Irresistible Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting about a steaming bowl of Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese. Picture creamy, cheesy goodness intertwined with tender pieces of spicy chicken, all coated in a savory sauce that dances on your taste buds. It’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for those days when you need a little pick-me-up or want to impress your friends at game night.

This dish isn’t just food; it’s an experience! I remember the first time I made it for my friends during a casual get-together. The moment they took their first bite and their eyes lit up was priceless! Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food for any occasion, from cozy nights at home to lively parties where everyone gathers around the table.

I once made this dish for a potluck, and the rave reviews were enough to make me blush! Everyone asked for the recipe, and I felt like a rock star in the kitchen.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work best; adjust based on how many guests you’re serving.

• Buffalo Sauce: Choose your favorite brand or make your own; it adds that signature heat and flavor.

• Pasta (Cavatappi or Elbow): These shapes hold onto the cheese sauce perfectly; opt for whole grain if you prefer.

• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Go for sharp cheddar for a more flavorful punch; it’s the star of this cheesy show.

• Heavy Cream: This gives the mac and cheese its luscious creaminess; don’t skip it!

• Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness; it’ll help create that silky sauce.

• Garlic Powder: A must-have seasoning that enhances overall flavor; fresh garlic works too!

• Green Onions: Chopped green onions add freshness and color as a garnish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

Start by cooking your chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt some butter. Add diced chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper. Sauté until golden brown and cooked through, typically 8-10 minutes.

Next up is boiling pasta: In a separate pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well but reserve some pasta water for later use.

Make that creamy sauce: In the same skillet used for chicken, pour in heavy cream and buffalo sauce. Stir well over medium heat until combined. Add cheese gradually while stirring until melted into a rich sauce.

Combine everything: Add drained pasta into the skillet with the chicken and sauce mixture. Stir gently until every piece of pasta is coated with creamy goodness—add reserved pasta water if needed for desired consistency.

Garnish before serving: Transfer your Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese into bowls or a baking dish. Top with chopped green onions for added freshness before digging in!

Now you’re ready to experience pure comfort! Enjoy each bite of this delightful dish that combines the spicy kick of buffalo sauce with cheesy indulgence—it’s practically love at first bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the pasta al dente while you prepare the buffalo chicken, then mix everything together for a creamy finish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out regular cheese for blue cheese or add vegetables like broccoli for extra nutrition.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through, adding a splash of milk if needed.

I remember the first time I made Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese for friends; they couldn’t stop raving about it, and I felt like a culinary genius!

FAQ

Can I use store-bought buffalo sauce?

Absolutely! Store-bought sauces can save time and still taste delicious in this recipe.

What type of cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar is ideal, but mixing in gouda or mozzarella adds extra creaminess!

How can I make this dish healthier?

Consider using whole grain pasta and adding more vegetables to boost nutrition without sacrificing flavor.

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Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

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Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy cheese sauce with spicy buffalo chicken for a dish that’s sure to impress. This recipe features tender pieces of chicken tossed in tangy buffalo sauce, enveloped in a luxurious cheese blend over perfectly cooked pasta. Ideal for game nights or cozy family dinners, it’s a flavorful experience that will leave everyone asking for more!

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6
• Category: Main
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
• 1 cup buffalo sauce
• 8 oz cavatappi or elbow pasta
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 2 green onions (chopped) for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Season diced chicken with salt and pepper, then sauté until golden brown and cooked through (8-10 minutes).
2. Boil salted water in a separate pot. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente; drain, reserving some pasta water.
3. In the same skillet, combine heavy cream and buffalo sauce over medium heat. Gradually stir in cheese until melted and smooth.
4. Add drained pasta to the skillet with the chicken and sauce; mix gently until coated. If needed, add reserved pasta water for desired consistency.
5. Transfer to bowls or a baking dish and garnish with chopped green onions.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 580
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 910mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 34g
• Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: For added flavor, consider using blue cheese or mixing in veggies like broccoli. Leftover rotisserie chicken works great for quicker preparation. Store leftovers in an airtight container; reheat with a splash of milk if needed.