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–+ servings
Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese That Will Blow Your Mind

This Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe is a creamy, comforting dish that combines tender chicken with rich cheeses for a perfect crowd-pleaser.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Base
  • 8 ounces Elbow Macaroni Gluten-free pasta can be swapped for an alternative
For the Protein
  • 2 cups Cooked Shredded Chicken Consider using a rotisserie chicken for convenience
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup Buffalo Sauce Adjust the spiciness to your preference
  • 8 ounces Cream Cheese Neufchâtel serves as a light substitute
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Monterey Jack can replace it for a milder taste
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Provolone can be an alternative
  • 2 cups Milk Plant-based milk is a great dairy-free option
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust seasoning according to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon Pepper Adjust seasoning according to taste
For the Topping
  • 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs Regular breadcrumbs work in a pinch
Optional Garnishes
  • 1/4 cup Green Onions Sprinkles offer color and zing
  • 1/4 cup Blue Cheese Provides a classic infusion of flavor

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • large skillet
  • Medium saucepan
  • Baking Dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil, then diced chicken. Season with salt and pepper; sauté for 5–7 minutes until golden brown.
  3. Make Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt butter. Whisk in flour for 2–3 minutes. Gradually whisk in milk, then add cream cheese, cheddar, and buffalo sauce until smooth.
  4. Combine: Pour cheese sauce over cooked pasta in a large bowl. Add sautéed chicken and fold together until evenly coated.
  5. Add Toppings: Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a baking dish and transfer the mac and cheese. Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs on top.
  6. Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes until the top is bubbling and golden.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Allow to cool for about 5 minutes before serving for enhanced flavor blending.

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