Buffalo Chicken Mac And Cheese Recipe

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is the ultimate combination of rich, cheesy goodness with a spicy kick. It's the perfect comfort food for any occasion, blending creamy mac and cheese with the bold flavors of buffalo chicken. Whether you’re planning a family dinner, a game-day snack, or just a meal to satisfy your comfort food cravings, this recipe will hit the spot. Read on for the full breakdown of how to make the best Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese, including tips, substitutions, and FAQs to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

What is Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese?

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delightful fusion dish that combines two fan-favorite comfort foods: traditional mac and cheese and spicy buffalo chicken. The mac and cheese provide the creamy, cheesy base, while shredded buffalo chicken adds a spicy, tangy flavor. The result is a hearty, flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for those who love a little heat with their cheesy pasta.

Ingredients List for Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

Mac and Cheese Ingredients:

• 1 lb elbow macaroni (or your pasta of choice)
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 4 tablespoons butter
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Buffalo Chicken Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
• ½ cup buffalo sauce (adjust according to your spice tolerance)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)

Topping Ingredients:

• ½ cup blue cheese crumbles (optional, for serving)
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for a crispy topping)
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish)

Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is its flexibility. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some popular substitutions and variations you might consider:

• Cheese Variations: Swap out cheddar and mozzarella for Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or Pepper Jack for a different flavor profile.
• Protein Alternatives: Instead of chicken, you can use ground turkey, shredded pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Spice Level Adjustments: If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of buffalo sauce or mix it with a bit of ranch dressing to tone down the heat. For more spice, add extra cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute the flour with a gluten-free alternative like cornstarch or gluten-free all-purpose flour. Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs as well.
• Dairy-Free Option: Opt for plant-based cheeses and milk alternatives like almond or oat milk, and use a dairy-free butter substitute.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

This recipe is broken down into two main parts: preparing the mac and cheese and cooking the buffalo chicken. Afterward, everything comes together in a baking dish for a deliciously gooey and spicy meal.

How to Cook Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

• Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package directions (about 7-8 minutes) until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

• In a large saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
• Once melted, whisk in the flour to form a roux, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden brown.
• Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to whisk for 4-5 minutes until the mixture thickens.
• Lower the heat and stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
• Add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until they melt completely into a smooth sauce.

Step 3: Make the Buffalo Chicken

• While the cheese sauce is cooking, in a separate pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
• Add the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well to coat the chicken in the buffalo sauce, and cook for 3-5 minutes until the chicken is heated through.

Step 4: Combine the Mac and Cheese with Buffalo Chicken

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce. Stir until the pasta is fully coated with the creamy sauce.
• Fold in the buffalo chicken, ensuring that it's evenly distributed throughout the dish.

Step 5: Add the Topping and Bake

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Transfer the buffalo chicken mac and cheese to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
• In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

• Once out of the oven, let the dish cool slightly before serving. For an extra flavor boost, sprinkle the mac and cheese with blue cheese crumbles and garnish with chopped green onions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Pasta: It’s important to cook the macaroni until al dente, as the pasta will continue to cook when it’s baked. Overcooked pasta will become mushy.
• Not Thickening the Sauce Enough: If your cheese sauce is too thin, the dish may end up runny. Make sure your roux is cooked properly and that the sauce thickens before adding the cheese.
• Skipping the Topping: Don’t skip the panko breadcrumb topping! It adds a delicious crunch that complements the creamy texture of the mac and cheese.
• Not Adjusting the Spice Level: Taste the buffalo chicken mixture before adding it to the mac and cheese. Adjust the heat level by adding more buffalo sauce or diluting it with a little ranch dressing, depending on your preference.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is a hearty dish, but the way you serve and present it can make it even more appealing. Here are some tips:

How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

• Family-Style: Serve it straight from the baking dish for a casual, family-style meal. Pair it with a side salad or some roasted vegetables for balance.
• Individual Portions: For a more refined presentation, scoop the mac and cheese into individual ramekins before baking. This way, everyone gets their own perfectly crispy portion.

Presentation Ideas for Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

• Garnish with Green Onions: A sprinkle of fresh green onions adds a pop of color and a bit of brightness to the dish.
• Blue Cheese Crumbles: If you love the classic buffalo chicken combination, adding blue cheese crumbles on top before serving will enhance the flavor.
• Serve with Extra Buffalo Sauce: For those who like it extra spicy, serve with a side of extra buffalo sauce or hot sauce drizzled over the top.

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe Tips

• Use Pre-Cooked Chicken: Save time by using leftover chicken or a store-bought rotisserie chicken. Simply shred the meat and mix it with the buffalo sauce.
• Customize the Cheese: Feel free to mix and match cheeses to suit your preferences. A blend of sharp and mild cheeses works best to create a well-rounded flavor.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the dish ahead of time by assembling the mac and cheese with the buffalo chicken, covering it tightly, and storing it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the entire dish a day in advance and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. Just cover it tightly with foil and store it in the fridge. When you're ready to cook, bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time since it will be cold.

What should I serve with Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese?

A side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables are great sides to balance out the richness of the mac and cheese. If you want to stick with the buffalo theme, serve with celery sticks and a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing.

Can I freeze Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese?

Yes! You can freeze the mac and cheese before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. To bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. If freezing leftovers, let them cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.

How can I make it less spicy?

To reduce the heat, use less buffalo sauce or mix the buffalo sauce with ranch or blue cheese dressing to tone down the spice. You can also skip the cayenne pepper if you want a milder dish.

Conclusion

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is the perfect blend of comfort food and bold, spicy flavor. This easy-to-follow recipe ensures a creamy, cheesy mac and cheese base with the added zing of buffalo chicken. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner, a party, or just a cozy night in, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Be sure to try out the suggested variations and serving ideas to make it your own! Enjoy every bite of this delicious comfort food classic!

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