Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese Delightfully Creamy Dish

Name: Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces elbow macaroni; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (preferably rotisserie); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (adjust to taste); 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup milk; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; to taste salt and pepper; for garnish fresh parsley, chopped

by Elizabeth on November 6, 2024

Are you ready to indulge in a dish that’s both comforting and thrilling? Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese brings together creamy cheese, tender chicken, and a spicy kick that will leave your taste buds dancing. In this post, I’ll guide you step-by-step to create this delightful meal, perfect for any night in or game day feast. Let’s dive into making this heartwarming dish that combines the best of both worlds!

$- 8 ounces elbow macaroni - 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (preferably rotisserie) - 1/2 cup buffalo sauce Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese needs three main ingredients. First, we have elbow macaroni, which gives the dish its classic shape. Next is shredded chicken; I suggest using rotisserie chicken for ease and flavor. Lastly, buffalo sauce adds that iconic spicy kick. - 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese - 1 cup cream cheese, softened - 1/2 cup milk Now, let's talk about the creamy goodness! Sharp cheddar cheese brings a rich taste. Cream cheese adds smoothness, making the dish ultra-creamy. Milk helps to blend everything together. This mix creates that delightful, cheesy texture. - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) - Additional spice options (if desired) For a pop of color and taste, consider fresh parsley as a garnish. You can also add more spices if you like it hotter. This allows you to customize your dish based on your heat preference. {{ingredient_image_1}} First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. This is key to getting the pasta just right. Next, add 8 ounces of elbow macaroni to the boiling water. Cook it until it's al dente, which takes about 7-9 minutes. You want it firm but not hard. Once cooked, drain the macaroni and set it aside. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 small finely chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes. You want the onion to be translucent, which means it’s soft and clear. Now, stir in 2 cups of shredded chicken. You can use rotisserie chicken for the best flavor. Pour in 1/2 cup of buffalo sauce and mix well. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. This lets the chicken soak up all those spicy flavors. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, chicken mixture, 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1 cup of softened cream cheese, and 1/2 cup of milk. Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1 teaspoon of onion powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together until it’s fully mixed. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once preheated, transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Spread it evenly in the dish. Bake it for about 20-25 minutes. You want the cheese to be bubbly and slightly golden on top. When it's done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your creamy, spicy dish! To make a creamy cheese sauce, start with room temperature cream cheese. This helps it blend in smoothly. Use a mix of cheddar and cream cheese for great flavor. Stir slowly over low heat to melt things together. Avoid cooking the sauce too fast, as high heat can make it grainy. If you notice clumps, whisk it more. Keeping the heat lower helps to avoid clumping of cheese. Buffalo sauce can be spicy. If you want it milder, add less sauce or mix in some cream. This will help cool down the heat. For a touch of sweetness, try adding a bit of honey. You can always add more buffalo sauce later if you want more spice. Taste as you go to find what works best for you. Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese pairs well with fresh side dishes. A simple green salad adds crunch and freshness. You can also serve it with celery sticks and blue cheese for that classic buffalo flavor. For drinks, try a cold beer or a refreshing lemonade. These pair well and balance the rich flavors of the dish. Enjoy making it your own! Pro Tips Use Rotisserie Chicken: Opting for rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor to your mac and cheese. Adjust the Heat: Feel free to modify the amount of buffalo sauce based on your spice preference for a milder or hotter dish. Mix Cheeses: Combine different types of cheese, like mozzarella or pepper jack, for a unique flavor profile and creaminess. Let it Rest: Allowing the mac and cheese to cool for a few minutes after baking helps it set, making it easier to serve. {{image_2}} You can use more than just elbow macaroni. Try penne, shells, or rotini. Each type adds a unique texture. If you need gluten-free options, look for brown rice pasta or chickpea pasta. Both work well and taste great. Shredded rotisserie chicken is easy and tasty. You can also use grilled chicken or leftover chicken from other meals. For a vegetarian twist, try cauliflower or chickpeas. Both options add bulk and soak up the sauce. Add veggies for more flavor. Spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli bring color and nutrition. You can also mix different cheeses. Gouda, mozzarella, or pepper jack can spice things up. Each cheese gives a new taste to your dish and makes it extra creamy. To cool your Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. Make sure to store it in the fridge. Your leftovers will last for about 3 to 4 days. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating. You can freeze this dish for longer storage. First, let it cool completely. Then, place the mac and cheese in a freezer-safe container. Seal it tightly. This dish can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to eat it, move it to the fridge to thaw overnight. To reheat, place it in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Adding a splash of milk can help keep the texture creamy. To reheat, the best method is to use the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the mac and cheese in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to help keep moisture in. Bake for about 20 minutes. You can also use a microwave. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. This way, you avoid drying out the dish. Yes, you can make Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese in advance. To do this, follow these tips: - Prepare the dish up to the baking step. - Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. - You can keep it for up to two days. - When ready to bake, remove the wrap and let it sit for 15 minutes. - Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until hot and bubbly. Yes, you can adapt the recipe for a slow cooker. Here’s how: - Cook the elbow macaroni until just under al dente. - In the slow cooker, mix the chicken, buffalo sauce, onion, and garlic. - Add the cooked macaroni, cheeses, and milk. - Stir well and cook on low for 2-3 hours. - Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and creamy texture. If you need a substitute for cream cheese, here are some options: - Use Greek yogurt for a healthier twist. - Sour cream works well, adding a nice tang. - Cottage cheese blended until smooth is another choice. - For a dairy-free option, try cashew cream. Each option will change the flavor slightly, so choose what fits your taste best. Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is a fun, tasty dish you can make easily. We explored the main ingredients, like elbow macaroni and shredded chicken. I shared step-by-step cooking and baking tips to create a creamy texture. You can change the recipe with different pasta or chicken types. Lastly, I provided storage tips for any leftovers and answered common questions about the dish. With this guide, you'll impress everyone at your next meal. Enjoy making your own Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese!$

