Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

When comfort food meets a tangy kick, you get the irresistible Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese. This dish combines tender rotini pasta, succulent chicken tossed in spicy buffalo sauce, and a creamy, cheesy sauce that melts in your mouth. It’s the perfect balance of bold flavors and smooth textures that will have you reaching for seconds (and thirds). Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner or a crowd-pleaser for your next gathering, this Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is guaranteed to deliver warmth and excitement in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple but essential ingredients is the first step to creating the perfect Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese. Each one plays a vital role—from the creamy cheeses to the spicy buffalo sauce that gives this dish its signature zing. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this flavorful masterpiece to life:

• 12 oz rotini pasta: The spiral shape holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully.
• 2 cups cooked, diced boneless skinless chicken breast: Adds hearty protein and soaks up all the buffalo flavor.
• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce: Brings that classic, spicy buffalo punch.
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: Sharpness cuts through the creaminess for a perfect balance.
• 4 oz cream cheese: Provides luxurious creaminess and smooth texture.
• 2 tbsp butter: Helps create the roux, giving the sauce body and richness.
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Thickens the cheese sauce to the ideal consistency.
• 2 cups milk: The base for the creamy, dreamy cheese sauce.

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by boiling your rotini pasta in salted water until it reaches al dente perfection—tender but still with a slight bite. This ensures the pasta doesn’t turn mushy later when combined with the sauce, providing a satisfying texture that holds up against the richness.

Step 2: Prepare the Buffalo Chicken

In a medium bowl, toss your cooked, diced chicken breast with the buffalo sauce until every piece is coated in that vibrant, spicy flavor. This step is essential because it infuses the chicken with the zesty kick that defines this dish.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously to form a smooth roux. Slowly add the milk, whisking as you go, until the mixture thickens into a creamy base. Then, stir in the cream cheese and shredded sharp cheddar until melted and silky—this sauce is the heart of your Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese.

Step 4: Combine All the Ingredients

Drain the pasta and add it directly into the cheese sauce, mixing gently to coat each piece. Fold in the buffalo chicken, ensuring the spicy, cheesy goodness is evenly distributed throughout the dish.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Give your Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese a final stir, taste for seasoning, and get ready to indulge. This creamy, spicy dish shines brightest when served immediately, bubbling and warm!

How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

Garnishes

Finishing touches can elevate your Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese to another level. Try sprinkling chopped green onions, crumbled blue cheese, or a drizzle of ranch dressing for contrast. A few celery sticks on the side also add a refreshing crunch that complements the spicy richness.

Side Dishes

To round out the meal, pair this dish with light and fresh sides like a crisp garden salad or steamed broccoli. These help balance the bold flavors and creamy texture of the mac and cheese, creating a well-rounded dinner experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, bake your Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese in individual ramekins topped with extra cheese and breadcrumbs for a golden crust. Alternatively, serve it stuffed inside bell peppers or on top of toasted garlic bread for a playful and shareable meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese left, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers delicious in their own right.

Freezing

This dish freezes well! Place cooled Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating to maintain the creamy texture.

Reheating

To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently, or microwave in short bursts to prevent overheating. Add a splash of milk if it seems too thick to keep it creamy and smooth.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta instead of rotini?

Absolutely! While rotini is perfect for trapping the cheesy sauce, elbow macaroni, penne, or shells would work brilliantly as well.

Is it possible to adjust the spiciness?

Of course! Simply add less buffalo sauce if you prefer milder flavors, or boost it up with extra sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for more heat.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely! Swap out the chicken for roasted cauliflower florets or crispy tofu tossed in buffalo sauce for a delicious vegetarian version.

What type of cheese works best for the sauce?

Sharp cheddar is great for flavor, but feel free to mix in mozzarella for extra stretchiness or Monterey Jack for a milder taste.

How do I prevent the mac and cheese from drying out when baking?

Adding a bit of extra milk or cream cheese before baking helps keep the sauce luscious. Covering the dish with foil while baking also keeps moisture locked in.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese has become such a beloved comfort food classic—it’s the perfect blend of creamy, spicy, and downright satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or craving a cozy night in, this dish delivers big on flavor and heartiness. I can’t wait for you to try it and maybe even make it your new go-to comfort meal!

Print