This Easy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is a tasty twist on a classic dish! Creamy cheese, spicy buffalo chicken, and pasta come together for a meal that’s both comforting and exciting.
I love how the spicy kick makes every bite fun, and it’s super easy to make. Perfect for a cozy night in or impressing friends at a game night. Who doesn’t love cheesy goodness with a bit of heat? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I like using elbow macaroni or cavatappi because they hold the cheese sauce well. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try gluten-free pasta or even zucchini noodles for a lighter twist.
Chicken: Use cooked chicken breast for a lean option. Rotisserie chicken works great, too, and saves time! You can substitute with shredded tofu for a vegetarian version if desired.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice kick, while mozzarella adds creaminess. Feel free to swap the cheddar with pepper jack for extra spice or use a dairy-free cheese for a vegan option!
Buffalo Sauce: Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to control the heat level. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute with BBQ sauce or a mix of ranch dressing for a creamy texture.
How Do You Make a Creamy Cheese Sauce Without Lumps?
Creating a smooth cheese sauce is all about technique. Start with a roux, which combines flour and fat, and cook it slightly to remove the raw flour taste. Here’s how to ensure it’s lump-free:
- Cook the flour with butter or oil for 1-2 minutes until it turns slightly golden, stirring constantly.
- Gradually whisk in warm milk instead of cold; this helps the flour absorb liquid evenly.
- Keep whisking as the sauce heats and thickens. Once it’s smooth, lower the heat before adding cheese.
Mix in the cheese slowly, allowing it to melt completely before adding more. This prevents clumping and gives you that rich, creamy texture!
Easy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta
For the Chicken and Sauce:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole milk preferred)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese (softened)
- 1/3 cup buffalo wing sauce (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total, with around 10 minutes for prep and about 20 minutes for cooking. You’ll have a delicious, creamy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook until al dente according to the package directions, usually about 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute or until it becomes fragrant. This adds a lovely flavor to your sauce!
3. Make the Roux:
Next, sprinkle the flour into the skillet with the garlic. Stir it in and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid any lumps. This will help thicken your sauce.
4. Add the Milk:
Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to whisk until the sauce thickens and is smooth. This usually takes a few minutes. Be patient, and keep stirring!
5. Mix in the Cheeses:
Reduce the heat to low and add the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese into the sauce. Stir until all the cheeses are melted and the sauce becomes creamy and delicious.
6. Combine Chicken and Buffalo Sauce:
Add the shredded chicken and buffalo wing sauce to the cheese mixture. Stir well to evenly coat the chicken with the cheesy buffalo goodness.
7. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Now, add the cooked pasta into the skillet. Stir everything together until all the pasta is fully coated with the creamy sauce.
8. Season to Taste:
Season with salt and pepper according to your preference. If you love heat, feel free to drizzle some extra buffalo sauce on top!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish your Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
10. Enjoy:
Serve immediately while it’s hot and gooey. Enjoy your delicious, creamy, and spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese!
FAQ
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred or chop it up, and mix it into the sauce as you would with cooked chicken breast. It adds extra flavor, too!
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you want more heat, add extra buffalo sauce to the dish. You can also use spicy cheese like pepper jack or mix in chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick!
Can I Prepare This Mac and Cheese Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the mac and cheese up to the point of baking, then store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to bring back that creamy texture.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
