If you’re looking for a dish that combines comfort food with a kick, this buffalo chicken mac and cheese is the perfect choice. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, it brings together tender pasta, spicy buffalo chicken, and a rich cheese sauce. Perfect for a family dinner or game day, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will become a favorite in your home!
Ingredients
– 8 oz elbow macaroni
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 cup buffalo sauce
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup cream cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately:
– Calories: 500
– Protein: 30g
– Carbohydrates: 40g
– Fat: 25g
This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, mix shredded chicken with buffalo sauce.
4. In a saucepan, combine cream cheese and milk over medium heat until melted.
5. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, and half of the cheddar cheese until smooth.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and buffalo chicken in a baking dish.
7. Pour cheese sauce over the macaroni and chicken mixture, stirring to combine.
8. Top with remaining cheddar cheese.
9. Bake in the oven for 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
10. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta or use a different protein, such as shredded turkey or tofu, for a vegetarian option. Additionally, different cheese varieties, like pepper jack, can add extra flavor.
Serving and Pairings
This buffalo chicken mac and cheese pairs well with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. It also makes a great dish for potlucks and gatherings.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave or oven until warmed through. This dish can be frozen, but the texture may change slightly upon reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta can lead to mushy mac and cheese.
- Not stirring the cheese sauce enough can cause it to clump.
- Using low-fat cheese may result in a less creamy texture.
- Not seasoning the chicken can make the dish bland.
- Skipping the baking step can lead to a lack of crispy topping.
Helpful Tips
- Use rotisserie chicken for quicker preparation.
- Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of buffalo sauce.
- Add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- For a smoky flavor, consider adding smoked paprika.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the buffalo chicken mac and cheese in advance. Assemble it in the baking dish, cover it, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
What can I use instead of buffalo sauce?
If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use barbecue sauce or a homemade hot sauce blend to suit your taste.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with a mix of sautéed vegetables or chickpeas, and use plant-based cheese for a vegetarian option.
How do I make it spicier?
You can increase the amount of buffalo sauce or add diced jalapeños to the mixture for an extra kick.
Can I freeze buffalo chicken mac and cheese?
Yes, you can freeze it. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container and consume it within three months for the best quality.
Conclusion
Buffalo chicken mac and cheese is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. With its creamy texture and spicy kick, it’s perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try, and watch it become a favorite in your household!
Buffalo Chicken Mac And Cheese
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix shredded chicken with buffalo sauce.
- In a saucepan, combine cream cheese and milk over medium heat until melted.
- Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, and half of the cheddar cheese until smooth.
- Combine cooked macaroni and buffalo chicken in a baking dish.
- Pour cheese sauce over the macaroni and chicken mixture, stirring to combine.
- Top with remaining cheddar cheese.
- Bake in the oven for 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
