This Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is a fun twist on a classic! It’s creamy, cheesy, and has a kick from the spicy buffalo sauce mixed with tender chicken.
You can’t go wrong with this dish—it’s perfect for cozy nights or game days. I love adding extra cheese on top for that gooey finish. Who doesn’t love cheesy goodness? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Elbow macaroni is a classic choice, but you can also use cavatappi or penne. If gluten-free is what you need, there are many good gluten-free pasta options available now!
Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken works great for convenience. If you’re vegetarian, consider using shredded jackfruit or chickpeas for a plant-based option.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives it a nice tang, but you can use gouda, pepper jack for an extra kick, or even vegan cheese for a dairy-free option. I like blending several cheeses for a richer flavor!
Buffalo Sauce: Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to your spice level. If you want milder, use hot sauce or a mix of ranch seasoning for flavor without the heat.
How Do I Make Sure My Cheese Sauce is Perfectly Smooth?
Making a smooth cheese sauce is key for creamy mac and cheese. Here’s how to achieve that:
- Start with a roux of equal parts butter and flour, cooking it until lightly golden. This gives your sauce body.
- Gradually whisk in warmed milk instead of cold. This helps prevent lumps from forming.
- Keep stirring while the sauce thickens over medium heat. If it gets too thick, whisk in a bit more milk.
- Always add cheese off the heat, allowing it to melt without clumping. This is where the magic happens!
By following these steps, you’ll get a rich, velvety cheese sauce for your Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese! Enjoy!
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Mac And Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Pasta:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta
- For the Chicken:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter (for chicken)
- For the Cheese Sauce:
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk, warmed
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack or Colby Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For Garnish:
- Fresh chives or green onions, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese takes about 40 minutes to make—15 minutes for prep and 25 minutes for cooking and baking. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Cook the Pasta:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, following the package instructions. Once it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil or butter. Toss in the shredded chicken and lightly brown it for about 3-5 minutes for some lovely texture. Then, mix in about 1/3 cup of buffalo wing sauce, ensuring the chicken is well coated. Set this aside.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux and continue to cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly until it slightly changes color. Slowly pour in the warmed milk, whisking continuously to keep it smooth. Cook this mixture until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon—this should take about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the Cheeses:
Once your sauce is thickened, remove it from heat. Stir in all the shredded cheeses—cheddar, mozzarella, and Monterey Jack—until the mixture is beautifully melted and smooth. Add garlic powder, smoked paprika if you’re using it, and don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine Everything:
Gently mix the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until well combined. Then, fold in most of the buffalo chicken, keeping some to sprinkle on top later.
6. Bake the Dish:
Transfer your creamy mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish. Top it off with the reserved buffalo chicken pieces. Bake in your preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until it’s bubbly and the top begins to brown.
7. Garnish and Serve:
When done, take the dish out of the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh chives or green onions, and serve hot! You can add extra buffalo sauce or a side of ranch/blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Enjoy your creamy, spicy, and cheesy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is traditional, feel free to swap in gouda, pepper jack for heat, or even a vegan cheese mix for a dairy-free version. Just ensure it’s a melting cheese for that creamy texture.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you love spice, consider adding a touch more buffalo sauce to the chicken or mixing in some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes into the cheese sauce for an extra kick.
Can I Make Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese up to the baking step. Just store it covered in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, simply bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
What Are the Best Leftover Storage Tips?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of milk if it seems dry to maintain creaminess.
