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Homemade Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Mac recipe photo

Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Mac

This Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Mac is a creamy, spicy comfort meal with tender shredded chicken and gooey cheeses—perfect for a quick, delicious dinner!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Medium Saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or whisk
  • Colander
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cheese Grater

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • salt to taste
  • pepper to taste
  • chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions
 

  • 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, about 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta well and set aside.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • In a separate bowl, toss 1 cup of shredded cooked chicken with 1/2 cup of buffalo sauce until evenly coated.
  • 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.
  • Transfer to serving bowls and sprinkle with chopped green onions for a fresh crunch and pop of color. Serve immediately while hot and melty.

Notes

  • Use pre-cooked shredded chicken like rotisserie for convenience and flavor.
  • Freshly shred your cheeses for a smoother, meltier sauce.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Keyword Buffalo, chicken, Comfort Food, Easy, Mac and Cheese, Quick