Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

Why Make This Recipe

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is a fun twist on a classic meal. It combines the creaminess of mac and cheese with the spicy kick of buffalo chicken. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or a gathering with friends. It’s easy to make and satisfies both cheese lovers and those who like a bit of heat.

How To Make Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

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)

Directions:

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water and cook rotini until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

   
   

2. Prepare the Chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté diced chicken seasoned with salt and pepper until golden brown (about 5-7 minutes).

   
   

3. Create Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour to create a roux, then whisk in milk until smooth. Stir in cream cheese until melted. Add shredded cheddar cheese and buffalo sauce; mix until creamy.

   
   

4. Combine Everything: Mix cooked pasta with cheese sauce and chicken until well coated.

   
   

5. Add Toppings: Transfer to a greased baking dish and top with panko breadcrumbs.

   
   

6. Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.

   
   

Prep Time And Nutrition Facts

This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, making a total of 30 minutes. It serves 4 people, and each serving has about 350 calories, 20g of protein, and 15g of fat. It’s a hearty meal that fills you up!

How To Serve Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

Serve Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese hot, right out of the oven. You can add sliced green onions on top for extra flavor. It pairs well with a side salad or some crispy veggies for a balanced meal.

How To Store Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or in the oven at a low temperature until warm.

Tips To Make Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

• For extra creaminess, add more cream cheese or cheddar cheese.
• If you like more spice, add extra buffalo sauce to taste.
• Use rotini or any pasta shape you prefer, like elbow macaroni.

Health And Benefits Of This Recipe

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese offers good nutrition. The chicken adds protein, which helps build and repair muscles. The cheese provides calcium for strong bones. Though it’s creamy and cheesy, you can control the amount of buffalo sauce and cheese you use. This helps keep it balanced and not too heavy. Plus, you get to enjoy a tasty meal!

Variation

Add vegetables like spinach or broccoli to boost the nutrition. You can also try using different types of cheese, like mozzarella or pepper jack, for a different flavor.

FAQs

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Yes, leftover chicken works great for this dish. Just dice it and mix it into the pasta.

Is this recipe spicy?
Yes, it has a kick from the buffalo sauce. You can adjust the amount if you prefer it milder.

Can I freeze Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese?
Yes, you can freeze it before or after baking. Just make sure it’s in a freezer-safe container and it will last for about 2-3 months. Reheat it well before serving!