Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

Mac and cheese is a beloved comfort food, but when you add spicy buffalo chicken to the mix, you take it to an entirely new level. The rich, creamy texture of the cheese combined with the tangy heat of buffalo sauce creates a perfect balance of flavors. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a potluck, or a football game, this Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is sure to be a hit.

This recipe blends the best of two classic comfort foods—mac and cheese and buffalo wings—into one irresistible dish. You’ll get creamy cheese sauce, tender chicken, and a kick of heat, all wrapped up in a pasta dish that’s both satisfying and delicious. Ready to make this flavorful, spicy, cheesy masterpiece? Let’s dive in!

Buffalo chicken mac and cheese is a fusion of two favorites—spicy buffalo wings and rich, creamy mac and cheese. The creamy cheese sauce softens the heat of the buffalo sauce, and the tender, juicy chicken adds heartiness to the dish. The result is a comforting, flavorful, and satisfying meal with a kick of spice.

The dish is versatile and can be adjusted to suit a wide range of tastes. You can make it milder for kids or crank up the heat for those who love spice. The recipe also works well for meal prep and leftovers, making it a great option for busy weeks or gatherings.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s walk through the process of creating this mouthwatering dish step by step. We’ll go through how to prepare the chicken, make the cheese sauce, and bring it all together into a cheesy, spicy, and comforting meal.

Step 1: Prepare the Buffalo Chicken

1. Season the chicken: Season the chicken breasts or thighs with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper on both sides.
2. Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil and butter (optional) in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the pan is hot, add the chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
3. Shred the chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes. Shred the chicken using two forks or chop it into bite-sized pieces.
4. Toss the chicken in buffalo sauce: In a separate bowl, toss the shredded chicken with the buffalo sauce until it’s fully coated. Set it aside for later.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil the pasta: While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni (or your preferred pasta) and cook according to the package instructions, typically around 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking.
2. Drain the pasta: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. Prepare the roux: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This will help eliminate the raw taste of the flour.
2. Add the milk and cream: Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream (if using), whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook and stir for 4-5 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.
3. Add the seasonings: Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the cheese: Lower the heat to medium-low and gradually add the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese to the sauce, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Taste and adjust: Taste the cheese sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or buffalo sauce if you want to add more heat.

Step 4: Assemble the Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

1. Combine pasta, chicken, and cheese sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, buffalo chicken, and cheese sauce. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
2. Bake (optional): If you like a crispy top, transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with extra shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, then bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Top with blue cheese: Once the mac and cheese is baked (if you choose to bake it), sprinkle with blue cheese crumbles and chopped green onions.
2. Drizzle with extra buffalo sauce: For added flavor and heat, drizzle some extra buffalo sauce on top of the mac and cheese.
3. Serve: Serve the dish hot with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.

Tips and Tricks

• Ingredient substitutions:
  • If you prefer a spicier buffalo sauce, use a hotter brand or add extra hot sauce to the dish.
  • You can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time. Just shred it and toss it with the buffalo sauce.
  • For a lighter version, use whole wheat pasta and low-fat cheese or skip the cream and use just milk.
  • You can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the roux.
• Adjusting spice levels:
  • If you like a milder flavor, use less buffalo sauce or opt for a mild buffalo sauce.
  • If you want extra heat, add a few dashes of hot sauce or use a spicier buffalo sauce.
  • Adding a dollop of sour cream or yogurt on top when serving can help cool down the heat while still preserving the flavor.
• Make-ahead options:
  • This dish is great for meal prep! You can cook the chicken and pasta ahead of time, then assemble and bake the mac and cheese when you’re ready to eat.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or bake in the oven until heated through.

Pairing Suggestions

Buffalo chicken mac and cheese is a rich and flavorful dish, so pairing it with the right sides and drinks can enhance the experience.

Drinks to pair with buffalo chicken mac and cheese:

• Beer: A crisp lager or pilsner can help balance the spice and creaminess of the dish. For something more robust, try an amber ale or IPA, which can stand up to the bold flavors.
• Wine: A white wine like a Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc works well with the heat and richness of the dish. If you prefer red, a light Pinot Noir will complement the flavors without overpowering them.

Side dishes:

• Celery sticks and carrot sticks: Classic sides for buffalo wings, these vegetables add a refreshing crunch that pairs well with the creamy mac and cheese.
• Simple green salad: A salad with a tangy vinaigrette can help cut through the richness of the dish.
• Garlic bread: Serve with crusty garlic bread to soak up any extra cheese sauce.

