Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

If you’re craving something that combines creamy comfort, a spicy kick, and hearty satisfaction, then let me introduce you to the magic of Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese. This dish marries tender rotini pasta with juicy, buffalo sauce-coated chicken and a luscious, cheesy sauce that’s both tangy and velvety. It’s the perfect twist on two beloved classics, creating a flavor-packed meal that will quickly become a go-to for cozy nights or any time you want to impress friends with something truly unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the secret to making your Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese sing with flavor. Each item is carefully chosen to build layers of creamy texture, bold heat, and satisfying crunch that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.

• 12 oz rotini pasta: Its spiral shape holds onto cheese sauce beautifully for every bite to be flavorful.
• 2 cups cooked, diced boneless skinless chicken breast: Provides tender protein to balance the creaminess and spice.
• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce: Packs the iconic tangy heat that defines the dish’s personality.
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: Gives a rich, bold cheesiness with a hint of sharpness.
• 4 oz cream cheese: Adds silkiness and depth to the sauce’s texture.
• 2 tbsp butter: The base for the roux, lending a smooth, rich foundation to the cheese sauce.
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce for that perfect, clingy consistency.
• 2 cups milk: Creates the creamy liquid base of the sauce, balancing richness and spice.
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for topping): Toasting to golden perfection, these add a welcome crunchy contrast on top.
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish): Provides a fresh, mild bite and a pop of color to finish.

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling salted water and cooking the rotini pasta until it is perfectly al dente. This texture is critical because you want the pasta to hold its shape and provide a slight bite that contrasts with the creamy cheese sauce and tender chicken. Once cooked, drain well and set the pasta aside, ready to be combined with the rest of the ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While your pasta is cooking, take diced chicken breast and sauté it in a skillet over medium heat. Season it lightly with salt and pepper, allowing the chicken to develop a beautiful golden-brown exterior while staying juicy inside. This step not only builds flavor but also ensures the chicken complements the sauce rather than competing with it.

Step 3: Create Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt the butter gently over medium heat and whisk in the flour to form a smooth roux, which will thicken the sauce without lumps. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously until the mixture is creamy and smooth. Next, stir in the cream cheese until melted and silky, followed by the shredded sharp cheddar cheese that brings richness. Finally, blend in the buffalo sauce, which adds that signature spicy punch and ties all the flavors together in one irresistible sauce.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return to the cooked pasta and pour the luscious cheese sauce over it. Add in the golden chicken pieces and stir gently but thoroughly, ensuring every piece of rotini and chicken is evenly coated. This step is where the Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese really comes together, mixing creamy, spicy, and meaty elements in every forkful.

Step 5: Add Toppings and Bake

Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish and generously sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs evenly across the top. This crunchy topping will toast up nicely in the oven. Bake the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes until it’s bubbling and the breadcrumbs are golden and crisp, creating the perfect textural contrast to the creamy filling.

How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of sliced green onions adds a fresh, sharp note and a vibrant green pop to the rich, creamy surface of the Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese. You could also add a drizzle of extra buffalo sauce or a few crumbles of blue cheese if you want to amp up the flavor complexity even more.

Side Dishes

This dish is hearty enough to stand on its own, but it’s also lovely paired with crisp, refreshing sides like a crunchy celery salad or a crisp romaine wedge drizzled with a light vinaigrette. These lighter options balance out the richness and make the meal feel perfectly rounded.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese in individual ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets to impress guests at your next gathering. Another option is to turn leftovers into crispy mac and cheese bites by breading and frying small spoonfuls — a perfect finger food that keeps all the flavors of the original dish!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese to cool completely before transferring leftovers to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually tend to meld nicely overnight, making the next-day meal even more delicious.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this comforting dish another day, Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the dish’s creamy texture and spicy zing.

Reheating

Reheat individual servings gently in a microwave, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming, or use a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes if reheating a larger portion. You might want to add a splash of milk while reheating to refresh the creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I make Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like roasted cauliflower or mushrooms and still enjoy a rich, spicy mac and cheese experience.

How spicy is Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese?

The spiciness comes from the buffalo sauce, which has a moderate heat level. You can adjust the amount of buffalo sauce up or down depending on your heat preference.

What cheese works best in this recipe?

Sharp cheddar is ideal for its bold flavor and melting quality, but you can also mix in mozzarella or Monterey Jack for extra creaminess.

Can I use different pasta shapes?

Yes! While rotini is great for holding sauce, other shapes like elbow macaroni, penne, or shells will also work wonderfully.

Is this recipe freezer friendly?

Yes, Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese freezes well and can be stored for up to two months. Just be sure to thaw and reheat properly for best texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate — creamy, spicy, and downright comforting all at once. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving a tasty dinner, this recipe never fails to deliver pure joy. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a beloved favorite in your household.

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