This Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is a fun twist on two favorites! It combines creamy, cheesy pasta with spicy buffalo chicken, making it a comfort food superstar.
You’ll love how the heat of the buffalo sauce mixes perfectly with the gooey cheese. I usually add extra cheese on top for that melty goodness—who can resist more cheese? 🧀
Making this dish is super easy! Just cook the pasta, mix in the chicken and sauce, and bake. It’s quick to whip up, and leftovers (if there are any) are so delicious for lunch!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This pasta shape is classic for mac and cheese. You can swap it for any small pasta like shells, cavatappi, or even gluten-free pasta if needed.
Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is my go-to for easy prep. You can also use leftover chicken or even canned chicken if you’re in a rush!
Cheeses: Sharp cheddar brings great flavor, while mozzarella adds creaminess. If you prefer, try Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a little extra heat.
Buffalo Wing Sauce: Adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance. For a milder version, you could use a barbecue sauce mixed with a little hot sauce instead!
Cream Cheese: This ingredient adds richness. If you’re avoiding dairy, try dairy-free cream cheese or omit it entirely for a lighter dish.
How Do I Create a Creamy Cheese Sauce Without Lumps?
Making a smooth cheese sauce can be tricky. The key is in how you mix the flour and milk. Start with a roux by melting butter and whisking in flour. Cook for a minute to get rid of the raw flour taste.
- Gradually add the milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Using room temperature milk can help too!
- Keep stirring until the sauce thickens. If it gets too thick, just add a splash more milk.
- Once thick, lower the heat before adding cheeses. This keeps the cheese from clumping together.
By whisking continuously and adding ingredients slowly, you’ll ensure a creamy and delightful sauce for your mac and cheese!
Buffalo Chicken Mac And Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni or other small pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup Buffalo wing sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup sour cream or ranch dressing (optional, for creaminess)
- Chopped chives or green onions, for garnish
- Extra Buffalo sauce, for drizzling on top
- Paprika or cayenne pepper, for garnish (optional)
Time Needed:
This Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and cooking the macaroni and cheese sauce, plus about 15-20 minutes baking if you choose to bake it. Super quick and so worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
If you want a baked version, start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Macaroni:
Boil the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, whisk in the flour to make a paste, stirring for about 1-2 minutes until it’s light golden. This will give your sauce a nice base.
4. Add Milk Gradually:
Slowly whisk in the milk, making sure there are no lumps. Keep whisking and cooking until the sauce is thick and starts bubbling gently – you want that creamy goodness!
5. Stir in the Cream Cheese:
Lower the heat and add the softened cream cheese, stirring until it’s melted and smooth. This richness will take your sauce to the next level!
6. Add the Cheeses:
Now sprinkle in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Mix well until it’s all melted and you have a deliciously creamy cheese sauce.
7. Season It Up:
Stir in our flavor boosters: garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Taste your sauce and adjust the seasonings as you like.
8. Mix in the Buffalo Sauce:
Pour in the Buffalo wing sauce and stir until the cheese and sauce are well combined. Adjust the amount of sauce to make it as spicy as you’d like!
9. Combine with Pasta and Chicken:
Gently fold in the cooked macaroni and the shredded chicken, ensuring everything is well-coated in the spicy, cheesy mixture.
10. (Optional) Add More Creaminess:
If you’d like an extra rich dish, mix in sour cream or ranch dressing at this stage.
11. Bake It (Optional):
If you love a baked mac and cheese, transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and slightly brown on top.
12. Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven (or straight off the stovetop), top with a dollop of sour cream or ranch, a drizzle of extra Buffalo sauce, and sprinkle with chopped chives or green onions. A dash of paprika or cayenne pepper on top is a great optional touch!
13. Enjoy!
Dig in while it’s hot, and revel in the creamy texture and spicy kick of your Buffalo Chicken Mac And Cheese!
This dish is perfect for any comfort food craving or for serving up at a gathering with friends and family! Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, feel free to use any small pasta like shells, fusilli, or cavatappi. Gluten-free pasta works well too if needed!
What Can I Substitute for Buffalow Wing Sauce?
If you’re looking for a milder flavor, try a mix of barbecue sauce and a splash of hot sauce. You could also experiment with sauces like sriracha or a homemade hot sauce blend for different flavor profiles.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the mac and cheese up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, just pop it in the oven—may need a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to achieve that creamy consistency again.