There’s nothing quite like the aroma of bubbling cheese and spicy buffalo chicken wafting through your kitchen. Imagine a creamy, dreamy, and utterly irresistible Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese that makes your taste buds dance with joy! This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that wraps you in warmth and comfort with every cheesy bite. cheesy casserole recipes.
Picture this: a cozy evening with friends, laughter filling the air, and a steaming pot of Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese at the center of it all. The perfect blend of zesty buffalo sauce, tender chicken, and gooey cheese creates a culinary hug that warms the heart. simple salsa chicken dish Trust me, once you serve this dish, your friends will be begging for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
- The explosion of flavors will have everyone asking for more
- Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any dinner table
- Perfect for game day or casual family gatherings, it’s versatile enough for any occasion
Everyone who tasted this dish at my last family gathering couldn’t stop raving about it. The kids even declared it “the best thing ever!” For more inspiration, check out this Healthy air fryer recipes recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding. satay chicken skewers.
- Buffalo Sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade version for an extra kick of flavor.
- Pasta of Choice: Elbow macaroni is classic, but feel free to use shells or cavatappi for fun shapes.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar for added depth; it’s essential for that gooey texture.
- Cream Cheese: Adds creaminess and richness; ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Milk: Whole milk or half-and-half works best to achieve that creamy consistency.
- Onion Powder & Garlic Powder: These give flavor without overpowering the dish; fresh garlic can work too!
- Salt & Pepper: Basic seasoning to enhance all those delicious flavors.
- Green Onions (for garnish): They add a pop of color and freshness on top; don’t skip these!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling water in a large pot over high heat. Once boiling, add salt generously and toss in your pasta. Cook until al dente according to package instructions.
Sauté the Chicken: While your pasta cooks, heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of oil. Add diced chicken seasoned with salt and pepper. Sauté until golden brown and cooked through—about 6-8 minutes. For more inspiration, check out this Air fryer chicken drumsticks recipe.
Create the Cheese Sauce: In a separate saucepan over low heat, combine cream cheese and milk while stirring until melted together smoothly. Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese while whisking until fully melted.
Add Flavorings and Chicken: Stir in buffalo sauce along with garlic powder and onion powder into the cheese mixture. cheesy potatoes with kielbasa Toss in your sautéed chicken so every piece gets coated in cheesy goodness.
Combine Everything Together: Drain your cooked pasta and add it to the skillet with the chicken mixture. Stir gently until everything’s well combined and heated through—this should take about 2-3 minutes.
Garnish & Serve!: Transfer your Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese into serving bowls or a large platter. Sprinkle chopped green onions on top for that finishing touch before diving in!
Now that you’ve created this cheesy masterpiece, grab a fork (or two) because it’s time to dig in! The creamy texture paired with spicy buffalo sauce is like a party in your mouth—every bite is better than the last! Enjoy this delightful dish at any gathering or simply as an indulgent treat during movie night at home!
You Must Know
- This irresistible buffalo chicken mac and cheese recipe combines creamy texture with spicy flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser
- The aroma of melting cheese and spicy buffalo sauce creates an inviting kitchen environment
- Perfect for game days or cozy family dinners, this dish is sure to impress
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the pasta while you sauté the chicken in buffalo sauce, creating a flavorful base. Combine everything together at the end for perfect results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for shredded beef or tofu for a vegetarian option. Adding extra cheese or topping with breadcrumbs can elevate your dish even further.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave, adding a splash of milk for creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged to enhance meltability
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente to hold its shape
- Feel free to adjust spice levels according to your taste—it’s your kitchen, after all!
Cooking this dish always brings a smile to my face, especially when my friends come over and devour it like there’s no tomorrow. Their reactions are priceless!
FAQ
Can I use whole wheat pasta for this recipe?
Yes, whole wheat pasta works great and adds extra fiber to your meal.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add more buffalo sauce or include diced jalapeños for an extra kick!
What cheese works best for this mac and cheese?
Sharp cheddar is ideal, but mixing in mozzarella can add creaminess too.
Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the creamy, spicy goodness of Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese—a comfort food classic that combines tender chicken, zesty buffalo sauce, and gooey cheddar cheese. Perfect for game nights or cozy gatherings, this dish is sure to impress your friends and family. With every cheesy bite, you’ll experience a delightful explosion of flavors that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 8 oz elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot, add pasta, and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the chicken: In a skillet over medium-high heat, drizzle olive oil and sauté diced chicken seasoned with salt and pepper until golden brown, about 6-8 minutes.
- Make the cheese sauce: In a saucepan over low heat, combine cream cheese and milk until smooth. Gradually whisk in shredded cheddar until melted.
- Add flavors: Stir in buffalo sauce, onion powder, and garlic powder into the cheese mixture. Fold in the cooked chicken.
- Combine: Gently mix the drained pasta with the chicken-cheese mixture in the skillet until well-combined.
- Serve: Transfer to serving bowls or a platter and garnish with chopped green onions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg