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Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.8 from 110 reviews
  • Author: Lisa
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is a deliciously creamy and spicy twist on the classic comfort food. Featuring tender shredded chicken combined with tangy buffalo sauce and a blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, this dish balances rich, cheesy goodness with a mild to hot kick of flavor. Perfect for a cozy dinner or game day, it’s easy to prepare on the stovetop and can be customized to your preferred spice level.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 12 ounces macaroni pasta

Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups whole milk, plus more as needed
  • ½ cup buffalo sauce (mild, medium, or hot)

Cheese & Chicken

  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, freshly shredded
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the macaroni pasta and cook until al dente, about 2 minutes less than package instructions. Drain the pasta and rinse with cool water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
  2. Make the Roux: In the same or a new pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour until fully incorporated, creating a smooth paste. Continue whisking until the mixture turns golden, which should take about a minute.
  3. Add Seasonings: Whisk in paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook the mixture until fragrant, roughly 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
  4. Create the Sauce: Slowly add the whole milk and buffalo sauce while whisking continuously. Keep whisking until the sauce warms and thickens, which will take approximately 5 minutes. The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
  5. Add Cheese: Remove the pot from heat. Gradually stir in the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted completely and the sauce is smooth.
  6. Combine and Serve: Stir in the cooked chicken and pasta, mixing until all ingredients are well coated with the cheesy buffalo sauce. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add more warm milk as needed. Serve garnished with blue cheese crumbles and sliced green onions if desired.

Notes

  • The Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave in short 30-second intervals to preserve creaminess.
  • Adjust buffalo sauce quantity to control the spice level according to your preference.
  • Using freshly shredded cheese helps the sauce melt more smoothly.
  • Adding garnishes like blue cheese or green onions adds extra flavor and texture contrast.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 620
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 850mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg

Find it online: https://yumyy.com/buffalo-chicken-mac-and-cheese-recipe/