This Easy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad is a fun twist on classic pasta salad! With creamy dressing, tender chicken, and a spicy kick, it’s perfect for a quick meal or a potluck dish.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a little heat in their meal? This salad brings together the best of both worlds: delicious carbs and zesty flavors. I often make a big batch so I can munch on it all week!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Rotini or radiatori work great for holding the dressing, but any short pasta like penne or fusilli will also do. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta are excellent substitutes if you’re looking for healthier options.
Chicken: I usually use rotisserie chicken because it’s quick and adds great flavor. You can also use leftover grilled chicken or even shredded canned chicken if you’re in a bind!
Buffalo Wing Sauce: Adjust the heat by adding more or less sauce. If you prefer a milder option, use a combination of hot sauce and a little barbecue sauce. Feeling adventurous? Try sriracha for a different twist!
Dressings: Ranch is my go-to, but blue cheese adds a delightful tang. Try using a yogurt-based dressing for a lighter option. Homemade dressings can also elevate the flavor, but store-bought makes it quick.
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta Salad Flavors Mix Well?
Chilling your pasta salad is the key to blending flavors! Here’s a simple guide to enhance the taste:
- After mixing all ingredients, seal it in an airtight container.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes—longer is better, allowing ingredients to marry.
- Before serving, give it a good stir and taste—adjust seasoning if needed.
This ensures that every bite is flavorful and satisfying!
Easy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
- 8 oz rotini or radiatori pasta (or your choice of short pasta)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped (rotisserie or grilled)
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, diced
- Optional: chopped green onions or chives for garnish
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Time Needed:
This delicious pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes of chilling time in the refrigerator. So, you can have a tasty dish ready in under an hour! Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a potluck!
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling water in a large pot and add a pinch of salt. Cook the rotini or your chosen pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Set it aside while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
2. Combine the Chicken and Sauce:
In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded or chopped chicken. Pour in the buffalo wing sauce and give it a good toss to make sure every piece of chicken is coated evenly. This is where the spicy flavor begins!
3. Make the Pasta Salad Mix:
Add the cooled pasta to the chicken bowl. Then, pour in the ranch or blue cheese dressing. Mix everything together really well until the pasta and chicken are coated in the dressing. It’s gonna be creamy and delicious!
4. Fold in the Extras:
Now it’s time to add the fun toppings! Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, diced celery, diced carrots, and chopped hard-boiled eggs. These ingredients add great texture and flavor to the salad!
5. Season and Garnish:
Sprinkle salt and black pepper to taste. Don’t forget about the optional chopped green onions or chives if you want to add some freshness on top! Mix everything one last time.
6. Chill the Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the pasta salad into an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let all the flavors meld together beautifully.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, grab your salad from the fridge, give it a gentle stir, and serve! It can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Enjoy your spicy, creamy buffalo chicken pasta salad — it’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken is perfect for this salad. Just shred or chop it and mix it with the buffalo sauce. You can also use any cooked chicken you have on hand!
How Spicy is This Salad?
The spice level depends on the amount of buffalo wing sauce you use. Start with 1/2 cup, and if you prefer more heat, feel free to add more to taste. You can also mix it with a bit of ranch dressing to tone it down.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It makes for a quick lunch or snack. Just give it a stir before serving, as some of the dressing may settle.
Can I Make This Pasta Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This salad tastes even better when made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together. Just remember to give it a good stir before serving after it’s been chilled.
