Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe – Creamy and Spicy Comfort

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort dish with a spicy kick. Tender pasta, creamy cheese sauce, and juicy chicken come together under a crispy topping. It’s quick to prepare, made with simple pantry ingredients, and perfect for busy nights. With a tangy buffalo flavor and golden baked crust, this cozy dinner will quickly become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

This Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese delivers everything you want in one dish. It’s creamy from the cheddar and cream cheese, spicy from the buffalo sauce, and crunchy from the buttery panko topping. Every bite is rich, comforting, and loaded with flavor. Plus, it’s simple to make and bakes in under half an hour. Your family will love it for weeknight dinners, and it’s also a winning choice for game day gatherings. Serve it hot from the oven, and you’ll have a dish that pleases both spice-lovers and cheese fans.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Main Ingredients

• Rotini pasta (12 oz): Holds the creamy sauce beautifully with its spirals.
• Cooked, diced chicken breast (2 cups): Adds protein and hearty bites.
• Buffalo sauce (½ cup): Brings that bold, tangy heat.
• Sharp cheddar cheese (1 cup shredded): Melts into a flavorful, gooey base.
• Cream cheese (4 oz): Adds smooth, velvety creaminess.
• Butter (2 tbsp) and flour (¼ cup): Form a roux that thickens the sauce.
• Milk (2 cups): Creates a rich, silky cheese sauce.

Toppings and Garnishes

• Panko breadcrumbs (1 cup): Bake up golden and crisp.
• Green onions (sliced): Add fresh, sharp contrast.
• Extra buffalo sauce (optional): Drizzle for extra spice at serving time.

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

Cook the Pasta and Chicken

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini and cook until al dente, then drain and set aside. Meanwhile, sauté the diced chicken in a skillet with a little oil, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes until golden and fully cooked.

Make the Creamy Buffalo Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to form a roux and whisk until slightly golden. Slowly add the milk, whisking constantly until smooth and thickened. Stir in the cream cheese until melted, then add shredded cheddar and buffalo sauce. Mix until the sauce is creamy, spicy, and silky.

Combine, Top, and Bake

Add the pasta and chicken into the sauce, stirring until everything is well coated. Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs evenly on top for crunch. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly. Garnish with sliced green onions and drizzle extra buffalo sauce if desired.

Recipe Notes and Pro Tips

For more flavor, marinate the chicken in buffalo sauce overnight. If you love gooey tops, reserve a handful of shredded cheese to sprinkle before baking. Let the cheese sauce thicken slowly on medium heat so it stays creamy instead of grainy. You can also save time by boiling pasta while preparing the sauce. For weeknight ease, assemble the dish ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve.

Variations to Try

Switch up the protein by using shredded beef, rotisserie chicken, or tofu for a vegetarian option. Try Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder, melty cheese profile. Add vegetables like broccoli florets or spinach for color and nutrients. Adjust spice levels by using more or less buffalo sauce, or blend in ranch dressing for a creamier, milder flavor. This dish adapts easily to your pantry and preferences.

Storing and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk and stir to bring back the creamy texture. You can microwave single servings or reheat gently on the stovetop. It also works well for meal prep, since you can assemble ahead and bake later.

FAQs About Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

Explore Similar Recipes

If you enjoy this dish, try our cozy and creamy Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings, or make a batch of slow-cooked Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes. For more cheesy comfort, don’t miss our Crockpot Chicken Enchiladas Casserole for weeknight dinners. You’ll also love our comforting Slow Cooker Chicken Stew with hearty vegetables.

Conclusion

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is creamy, spicy, and irresistibly comforting. With tender pasta, tangy buffalo sauce, and crispy topping, it’s a dish that pleases everyone. Perfect for family dinners, game nights, or anytime you crave cozy comfort food, this recipe is a keeper. Try it once and you’ll be coming back to it often. For more comfort-food inspiration, check out our recipe boards on Pinterest.

Print