buffalo chicken mac and cheese recipe

buffalo chicken mac and cheese recipe

The Best buffalo chicken mac and cheese recipe

I’m so excited to share my buffalo chicken mac and cheese recipe with you. This dish is a staple in our household, and for good reason. It’s a comforting, creamy, and spicy twist on the classic mac and cheese that never fails to hit the spot.

My kids love it, my husband loves it, and I love it too – it’s a win-win for everyone. But what really sets this recipe apart is its simplicity. It’s not just about throwing some ingredients together; it’s about understanding the key technique of creating a perfectly balanced sauce that coats every bite of pasta.

The result is a dish that’s both satisfying and sophisticated. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make!

Just like many Southern comfort foods, buffalo chicken mac and cheese has its roots in traditional cuisine. The concept of combining spicy buffalo sauce with creamy cheese and pasta dates back to the early days of American comfort food. However, my recipe takes this classic idea and elevates it to new heights with the addition of crispy bacon and fresh herbs.

The smoky flavor of the bacon pairs perfectly with the tangy kick of the buffalo sauce, while the herbs add a bright freshness to each bite.

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

4.6 from 1815 votes

A spicy and creamy mac and cheese with shredded chicken and buffalo sauce. This dish is perfect for game day or a quick weeknight dinner.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time50 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 650 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese

8 oz elbow macaroni
3 tbsp butter
3 tbsp flour
2 cups milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder

For the Buffalo Chicken

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup buffalo sauce

For Topping

1/4 cup ranch dressing
2 green onions, sliced

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2Cook elbow macaroni in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
3Drain and set aside.
4In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
5Add flour and whisk to form a roux.
6Cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
7Gradually add milk to the roux, whisking continuously.
8Cook for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens.
9Add cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
10Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
11Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
12Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
13Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side.
14Shred the cooked chicken using two forks.
15Toss the shredded chicken in buffalo sauce until well coated.
16In a baking dish, combine the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce.
17Mix in the buffalo chicken until well combined.
18Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the mac and cheese is bubbly and the top is lightly golden.
19Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
20Drizzle with ranch dressing, sprinkle with sliced green onions, and serve.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Saucepan
Skillet
Baking dish

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 650 kcal🧈Total Fat: 30g💛Saturated Fat: 15g❤️Cholesterol: 120mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 50g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 40g

📝Notes

Tips: You can adjust the spiciness by adding more or less buffalo sauce. For a healthier option, use whole wheat pasta and low-fat cheese.

Watch Video Of How Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese Works

This buffalo chicken mac and cheese recipe is perfect for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a comforting meal after a long day or want to impress your guests at a dinner party.

The leftovers are just as delicious as when it’s freshly made, so feel free to store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze them for later use.

When reheating, simply add some extra milk or cream to achieve the desired consistency.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

What type of pasta is best for buffalo chicken mac and cheese?

A penne or macaroni pasta shape works best for this recipe, as they hold onto the sauce well.

Can I use store-bought buffalo sauce?

Yes, you can use store-bought buffalo sauce if you prefer a milder flavor or don’t have time to make your own.

How long does it take to cook?

The cooking time will depend on whether you choose to make your own pasta from scratch or use pre-cooked pasta.

Can I substitute chicken with beef or pork?

You can substitute chicken with beef or pork if you prefer; however, keep in mind that beef or pork will change the flavor profile of the dish.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

No, this recipe contains chicken and bacon, making it unsuitable for vegetarians.

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