Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Mac

If you’re craving a creamy, spicy, and utterly comforting meal, this Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Mac is about to become your new favorite dish. It’s everything you love about mac and cheese but with a fiery buffalo twist and tender shredded chicken folded in for extra protein and flavor. This recipe balances the zing of buffalo sauce with the smoothness of melted cheeses, making it an ideal weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser for casual gatherings. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and uses simple pantry staples that you likely have on hand. Get ready to dive into a bowl of cheesy, spicy goodness!

Why This Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Mac Stands Out

This Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Mac stands out because it masterfully combines two beloved comfort foods: classic mac and cheese and spicy buffalo chicken. Unlike traditional mac and cheese, this recipe infuses bold buffalo flavor throughout the creamy cheese sauce, creating a perfect harmony of heat and richness without overpowering the palate. The blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses gives it a luscious texture and gooey pull that’s hard to resist. The shredded chicken adds heartiness and makes this dish a complete meal. It’s versatile enough to serve as a main course or a side dish and is sure to satisfy both kids and adults alike.

What truly makes this recipe special is its balance of flavors and textures—from the tender elbow macaroni and creamy sauce to the spicy kick of buffalo sauce and the fresh crunch of green onions on top. If you love buffalo chicken wings and mac and cheese, this dish is your dream come true.

The Ingredient Lineup

• 2 cups elbow macaroni: The perfect pasta shape to hold onto the creamy sauce.
• 2 tablespoons butter: Provides richness and helps create the roux for the cheese sauce.
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the cheese sauce to a velvety consistency.
• 2 cups milk: The base of the creamy cheese sauce.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds sharpness and depth of flavor.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Brings meltiness and stretch to the dish.
• 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded: Protein-packed and perfectly tender to complement the sauce.
• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce: The star ingredient that delivers the signature spicy kick.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances savory notes in the sauce.
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Adds subtle sweetness and depth.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Balances and brightens the flavors.
• Chopped green onions for garnish: Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color.

Kitchen Gear Checklist

• Large pot: To boil the macaroni until al dente.
• Medium saucepan: For making the cheese sauce.
• Wooden spoon or whisk: To stir the roux and sauce smoothly.
• Colander: To drain the cooked macaroni.
• Mixing bowl: To combine macaroni, chicken, and sauce, if preferred.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient portions.
• Cheese grater: If shredding cheese yourself for freshness.

Build Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Mac Step by Step

Step 1: Cook the Macaroni

Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil. Add 2 cups of elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta well and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste and create a roux.

Step 3: Add Milk and Seasonings

Gradually pour in 2 cups of milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Continue whisking as the mixture thickens, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon each of garlic powder and onion powder, plus salt and pepper to your liking.

Step 4: Melt in the Cheese

Lower the heat and add 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir until melted and smooth, creating a rich and creamy cheese sauce.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Buffalo Sauce

In a separate bowl, toss 1 cup of shredded cooked chicken with 1/2 cup of buffalo sauce until evenly coated. This step ensures every bite has that signature buffalo heat.

Step 6: Mix Everything Together

Add the cooked macaroni and buffalo chicken to the cheese sauce. Stir gently to combine everything thoroughly, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated with the spicy, cheesy sauce.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Transfer to serving bowls and sprinkle with chopped green onions for a fresh crunch and pop of color. Serve immediately while hot and melty.

Holiday-Friendly Variations

• Cheesy Baked Buffalo Chicken Pasta: For a crispy topping, transfer the mac to a baking dish, sprinkle with extra cheese and breadcrumbs, then bake until golden and bubbly. Check out this Cheesy Baked Buffalo Chicken Pasta for inspiration.
• Added Veggies: Stir in steamed broccoli or peas for a pop of green and extra nutrients, inspired by dishes like Roasted Broccoli Cheddar Macaroni.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the sauce for those who like it extra fiery.
• Cheese Swap: Use pepper jack cheese instead of mozzarella for a spicy, melty alternative reminiscent of the Baked Three Cheese Chicken Penne.

Notes on Ingredients

• Chicken: Use pre-cooked, shredded chicken breast or thighs. Rotisserie chicken works great for convenience and flavor.
• Buffalo Sauce: Choose your favorite brand or make your own by mixing hot sauce with melted butter.
• Cheeses: Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents.
• Milk: Whole milk is best for creaminess, but 2% works well too.
• Butter and Flour: These create a roux that thickens the sauce; don’t skip this step for the perfect texture.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

This Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Mac reheats beautifully, making it a perfect meal prep option. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating. Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of milk to bring back the creamy texture.

For freezer storage, portion the mac into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Ask & Learn

Can I make this recipe with other pasta shapes?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use penne, shells, or rotini. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the pasta is al dente.

How spicy is the buffalo sauce in this dish?

The heat level depends on the buffalo sauce brand you choose. If you prefer milder heat, use less sauce or opt for a milder version. You can always add more if you want extra spice.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and consider adding plant-based protein like tofu or chickpeas. You could also increase the veggies to keep the dish hearty.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the cheese sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time, then combine and reheat when ready. For best texture, mix everything just before serving.

Don’t Miss These

• Cheesy Baked Buffalo Chicken Pasta – A baked version for extra cheesy goodness.
• Baked Three Cheese Chicken Penne – A rich and cheesy pasta bake with a trio of cheeses.
• Roasted Broccoli Cheddar Macaroni – A veggie-packed mac and cheese with roasted broccoli.

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to make this incredible Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Mac. Gather your ingredients, prep your kitchen gear, and follow the simple steps to create a meal that’s bursting with flavor and comfort. Whether you’re feeding the family or looking to impress guests, this creamy, spicy mac and cheese dish is sure to please. Enjoy every cheesy, buffalo-spiced bite!

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