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Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 487 reviews

This Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese combines creamy, cheesy pasta with spicy buffalo chicken for a deliciously comforting twist on a classic favorite. Perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner, it features rotini pasta smothered in a rich cheese sauce, tender chicken tossed in buffalo sauce, and a crispy breadcrumb topping for added texture.

Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

  • 12 oz rotini pasta
  • 2 cups cooked, diced boneless skinless chicken breast
  • 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 4 oz cream cheese
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for topping)
  • 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Chicken: In a medium bowl, toss the cooked, diced chicken breast with buffalo sauce until well coated. Set aside.
  3. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes to make a roux, stirring constantly until golden and bubbly. Gradually whisk in milk, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens and is smooth, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add Cheeses: Reduce heat to low, then add the cream cheese and shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the sauce. Stir until all cheeses melt and the sauce is creamy and homogenous.
  5. Combine Pasta and Chicken: Add the cooked pasta and buffalo chicken mixture to the cheese sauce. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly, ensuring the pasta is well-coated with the sauce and buffalo flavor.
  6. Prepare the Topping: In a small pan, toast the panko breadcrumbs over medium heat until golden brown and crisp. This step adds crunch and improves flavor.
  7. Assemble and Serve: Transfer the buffalo chicken mac and cheese to serving bowls or a baking dish if desired. Sprinkle the toasted panko breadcrumbs on top and garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

  • For extra heat, add more buffalo sauce or sprinkle with cayenne pepper.
  • Use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut.
  • To make it gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated covered in the oven or microwave.
  • For a creamier texture, add a splash of milk when reheating.

Keywords: Buffalo Chicken, Mac and Cheese, Buffalo Sauce, Comfort Food, Cheesy Pasta, Spicy Chicken

Find it online: https://spatulaqueen.com/buffalo-chicken-mac-and-cheese-recipe/