Ultimate Buffalo-Chicken Macaroni and Cheese Delight

Buffalo-Chicken Macaroni and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with a spicy kick. Imagine twirling a fork through luscious macaroni enveloped in a velvety cheese sauce, punctuated by the bold flavors of tangy buffalo sauce and tender chicken. cozy lasagna soup It’s like a party in your mouth, and everyone’s invited! For more inspiration, check out this Green Chile Macaroni Delight recipe.

This dish holds a special place in my heart, as it has saved me from many dinner-time dilemmas. Whether it was a cozy family gathering or an impromptu game night with friends, Buffalo-Chicken Macaroni and Cheese has been my go-to dish that never fails to impress. ground turkey and peppers dish You’ll want to make this again and again, especially when you crave something hearty and utterly delightful.

I once made this dish for my friends during an intense game night, and let’s just say, the bowl emptied faster than I could serve seconds!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Elbow Macaroni: Classic choice for its ability to hold the creamy sauce well; use whole wheat for extra nutrition.
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts; adjust based on your crowd size.
• Buffalo Sauce: Choose your favorite brand; I love the extra heat of Frank’s RedHot for authentic flavor.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar for that bold flavor; freshly grated melts better than pre-shredded.
• Cream Cheese: Adds creaminess and richness; make sure it’s softened for easy blending into the sauce. one-pot smoked sausage meal.
• Milk: Use whole milk for creaminess; you can substitute with half-and-half if you’re feeling indulgent!
• Garlic Powder: A must-have that enhances all the flavors beautifully; fresh garlic can be used too if preferred.
• Pepper Jack Cheese: For an extra kick! It adds creaminess while bringing some spice to the mix.
• Green Onions: These are optional but add fresh crunch and vibrant color when sprinkled on top before serving.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add diced chicken breasts. Season with salt and pepper before cooking until golden brown and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.

Create the Sauce: Reduce heat to low and add cream cheese to the skillet with the chicken. Stir until melted, then mix in buffalo sauce, garlic powder, milk, sharp cheddar cheese, and pepper jack cheese until smooth.

Combine Everything Together: Fold cooked macaroni into the sauce mixture gently until evenly coated. Make sure every nook is filled with cheesy goodness!

Bake It Up!: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish. Bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Add Toppings (optional): Before serving, sprinkle chopped green onions on top for added freshness. You can also drizzle more buffalo sauce if you’re feeling adventurous!

Feel free to customize this Buffalo-Chicken Macaroni and Cheese recipe according to your tastes—it’s as versatile as it is delicious! Whether you enjoy it spicy or mild, every bite promises comfort wrapped in cheesy delight! crispy sweet potato wedges.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the pasta al dente while simultaneously preparing the buffalo chicken mixture for seamless timing.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap the chicken for shredded rotisserie chicken or add veggies like spinach for an extra crunch.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat in the microwave until warmed through.

Sharing this dish with friends at a potluck, I was delighted by their reactions—genuine smiles and requests for seconds made my day unforgettable.

FAQ

Can I make Buffalo-Chicken Macaroni and Cheese ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare it a day in advance and bake before serving.

What type of cheese works best in this recipe?

Creamy cheddar or Monterey Jack creates a rich flavor and smooth texture.

Is there a vegetarian option for Buffalo-Chicken Macaroni and Cheese?

Yes, try using cauliflower or chickpeas as a substitute for chicken in this dish.

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Buffalo-Chicken Macaroni and Cheese

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• Author: mydishtoday
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the creamy, spicy delight of Buffalo-Chicken Macaroni and Cheese. This crowd-pleaser combines tender chicken, zesty buffalo sauce, and a rich blend of cheeses for a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting friends for game night or enjoying a family dinner, this recipe delivers comforting flavors with an exciting twist.

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Ingredients

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• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 3 cups boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 1 cup buffalo sauce (e.g., Frank's RedHot)
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 cup pepper jack cheese, grated
• 2 green onions, chopped (optional)

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Instructions

1. Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper until golden brown (7-10 minutes).
3. Reduce heat to low; add cream cheese to the skillet with chicken until melted. Stir in buffalo sauce, garlic powder, milk, sharp cheddar cheese, and pepper jack cheese until smooth.
4. Gently fold cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce mixture until well-coated.
5. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
6. Optional: Top with chopped green onions before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 490
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 870mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 44g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 38g
• Cholesterol: 105mg