Advanced Tips for Perfecting Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

While the recipe above provides a straightforward approach to creating a satisfying Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese, there are several advanced techniques and tips to elevate the dish and make it truly exceptional. Below are a few expert suggestions to perfect the flavors, textures, and presentation:

Perfecting the Cheese Sauce

The cheese sauce is the heart of any mac and cheese recipe, and when combined with the buffalo chicken, it becomes even more important. Here are some tips for making your cheese sauce smooth, creamy, and flavorful:

1. Use freshly shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese is convenient but contains anti-caking agents that can affect the smoothness of the cheese sauce. For a silky texture, always shred the cheese yourself. Sharp cheddar provides a bold flavor that pairs well with buffalo sauce, while mozzarella adds the gooey, melt-in-your-mouth quality that’s typical in mac and cheese.
2. Slowly add the milk and cream: When making the cheese sauce, it’s important to add the milk and cream slowly, especially after incorporating the roux (flour and butter mixture). Doing so ensures that the sauce doesn’t seize up or become lumpy. Whisk continuously to keep the mixture smooth.
3. Don’t overheat the cheese: Cheese can curdle if heated too quickly or at too high of a temperature. When melting the cheese into the sauce, keep the heat low to avoid separating the fats from the cheese, which can cause the sauce to become grainy.
4. Balance flavors: Adding a little bit of Dijon mustard powder to your cheese sauce enhances the tanginess and rounds out the flavors. The acidity from the mustard helps cut through the richness of the cheese and buffalo sauce.
5. Use heavy cream for extra richness: While whole milk is essential for a creamy texture, adding a bit of heavy cream will create an even more indulgent cheese sauce. The richness complements the spice from the buffalo sauce, giving you a luscious, velvety mouthfeel.

Flavoring the Chicken: Experimenting with Different Spices

The chicken plays an integral role in the flavor profile of this dish, so it’s important to season it well. While the traditional buffalo sauce is key, experimenting with different spices can add complexity and depth:

1. Smoked paprika: If you enjoy smoky flavors, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the chicken seasoning mix. The smoky element pairs beautifully with the heat of the buffalo sauce and the creamy cheese.
2. Cayenne pepper or chili powder: For an extra kick, sprinkle a small amount of cayenne pepper or chili powder onto the chicken before cooking. This will enhance the heat and create a more complex layer of spice.
3. Add fresh herbs: After shredding the chicken and tossing it with buffalo sauce, you can experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. Fresh herbs add brightness and a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
4. Buffalo sauce variety: While classic buffalo sauce is delicious, you can explore other types of hot sauces, such as sriracha or a smoky chipotle sauce, for a unique twist on the traditional buffalo flavor.

Texture and Crunch – Toppings to Add

Texture contrast plays a huge role in making a dish more dynamic and enjoyable. Topping your Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese with different elements can give each bite a unique experience. Here are some ways to add that crunch or extra texture:

1. Breadcrumb topping: For a crispy top, mix breadcrumbs with a little melted butter and a pinch of paprika or garlic powder. Sprinkle it evenly over the top of the mac and cheese before baking. The breadcrumbs will toast to a golden brown, creating a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the creamy pasta and cheese.
2. Crispy bacon: Adding crispy bacon pieces as a topping not only adds a delightful crunch but also a salty, smoky element that enhances the flavor of the dish. For added flair, you can even crumble the bacon and sprinkle it over the mac and cheese after baking.
3. Fried onions: If you love a bit of crunch, consider topping your buffalo chicken mac and cheese with crispy fried onions. These give the dish a fun texture and a savory, umami-packed bite.
4. Green onions and fresh herbs: Chopped green onions or parsley can brighten up the richness of the mac and cheese, adding a fresh contrast. These garnishes will not only look appealing but also bring a mild onion flavor that complements the buffalo sauce.
5. More blue cheese crumbles: If you’re a fan of blue cheese, extra crumbles of blue cheese on top of the mac and cheese will intensify the flavor. You can even drizzle some creamy blue cheese dressing over the top for an extra indulgent touch.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

Making a dish like Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is a celebration of flavor, and the way you present it can elevate the meal even further. Here are some ideas to make this dish look as great as it tastes:

1. Individual servings: Instead of serving the dish family-style, bake the mac and cheese in individual ramekins or small baking dishes. This gives the dish a more refined look, and each person can enjoy their own portion with a crispy top and extra buffalo sauce drizzle.
2. Garnish creatively: After assembling the mac and cheese, drizzle extra buffalo sauce on top, followed by crumbled blue cheese, green onions, and a sprinkle of paprika. Not only does this add flavor, but it also creates a visually appealing dish.
3. Serve in cast-iron skillets: For a rustic touch, serve the mac and cheese in small cast-iron skillets. These skillets will keep the mac and cheese warm, and the slightly crispy edges they create while baking add texture and flavor.
4. Buffalo sauce drizzle: Don’t just leave the buffalo sauce as an afterthought—use it as a drizzling sauce. Once the mac and cheese is plated, drizzle a bit of extra buffalo sauce on top or on the side for dipping. The added sauce will enhance the spicy kick and bring some visual contrast to the dish.
5. Pair with a salad: Serving a side salad with fresh greens and a tangy vinaigrette will balance out the richness of the mac and cheese. The acidity from the dressing helps cut through the creamy sauce, making every bite of mac and cheese feel lighter.

