Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy comfort food with the bold, spicy kick of Buffalo chicken. If you’re a fan of classic mac and cheese but crave an extra layer of flavor and heat, this dish is exactly what you need. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner, game day, or a potluck, this recipe is sure to impress.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making the best Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese. From step-by-step instructions to expert tips and FAQs, this article covers it all. By the end, you’ll be ready to make a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
- Rich and Creamy: A luscious cheese sauce coats every bite of pasta and chicken.
- Spicy and Flavorful: The hot sauce brings the perfect level of heat and tanginess.
- Easy to Make: With the help of rotisserie chicken, this dish comes together quickly.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a party dish, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
Ingredients:
- 16 ounces elbow macaroni
- 1 rotisserie-roasted chicken, shredded
- 6 tablespoons butter
- 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- Pinch of ground black pepper
- 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s® RedHot®), or more to taste
- 1/2 cup crumbled Gorgonzola cheese
Step-by-Step Directions:
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions (about 8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, remove the skin and bones from the rotisserie chicken and shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce
- Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and bubbly (about 2 minutes).
- Gradually whisk in the milk and continue stirring until the mixture thickens (about 5 minutes).
- Season with a pinch of ground black pepper.
4. Add the Cheeses
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until the sauce is melted and smooth.
5. Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce
Add the cooked macaroni and shredded chicken to the cheese sauce. Stir until everything is well coated.
6. Add Buffalo Sauce
Pour in the hot sauce and mix well, adjusting to taste.
7. Serve and Garnish
Transfer the mac and cheese to a serving dish and sprinkle with crumbled Gorgonzola cheese for the perfect finishing touch.
Pro Tips for the Best Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
- Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of your sauce.
- Adjust the Spice Level: Add more or less hot sauce to suit your heat tolerance.
- Bake for a Crispy Top: Transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs, and broil for a few minutes for a crispy crust.
- Make it Creamier: Stir in a little cream cheese for an ultra-rich sauce.
- Add Extra Protein: Stir in crispy bacon or extra chicken for added heartiness.
FAQs About Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
1. Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use penne, shells, cavatappi, or rotini for a fun twist.
2. Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prepare everything up to the Buffalo sauce step, refrigerate, and reheat before serving. Add extra milk if needed to loosen the sauce.
3. What’s the Best Way to Reheat Leftovers?
Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring in a splash of milk to restore the creamy texture. Avoid microwaving too long, as it can make the cheese sauce grainy.
4. Can I Make This Recipe in the Oven?
Yes! After combining everything, transfer it to a baking dish, top with cheese or breadcrumbs, and bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes.
5. Can I Use Blue Cheese Instead of Gorgonzola?
Absolutely! Blue cheese crumbles add an extra punch of bold flavor.
Conclusion
Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is the perfect fusion of two beloved comfort foods: creamy mac and cheese and spicy Buffalo chicken. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in or a big gathering, this dish is sure to be a hit. With its rich cheese sauce, tender chicken, and just the right amount of spice, it’s a meal that delivers big flavor in every bite. Try this recipe today and experience the ultimate comfort food with a kick!