buffalo chicken mac and cheese
This Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delightful combination of creamy, cheesy pasta and spicy shredded chicken, perfect for game day or a cozy dinner. It brings together the beloved comfort food of mac and cheese with the bold flavors of buffalo chicken.
Equipment
- 1 large pot
- 1 colander
- 1 skillet
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 baking dish
- 1 wooden spoon or spatula
- 1 whisk
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni About 2 cups.
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup buffalo sauce Like Frank's RedHot.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese About 12 ounces.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper To taste.
- Green onions Optional for garnish.
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add shredded chicken and buffalo sauce, and cook until heated through, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In the same pot used for pasta, melt 2 tablespoons of butter (optional), then whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and continue to whisk until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Combine cooked macaroni and buffalo chicken with cheese sauce in a mixing bowl, stirring until well mixed.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, until bubbly and cheese is melted.
- Allow to cool slightly, garnish with green onions if using, and serve.
Notes
Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to your taste preference for spice.
For a creamier texture, add a bit more cheese or a splash of cream to the cheese sauce.
This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator before baking. Just cover it with foil and bake when ready.