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese Variations

Once you master the base recipe for Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese, it’s easy to customize it based on your preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few variations you can try:

1. Vegan Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

If you’re following a plant-based diet or just prefer to enjoy a dairy-free meal, you can easily adapt the recipe:

• Buffalo Chicken Substitution: Use vegan chicken (store-bought or made with seitan, soy, or jackfruit) and toss it in a dairy-free buffalo sauce. You can find a wide variety of vegan-friendly hot sauces or make your own with plant-based butter.
• Cheese Sauce Substitution: Use plant-based cheese (like Daiya or Violife) or make a cashew-based cheese sauce using soaked cashews, nutritional yeast, garlic, and lemon juice to mimic the creamy texture and flavor of a traditional cheese sauce.
• Cream and Milk Substitution: Swap out the heavy cream and milk for coconut milk or any other plant-based milk, such as almond or oat milk.

2. Spicy BBQ Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

For a smoky, tangy twist on the original, try adding barbecue sauce to the mix:

• BBQ Buffalo Sauce: Mix buffalo sauce with your favorite barbecue sauce (especially a smoky variety) and toss the chicken in this combination before adding it to the mac and cheese. This variation gives you a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the spiciness of buffalo sauce.

3. Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese Casserole with Bacon

For extra richness and flavor, add crispy bacon to the mix:

• Add bacon: Crumble bacon and stir it into the mac and cheese, then top the casserole with even more bacon pieces before baking. This addition adds saltiness, crunch, and smokiness to the dish, balancing the richness of the cheese sauce.

Conclusion

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is a perfect dish for those who crave the bold flavors of buffalo wings paired with the creamy, comforting goodness of mac and cheese. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a party, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. By combining tender chicken, spicy buffalo sauce, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce, you create a dish that’s both indulgent and flavorful. Enjoy experimenting with different variations, spice levels, and toppings, and most importantly, savor the deliciousness of this irresistible comfort food fusion!

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is the perfect fusion of spicy, creamy, and comforting flavors. By combining tender buffalo chicken with a rich cheese sauce and pasta, you create a meal that’s sure to satisfy any craving. Whether you make it for a family dinner, a gathering with friends, or as a meal prep option, this dish will undoubtedly be a crowd-pleaser.

From experimenting with flavors and toppings to perfecting the cheese sauce, there are countless ways to make this dish your own. The options are endless, and you can adjust the spice levels, texture, and creaminess to suit your preferences.

Enjoy the process of making it, and don’t forget to share this comforting, indulgent dish with those you love. Happy cooking!

Yield: 4-6

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

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Mac and cheese is a beloved comfort food, but when you add spicy buffalo chicken to the mix, you take it to an entirely new level. The rich, creamy texture of the cheese combined with the tangy heat of buffalo sauce creates a perfect balance of flavors. Whether you're making it for a weeknight dinner, a potluck, or a football game, this Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is sure to be a hit.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
• 8 oz elbow macaroni (or any pasta shape of your choice)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for a richer dish)
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles (optional)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (for topping)
• 2 tbsp melted butter (for breadcrumbs)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Make the cheese sauce: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until the mixture thickens slightly.
4. Add milk and seasonings: Gradually whisk in the milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes.
5. Stir in the cheese: Lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, mixing until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. Combine with buffalo sauce and chicken: Add the shredded chicken and buffalo sauce to the cheese sauce, stirring to combine. Taste and adjust the amount of buffalo sauce if more heat is desired.
7. Assemble the dish: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce mixture and stir to coat the pasta evenly. If using, stir in blue cheese crumbles.
8. Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the mac and cheese.
9. Bake the mac and cheese: Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish (9x13-inch works well). Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
10. Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Optional: drizzle with extra buffalo sauce or top with additional blue cheese crumbles before serving.

Notes

• Make-Ahead: You can prepare the dish up to the baking stage, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This is great for meal prep or prepping for a dinner party.
• Freezing: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
• Spice Level: Adjust the heat level by using more or less buffalo sauce or by adding extra chili flakes or hot sauce to suit your taste. For a milder version, use a mild buffalo sauce or reduce the amount of buffalo sauce used.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for sautéed vegetables, like mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions, and toss them in buffalo sauce. You can also add chickpeas or tofu for added protein.
• Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Adding a sharp cheddar for flavor and a mild mozzarella for meltiness works best, but you can substitute other cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a different twist.
• Pasta Variations: While elbow macaroni is the classic choice, you can use other pasta shapes like penne, shells, or rotini. Choose a pasta that will hold onto the cheese sauce well.
• Adding Crunch: If you like extra texture, top the mac and cheese with breadcrumbs, crispy bacon, or fried onions before baking for an additional layer of crunch.