freeze before baking for up to 3 months. Thaw and bake as directed.
- Substitutions: Use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut.
- Extra Toppings: Add crispy bacon bits or diced jalapeños for extra flavor.
Nutrition
Enjoy your Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese! Let us know how it turned out in the comments below!
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