Creamy Buffalo Chicken Mac & Cheese

Description

Creamy Buffalo Chicken Mac & Cheese is the ultimate comfort food mashup—tender chicken, buttery pasta, melty cheddar cheese, and bold spicy buffalo sauce all combined into one irresistibly creamy dish. Rich, cheesy, and packed with flavor, this crowd-pleasing meal is perfect for game day, family dinners, or whenever you’re craving something indulgent and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 12 oz elbow macaroni or shell pasta
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup buffalo sauce (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: green onions, blue cheese crumbles, parsley

Instructions

1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to create a roux.
4. Slowly pour in milk and heavy cream while whisking continuously until smooth.
5. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and creamy.
6. Add buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
7. Fold in shredded chicken and cooked pasta. Stir until evenly coated.
8. Optional: Transfer to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and broil for 2–3 minutes until bubbly.
9. Garnish with green onions or blue cheese if desired and serve hot.

Notes

• Rotisserie chicken works great for quick prep.
• Adjust buffalo sauce amount depending on spice preference.
• Freshly shredded cheese melts smoother than pre-shredded cheese.

Tips

• Add crispy bacon for extra flavor.
• Use pepper jack cheese for more heat.
• Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing drizzle.

Servings

6 servings

Nutritional Info (Approx. Per Serving)

• Calories: 620
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fat: 38g
• Fiber: 2g

Benefits

• High-protein comfort meal
• Rich creamy texture with bold flavor
• Great for parties or game nights
• Easy customizable spice level
• Family-friendly cheesy dinner

Q&A

Can I make it less spicy?

Yes, reduce the buffalo sauce or mix with ranch dressing.

Can I use another pasta shape?

Absolutely—shells, rotini, or penne work well.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate before reheating.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, freeze for up to 2 months.

What sides pair well?

Celery sticks, salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.