Have you ever craved a dish that perfectly balances comfort and excitement? Imagine a creamy bowl of mac and cheese infused with the bold flavors of buffalo chicken. This Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is not only mouthwateringly good but also incredibly satisfying. With every bite, you’ll experience the tender chicken coated in zesty buffalo sauce, harmonizing beautifully with gooey cheese and al dente pasta.

This dish is perfect for game days, family gatherings, or a cozy night in. It’s easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. As you pull it from the oven, the aroma will fill your kitchen with warmth that invites everyone to dig in. This recipe promises to deliver an unforgettable flavor experience that will keep you coming back for more!

Why You’ll Love This Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

• Comfort Food at Its Best: There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of mac and cheese to soothe the soul, especially when it’s enhanced with spicy buffalo chicken.
• Quick and Easy Preparation: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
• Customizable Heat Levels: Adjust the spiciness to your liking! Use mild buffalo sauce for a milder flavor or extra hot sauce for those who crave heat.

Ingredients for Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Macaroni Pasta: I recommend using elbow macaroni as it holds onto the cheese sauce perfectly.
• Boneless Chicken Thighs: Tender thighs are ideal for this recipe; they stay juicy after cooking.
• Buffalo Sauce: Choose your favorite brand; this ingredient adds that signature kick.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar provides an intense flavor that complements the dish nicely.
• Cream Cheese: Creamy goodness that helps bind the sauce together while adding richness.

For the Sauce:

• Milk: Whole milk works best; it creates a creamier texture in the final dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, prepare a baking dish by greasing it lightly with cooking spray.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken

In a skillet over medium heat, cook diced boneless chicken thighs until browned and fully cooked through (about 6-8 minutes). Add buffalo sauce during the last few minutes of cooking.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

In another saucepan over medium heat, melt cream cheese. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, buffalo chicken mixture, and cheese sauce. Mix well until everything is coated evenly.

Step 6: Bake

Transfer everything into your prepared baking dish. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until bubbly on top.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with additional buffalo sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Cooking pasta slightly under will prevent it from becoming mushy during baking.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cheeses melt better than pre-shredded varieties; consider grating your own for optimal texture.
• Add Toppings: Consider sprinkling breadcrumbs on top before baking for an added crunch!

Mistakes to avoid

• Overcooking the Pasta: One common mistake when making Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is overcooking the pasta. Cooking it too long can lead to mushy noodles that ruin the dish’s texture. Always cook the pasta until it is al dente, as it will continue to cook when mixed with the sauce and in the oven. This ensures a firm bite and enhances the overall experience of your meal.
• Using Low-Quality Cheese: The cheese you choose can greatly affect the flavor and creaminess of your Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese. Avoid using low-quality or pre-shredded cheese, as these often contain additives that prevent melting properly. Instead, opt for high-quality cheeses like sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack. Grating fresh cheese will provide a smoother consistency and richer taste.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Failing to season your dish adequately can result in bland Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese. While the buffalo sauce adds heat, don’t forget about salt and pepper. Taste your sauce before mixing it with the pasta and chicken to ensure it has enough flavor. You might also want to add garlic powder or onion powder for an extra kick of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Garlic Bread: The crispy texture of garlic bread complements the creamy mac and cheese, making it a perfect side dish. It adds a flavorful crunch that enhances your meal.
• Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar salad provides a nice contrast to the rich flavors of Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese. The crisp romaine lettuce and tangy dressing balance the meal beautifully.
• Steamed Broccoli: For a healthier option, serve your Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese with steamed broccoli. This adds color to your plate and increases the nutritional value of your meal.

FAQs

What ingredients do I need for Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese?

To prepare Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese, gather essential ingredients like elbow macaroni, cooked chicken, buffalo sauce, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, milk, butter, and spices such as garlic powder and paprika. These components create a rich flavor that defines this dish. You can adjust the level of spiciness by varying the amount of buffalo sauce you use. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different cheeses for added creaminess or flavor complexity.

Can I make Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese in advance?

Absolutely! Preparing Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese in advance is possible and can be very convenient. Simply assemble the dish up to the baking stage, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just remove it from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then bake as directed. This allows for easy meal prep without sacrificing flavor.

How can I make this mac and cheese spicier?

If you love heat, there are several ways to amp up the spice level in your Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese. You can increase the amount of buffalo sauce used or add some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes into the cheese mixture. Another great option is to mix in pepper jack cheese along with cheddar for an extra kick. Make sure to taste as you go so you achieve your desired level of spiciness.

What can I substitute for chicken in this recipe?

If you want to make a vegetarian version of Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese or need a substitute for chicken, consider using shredded jackfruit or crumbled tempeh. Both options absorb flavors well and have textures similar to pulled chicken. Alternatively, roasted vegetables like cauliflower or mushrooms provide hearty substitutes while adding depth to the dish’s taste profile.

Conclusion for Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

In summary, Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is an indulgent dish that combines creamy cheese sauce with spicy buffalo-flavored chicken for a comforting meal everyone will love. It’s simple to prepare yet offers delightful flavors that make it stand out at any table.

• Garlic Butter Chicken
• Irresistible Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne Recipe
• Easy Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo Recipe

Print

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

---

• Author: Mery Mack
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delightful twist on the classic comfort food that combines creamy cheese sauce with the bold flavors of buffalo chicken.

---

Ingredients

• Elbow macaroni
• Boneless chicken thighs
• Buffalo sauce
• Sharp cheddar cheese
• Cream cheese
• Whole milk

---

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Cook elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente; drain.
3. In a skillet, cook diced chicken thighs until browned; add buffalo sauce towards the end.
4. In a saucepan, melt cream cheese, whisk in milk until smooth; then stir in shredded cheddar until melted.
5. Combine cooked macaroni, buffalo chicken, and cheese sauce in a large bowl.
6. Transfer to the baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 540
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: For added crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top before baking. Adjust spice level by selecting mild or hot buffalo sauce based on preference.