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Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender shredded chicken, creamy cheese sauce, and a spicy buffalo kick. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or game day gatherings. Featuring cavatappi pasta, cheddar cheese, and a rich buffalo sauce, it’s the perfect blend of comfort food with a twist. Ideal for those who love creamy pasta dishes with a little heat, this recipe can be customized to suit various preferences. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal or a spicy mac and cheese, this dish is sure to impress.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

1 boneless, skinless chicken breast (see notes)
1/3 cup blue cheese dressing

For the Pasta:

8 oz. cavatappi pasta (or macaroni)

For the Sauce:

2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 cup milk
1/4 cup buffalo sauce
1/2 teaspoon hot sauce
1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon each: salt and pepper
1 1/4 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
2 ounces cream cheese, softened

Instructions

Step 1: Cook and Shred the Chicken

Place the chicken breast in a pot of water and bring it to a gentle boil. Let it cook for 15-20 minutes, or until fully cooked. (A gentle boil keeps the chicken tender.)
Remove the chicken and shred it using two forks. Toss the shredded chicken with blue cheese dressing and set aside.
Pro Tip: Add 1-2 chicken bouillon cubes to the boiling water for enhanced flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain well and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

Melt the butter in a medium pot over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring continuously.
Add the tomato paste and mix until fully combined, forming a thick paste.
Gradually add the heavy cream and milk in small splashes, whisking continuously to maintain a smooth and thick consistency.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Stir in the buffalo sauce, hot sauce, mustard powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Gradually sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese and add the cream cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Stir the shredded chicken into the cheese sauce. Add the drained pasta and use a silicone spatula to gently mix until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
Serve immediately, garnished with additional blue cheese or chopped parsley if desired.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavor-Packed: Combines the bold heat of buffalo sauce with the creamy richness of cheddar and cream cheese.
Comfort Food Classic: A fun twist on traditional mac and cheese, perfect for cozy meals or gatherings.
Customizable: Easy to adjust spice levels and add toppings for personalized flavors.

Tips

Shredding Chicken: Use a stand mixer with the paddle attachment for quick shredding.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure dairy ingredients are at room temperature to prevent curdling.
Cheese: Use freshly shredded cheese for a smoother sauce.

Variations and Substitutions

Protein Alternatives: Substitute chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken, turkey, or even crispy tofu for a vegetarian option.
Spice Level: Adjust the buffalo sauce and hot sauce quantities to suit your heat tolerance.
Pasta Options: Swap cavatappi for penne, rigatoni, or shells.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the sauce and chicken in advance. Reheat gently on the stove and toss with freshly cooked pasta.

What can I substitute for blue cheese dressing?
Ranch dressing works as an excellent alternative.

Can I bake this dish?
Yes, transfer the prepared mac and cheese to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake at 375°F for 15 minutes.

Serving

Pair with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a balanced meal.
Serve with celery sticks and additional blue cheese or ranch dressing on the side for a buffalo-inspired touch.

Suggestions

Add a crunchy topping by sprinkling breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top before serving.
Incorporate cooked, crumbled bacon or diced jalapeños for added texture and flavor.