Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

Looking for the ultimate comfort food that combines spicy buffalo chicken with creamy, cheesy pasta? This Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is the perfect dinner recipe to satisfy your cravings. With tender chicken, rich cheese sauce, and a crispy breadcrumb topping, this baked dish is a crowd-pleaser that works for weeknight dinners, game-day gatherings, or potlucks.

This easy homemade mac and cheese recipe is packed with flavor, requires simple ingredients, and comes together in under an hour. If you love buffalo wings and mac and cheese, this dish gives you the best of both worlds in one creamy, spicy bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines two comfort food classics: buffalo chicken and mac and cheese.
• Perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and spicy flavors.
• Easy to customize with your favorite cheese or spice level.
• Great for family dinners, parties, and meal prep.
• Budget-friendly and kid-approved (just adjust the spice).

Ingredients Breakdown

Before jumping into the cooking steps, let’s take a closer look at the star ingredients that make this dish irresistible:

• Rotini Pasta (12 oz): Rotini holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully, but you can also use elbow macaroni or penne.
• Cooked Chicken Breast (2 cups): Boneless, skinless chicken adds lean protein and pairs perfectly with buffalo sauce.
• Buffalo Sauce (½ cup): The star flavor—spicy, tangy, and bold. Adjust the amount to control heat levels.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese (1 cup): Brings a rich, tangy flavor that balances the heat of buffalo sauce.
• Cream Cheese (4 oz): Creates an ultra-creamy base for the cheese sauce.
• Butter (2 tbsp) & Flour (¼ cup): Used to create a roux, which thickens the sauce.
• Milk (2 cups): Provides creaminess and helps smooth out the cheese sauce.
• Panko Breadcrumbs (1 cup): Adds a golden, crispy topping for texture.
• Green Onions: A fresh garnish that cuts through the richness.

Tips and Tricks

• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Keep pasta slightly underdone before baking, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
• Shred Cheese at Home: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
• Control Heat Levels: For a milder dish, use less buffalo sauce or mix with ranch dressing.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the mac and cheese, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

Variations and Customizations

• Extra Cheesy: Add Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a gooey twist.
• Buffalo Ranch: Swirl in ranch dressing for a creamy, tangy balance.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and add roasted cauliflower or broccoli.
• Spicy Kick: Mix in diced jalapeños or top with hot sauce.

Pairing Suggestions

This buffalo mac and cheese pairs wonderfully with:

• Crisp green salads with ranch or blue cheese dressing.
• Garlic bread or cornbread.
• Roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or carrots.
• Game-day appetizers such as celery sticks or nachos.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave with a splash of milk to keep it creamy.

Popular Questions

Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Shredded rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time.

Q: Is buffalo chicken mac and cheese spicy?
It has a medium heat level, but you can adjust by using mild or hot buffalo sauce.

Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free pasta and substitute flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.