Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of creamy mac and cheese and the fiery kick of buffalo wings, then this dish is made for you. The creamy cheese sauce is perfectly balanced by the sharp, tangy buffalo sauce, while the tender chicken adds protein and richness. Topped with extra cheese and baked to golden perfection, Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is a hearty, satisfying meal that will quickly become a favorite. It’s a crowd-pleasing comfort food with a little heat and a lot of flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)

• 1 lb elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta)

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 2 cups milk

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)

• 1/2 cup cream cheese

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles (optional)

• Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions, drain, and set aside.

3. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for about 1 minute to create a roux.

4. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook and whisk until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

5. Stir in the cheddar cheese and cream cheese, then continue to cook until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

6. Add the buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the sauce. Stir to combine.

7. Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the sauce, stirring until everything is well coated.

8. Pour the buffalo chicken mac and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with additional shredded cheese, if desired.

9. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden on top.

10. Remove from the oven and top with blue cheese crumbles (if using) and fresh parsley or green onions for garnish. Serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8 servings

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes

• Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes

• Total Time: 45-50 minutes

Variations

• Spicy kick: Add more buffalo sauce to increase the heat if you like it spicier.

• Cheese lovers: Use a blend of cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack for a creamier, more complex flavor.

• Vegetarian option: Skip the chicken and add roasted vegetables like cauliflower, broccoli, or bell peppers for a veggie-packed version.

• Topping ideas: You can top the mac and cheese with crushed tortilla chips for a bit of crunch or sprinkle with extra shredded cheese before baking for an extra cheesy finish.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of milk to loosen it up.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use cooked, shredded frozen chicken. Just be sure to thaw it before adding it to the mac and cheese.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the buffalo chicken mac and cheese up to the baking step and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready, just bake it until heated through.

3. Can I make this dish spicier?

Absolutely! You can add more buffalo sauce, sprinkle in some cayenne pepper, or toss in some finely chopped jalapeños to increase the heat level.

4. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like! Penne, rotini, or cavatappi are all great alternatives to elbow macaroni.

5. Can I use a different cheese besides cheddar?

Yes! Feel free to swap the cheddar cheese for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or any cheese you prefer. A mix of cheeses often adds a great depth of flavor.

6. Is there a substitute for blue cheese crumbles?

If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, you can leave it out or substitute it with feta cheese or goat cheese for a tangy flavor.

7. Can I make the buffalo chicken mac and cheese in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can. After making the cheese sauce on the stove, combine it with the cooked pasta and chicken in a slow cooker. Set it to low for about 1-2 hours until the cheese is fully melted and everything is warm.

8. Can I freeze leftover buffalo chicken mac and cheese?

Yes, you can freeze the mac and cheese in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

9. How can I make the cheese sauce creamier?

For a creamier sauce, you can add more cream cheese or even some heavy cream in place of part of the milk.

10. What can I serve with buffalo chicken mac and cheese?

This dish pairs perfectly with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or even some garlic bread to round out the meal.

Conclusion

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is a deliciously indulgent and comforting dish that brings together the best of two classic comfort foods: mac and cheese and buffalo chicken. The creamy, cheesy sauce, the spicy buffalo kick, and the tender chicken make this dish a perfect weeknight dinner or a special treat for any occasion. With its easy prep and endless possibilities for customization, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite.