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If you’re craving a dish that brilliantly balances creamy comfort with a fiery kick, then you absolutely have to try this Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese. This recipe combines tender rotini pasta, succulent pieces of chicken tossed in tangy buffalo sauce, and a luxurious blend of cheddar and cream cheese that melts into a dreamy sauce. Every bite bursts with flavor, making it the perfect dish to cozy up with on any day you want something warm, hearty, and just a little bit spicy. Whether you’re feeding friends or treating yourself, Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings that beloved classic macaroni and cheese to a whole new level of yum.

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started with Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese couldn’t be simpler, and each ingredient plays an essential role in the final dish. From creamy cheeses to flavorful chicken and the perfect pasta, every component contributes to the wonderful texture, vibrant color, and that delicious buffalo punch.

12 oz rotini pasta: The spiral shape holds onto the cheesy sauce beautifully for a perfect every-bite experience.
2 cups cooked, diced boneless skinless chicken breast: Tender chicken adds protein and pairs wonderfully with buffalo sauce.
1/2 cup buffalo sauce: This is where the signature spicy tang comes from, giving the dish its bold kick.
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: Sharp cheddar brings richness and that classic mac and cheese flavor we all love.
4 oz cream cheese: Creates an ultra-smooth, creamy base that melds everything together.
2 tbsp butter: The foundation for the sauce’s roux, adding depth and silkiness.
1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce, making it luxuriously creamy and cling to the pasta.
2 cups milk: Adds the perfect creaminess and smooth texture to the sauce.
1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for topping): Gives a delightful crunch when baked, creating a tasty contrast.
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish): Adds a fresh, mild bite and a pop of color to finish the dish beautifully.

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente. This ensures the pasta will hold its shape and have a slight bite, balancing nicely with the creamy sauce later. Drain and set the pasta aside, but don’t forget to save a little pasta water just in case you want to loosen the sauce later.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat a skillet over medium heat and add your diced chicken breast. Season it lightly with salt and pepper, then sauté until golden brown and cooked through, about five to seven minutes. This step locks in the chicken’s juiciness and readies it to marry perfectly with the buffalo sauce and cheese.

Step 3: Create Cheese Sauce

In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to form a roux, cooking it for just a minute to eliminate any raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken. Next, stir in the cream cheese until melted and silky. Finally, add shredded sharp cheddar and buffalo sauce, mixing constantly until everything is melted into a luscious, creamy sauce with those signature spicy notes.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Now it’s time to bring all those amazing elements together. Toss the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, making sure every nook and cranny is coated with cheesy goodness. Then gently fold in the sautéed chicken so each bite has that fantastic buffalo-infused flavor running through it.

Step 5: Add Toppings

Transfer the Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese into a greased baking dish and sprinkle panko breadcrumbs evenly on top. This step adds that irresistible crunchy topping that gives the dish texture and depth, complementing the creamy interior.

Step 6: Bake

Pop your dish into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. The goal here is to get the topping beautifully golden brown and the cheese sauce bubbling joyfully. Once done, let it cool just a little before diving in – patience is a virtue when it comes to this heavenly meal!

How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

Garnishes

To brighten up each serving, sprinkle sliced green onions over the top just before eating. Their mild onion flavor adds a lovely fresh contrast, and the green color makes the dish look even more inviting and appetizing.

Side Dishes

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is a hearty main on its own, but it pairs beautifully with cool, crisp sides that tame the heat. Consider a simple celery and carrot stick platter with ranch dressing, or a fresh green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance out the richness and spice.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress your guests? Serve individual portions in mini cast-iron skillets or muffin tins for fun, personal-sized servings. You can also layer the mac and cheese with additional buffalo chicken for a casserole buffet-style presentation that invites everyone to customize their own plate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the crunchy breadcrumb topping separate if you want to preserve its texture. When ready to enjoy, just reheat and add freshly toasted panko on top for that just-baked feeling.

Freezing

This dish freezes well if you want to prepare it ahead of time. Freeze in a sealed container without the topping for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, then add fresh panko breadcrumbs and bake for a few minutes to re-crisp the top.

Reheating

For the best texture when reheating, warm Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce. Then, bake uncovered for about 10 minutes at 350°F to restore that bubbly, golden finish with a crisp topping.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese?

Absolutely! While rotini’s spirals are fantastic for holding sauce, other shapes like elbow macaroni, shells, or penne would also work beautifully. Just make sure to cook the pasta al dente to avoid mushy textures once baked.

How spicy is the Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese?

The heat level depends mainly on the buffalo sauce you choose. Most store-bought buffalo sauces offer a medium spice, but you can pick milder or hotter varieties based on your preference. Adjusting the amount of sauce also lets you control the spice level.

Can I make this vegetarian?

For a vegetarian twist, simply omit the chicken and add roasted cauliflower or mushrooms instead. Toss them in buffalo sauce for that classic flavor and follow the rest of the recipe as usual for an equally delicious comfort meal.

Is there a way to make this dish healthier?

You can lighten this dish by using reduced-fat cheeses or milk, swapping white pasta for whole wheat, and using Greek yogurt in place of cream cheese. Adding extra vegetables like spinach or broccoli can boost the nutrition without sacrificing taste.

What’s the best way to get the breadcrumb topping crispy?

Using panko breadcrumbs is key since they crisp up beautifully when baked. Toss them lightly in melted butter before sprinkling over the mac and cheese to encourage golden, crunchy perfection after baking.

Final Thoughts

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is the kind of dish that brings excitement back to classic comfort food. With its perfect harmony of creamy cheese, spicy buffalo sauce, and tender chicken, it’s great for casual dinners, game day celebrations, or anytime you want a meal that feels like a warm hug. Give this recipe a try soon, and I promise it will become a favorite in your recipe rotation — it’s just that good!

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Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

★★★★★

5.3 from 23 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Halal

Print Recipe

Description

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delicious twist on classic comfort food, combining creamy cheddar cheese sauce, tender buffalo-spiced chicken, and crispy panko topping for a spicy, cheesy baked pasta dish that’s perfect for game day or a cozy dinner.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water and cook rotini until al dente according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Prepare the Chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced chicken breast seasoned with salt and pepper until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Create Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously to form a roux, cooking for about 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in milk until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken. Stir in cream cheese until melted and combined. Add shredded cheddar and buffalo sauce, stirring until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta and sautéed chicken to the cheese sauce, mixing well to coat all ingredients evenly.
Add Toppings: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Evenly spread panko breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy texture.
Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with sliced green onions before serving warm.

Notes

Use rotini or any short pasta shape that holds sauce well.
Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to control the heat level.
For extra flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika to the cheese sauce.
Substitute low-fat cream cheese and reduced-fat cheddar for a lighter version.
Make sure to keep an eye on the breadcrumbs while baking to avoid burning.
Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Boiling, Sautéing, Baking
Cuisine: American