Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is the ultimate twist on a classic comfort dish, combining creamy cheese with the bold heat of buffalo sauce. It’s a hearty, flavorful meal that delivers the best of both worlds.
Packed with shredded chicken and melty cheese, this dish provides a perfect balance of rich, savory flavors with just the right amount of kick. Each bite is a satisfying explosion of comfort and spice.
Whether you’re a buffalo sauce enthusiast or simply love mac and cheese, this recipe is sure to impress. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing dinner that can be enjoyed any night of the week.
Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese Ingredients
Macaroni pasta forms the heart of this dish, providing a perfect base that holds the rich, creamy sauce. The butter creates a smooth, velvety texture, while the flour thickens the sauce for a luxurious consistency.
Paprika, salt, and pepper infuse the sauce with subtle depth and aromatic warmth, complementing the heat from the buffalo sauce. Sharp cheddar and mozzarella bring the essential meltiness and bold, creamy flavor that elevate this comfort food.
Shredded chicken adds heartiness and protein, absorbing the tangy sauce while contributing tender texture. The buffalo sauce ties everything together, delivering just the right amount of heat and tang to make this mac and cheese unforgettable.
Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
This Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food with a bold twist. The creamy, cheesy base infused with spicy buffalo sauce and shredded chicken creates a perfect harmony of flavors that will satisfy any craving. It’s hearty, flavorful, and sure to impress your guests or your family. Whether you’re craving something indulgent or looking for a fun take on a classic dish, this recipe is the answer.
Recipe Tips
- Adjust the Heat Level
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Whether you prefer mild, medium, or hot buffalo sauce, feel free to customize the heat level to suit your taste. If you’re serving kids or spice-averse eaters, go for a mild buffalo sauce. On the other hand, if you like it spicy, try adding a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick. - Shred the Chicken for Maximum Flavor
When it comes to the chicken, shredding it rather than chopping it ensures that every bite is coated with the delicious buffalo sauce. This allows the chicken to soak up more of the flavor and blends seamlessly with the creamy cheese sauce. - Use Freshly Shredded Cheese
For the best melt and texture, always opt for freshly shredded cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly. The freshly shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella will melt beautifully, giving the sauce a smooth and luxurious texture.
What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
- Side Salad
A crisp, refreshing side salad balances the richness of this creamy dish. Opt for a simple mix of greens with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the heat and creaminess. A side of crunchy vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions also works well to complement the dish’s bold flavors. - Garlic Bread
No comfort meal is complete without garlic bread! The crispy, buttery texture of garlic bread pairs perfectly with the smooth, spicy mac and cheese. The garlic flavor adds an extra layer of deliciousness without overwhelming the dish, making it the ideal sidekick. - Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts are a great way to add some nutrition and color to your meal. The slight char and natural sweetness of the vegetables create a perfect contrast to the spicy, cheesy mac and cheese, making every bite a satisfying experience.
FAQ
1. Can I make Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance. Make the mac and cheese up to the point of mixing in the chicken and pasta, then store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it on the stovetop with a little extra milk to loosen up the sauce.
2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While macaroni pasta is the classic choice, feel free to use any pasta you have on hand. Penne, fusilli, or shells would all work well and add some variety to the dish.
3. Can I make this recipe without buffalo sauce?
If you prefer a milder version, you can omit the buffalo sauce and substitute it with a bit of ranch dressing for a creamy, tangy twist. However, if you’re aiming for the bold, spicy flavor that defines this dish, buffalo sauce is a must.
4. Can I freeze this Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese?
Yes, you can freeze the mac and cheese for up to 3 months. Make sure to cool it completely before storing it in an airtight container. To reheat, defrost it overnight in the fridge and heat it on the stovetop with some milk to restore the creamy consistency.
Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
- 12 ounces macaroni pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk plus additional if needed
- ½ cup buffalo sauce mild, medium, or hot
- 2 cups freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded or chopped
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the macaroni and cook until al dente, approximately 2 minutes less than the time suggested on the package. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cool water. Set aside.
- In the same pot (or a new one), melt the butter over medium heat. Once fully melted, whisk in the flour until it is completely incorporated. Continue to whisk until the mixture turns golden, which should take a few minutes.
- Add the paprika, salt, and black pepper to the pot, cooking for about 30 seconds or until the spices become fragrant.
- Gradually pour in the milk and buffalo sauce, whisking constantly to combine. Stir until the sauce is warmed through and begins to thicken, which should take approximately 5 minutes.
- Once the sauce has thickened sufficiently to coat the back of a spoon, remove the pot from the heat. Slowly stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese in batches until fully melted and smooth.
- Add the shredded chicken and cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add warm milk a little at a time to reach the desired consistency.
- Serve with a garnish of blue cheese crumbles and sliced green onions for an extra touch of flavor.
- This buffalo mac and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm on the stovetop or microwave in 30-second intervals, adding milk if necessary to maintain a smooth, creamy texture.