Why I Love This Recipe

Comforting and Hearty: This Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is the perfect comfort food, combining creamy cheese sauce with tender chicken and pasta for a satisfying meal.
Flavor Packed: The addition of buffalo sauce gives this dish a spicy kick, making it stand out from traditional mac and cheese recipes.
Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Customizable: You can easily adjust the level of spiciness by using more or less buffalo sauce, catering to your personal taste.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

– 8 ounces elbow macaroni

– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (preferably rotisserie)

– 1/2 cup buffalo sauce

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese needs three main ingredients. First, we have elbow macaroni, which gives the dish its classic shape. Next is shredded chicken; I suggest using rotisserie chicken for ease and flavor. Lastly, buffalo sauce adds that iconic spicy kick.

Dairy Ingredients

– 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

– 1 cup cream cheese, softened

– 1/2 cup milk

Now, let’s talk about the creamy goodness! Sharp cheddar cheese brings a rich taste. Cream cheese adds smoothness, making the dish ultra-creamy. Milk helps to blend everything together. This mix creates that delightful, cheesy texture.

Optional Ingredients

– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

– Additional spice options (if desired)

For a pop of color and taste, consider fresh parsley as a garnish. You can also add more spices if you like it hotter. This allows you to customize your dish based on your heat preference.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Pasta

First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. This is key to getting the pasta just right. Next, add 8 ounces of elbow macaroni to the boiling water. Cook it until it’s al dente, which takes about 7-9 minutes. You want it firm but not hard. Once cooked, drain the macaroni and set it aside.

Preparing the Chicken Mixture

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 small finely chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes. You want the onion to be translucent, which means it’s soft and clear. Now, stir in 2 cups of shredded chicken. You can use rotisserie chicken for the best flavor. Pour in 1/2 cup of buffalo sauce and mix well. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. This lets the chicken soak up all those spicy flavors.

Mixing and Baking

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, chicken mixture, 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1 cup of softened cream cheese, and 1/2 cup of milk. Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1 teaspoon of onion powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together until it’s fully mixed. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once preheated, transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Spread it evenly in the dish. Bake it for about 20-25 minutes. You want the cheese to be bubbly and slightly golden on top. When it’s done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your creamy, spicy dish!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Cheese Sauce

To make a creamy cheese sauce, start with room temperature cream cheese. This helps it blend in smoothly. Use a mix of cheddar and cream cheese for great flavor. Stir slowly over low heat to melt things together. Avoid cooking the sauce too fast, as high heat can make it grainy. If you notice clumps, whisk it more. Keeping the heat lower helps to avoid clumping of cheese.

Adjusting Heat Levels

Buffalo sauce can be spicy. If you want it milder, add less sauce or mix in some cream. This will help cool down the heat. For a touch of sweetness, try adding a bit of honey. You can always add more buffalo sauce later if you want more spice. Taste as you go to find what works best for you.

Serving Suggestions

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese pairs well with fresh side dishes. A simple green salad adds crunch and freshness. You can also serve it with celery sticks and blue cheese for that classic buffalo flavor. For drinks, try a cold beer or a refreshing lemonade. These pair well and balance the rich flavors of the dish. Enjoy making it your own!

Pro Tips

Use Rotisserie Chicken: Opting for rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor to your mac and cheese.
Adjust the Heat: Feel free to modify the amount of buffalo sauce based on your spice preference for a milder or hotter dish.
Mix Cheeses: Combine different types of cheese, like mozzarella or pepper jack, for a unique flavor profile and creaminess.
Let it Rest: Allowing the mac and cheese to cool for a few minutes after baking helps it set, making it easier to serve.

Variations

Different Types of Pasta

You can use more than just elbow macaroni. Try penne, shells, or rotini. Each type adds a unique texture. If you need gluten-free options, look for brown rice pasta or chickpea pasta. Both work well and taste great.

Alternative Chicken Options

Shredded rotisserie chicken is easy and tasty. You can also use grilled chicken or leftover chicken from other meals. For a vegetarian twist, try cauliflower or chickpeas. Both options add bulk and soak up the sauce.

Additional Flavor Enhancements

Add veggies for more flavor. Spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli bring color and nutrition. You can also mix different cheeses. Gouda, mozzarella, or pepper jack can spice things up. Each cheese gives a new taste to your dish and makes it extra creamy.

Storage Info

Refrigerating Leftovers

To cool your Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. Make sure to store it in the fridge. Your leftovers will last for about 3 to 4 days. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating.

Freezing Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

You can freeze this dish for longer storage. First, let it cool completely. Then, place the mac and cheese in a freezer-safe container. Seal it tightly. This dish can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, move it to the fridge to thaw overnight.

To reheat, place it in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Adding a splash of milk can help keep the texture creamy.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat, the best method is to use the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the mac and cheese in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to help keep moisture in. Bake for about 20 minutes. You can also use a microwave. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. This way, you avoid drying out the dish.

FAQs

Can I make Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese in advance?

Yes, you can make Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese in advance. To do this, follow these tips:

– Prepare the dish up to the baking step.

– Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge.

– You can keep it for up to two days.

– When ready to bake, remove the wrap and let it sit for 15 minutes.

– Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until hot and bubbly.

Is it possible to use a slow cooker?

Yes, you can adapt the recipe for a slow cooker. Here’s how:

– Cook the elbow macaroni until just under al dente.

– In the slow cooker, mix the chicken, buffalo sauce, onion, and garlic.

– Add the cooked macaroni, cheeses, and milk.

– Stir well and cook on low for 2-3 hours.

– Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and creamy texture.

What can I substitute for cream cheese?

If you need a substitute for cream cheese, here are some options:

– Use Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.

– Sour cream works well, adding a nice tang.

– Cottage cheese blended until smooth is another choice.

– For a dairy-free option, try cashew cream.

Each option will change the flavor slightly, so choose what fits your taste best.

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is a fun, tasty dish you can make easily. We explored the main ingredients, like elbow macaroni and shredded chicken. I shared step-by-step cooking and baking tips to create a creamy texture. You can change the recipe with different pasta or chicken types. Lastly, I provided storage tips for any leftovers and answered common questions about the dish. With this guide, you’ll impress everyone at your next meal. Enjoy making your own Buffalo Chicken Mac and Chees

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

A creamy and spicy twist on classic mac and cheese with shredded chicken and buffalo sauce.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 35

Total Time 50

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 600 kcal

Ingredients

8 ounces elbow macaroni
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (preferably rotisserie)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup buffalo sauce (adjust to taste)
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
to taste salt and pepper
for garnish fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and garlic; sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
Stir in the shredded chicken and buffalo sauce, mixing well. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, chicken mixture, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is fully incorporated.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden on top.
Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

Adjust the buffalo sauce to your preferred spice level.

Keyword buffalo chicken, comfort food, mac and cheese