Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is a mouthwatering fusion of creamy, cheesy goodness and the bold, spicy flavors of buffalo chicken. This dish brings together tender elbow macaroni smothered in a rich cheese sauce, infused with zesty buffalo sauce, and topped with crispy breadcrumbs for an irresistible crunch. Perfect for game day or a cozy family dinner, this easy-to-make recipe requires just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, ensuring it’s accessible for cooks of all skill levels. Serve this comforting dish hot from the oven for a delightful meal that’s sure to impress everyone at the table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 2 cups cooked, shredded boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth, then gradually add milk while whisking until thickened.
- Reduce heat to low; stir in cheddar cheese until melted, then mix in buffalo sauce until combined.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni, shredded chicken, and cheese sauce; stir until well coated.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish; top with additional cheese if desired and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly.
- Let cool slightly before serving; drizzle with more buffalo sauce if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: For a healthier option, use whole grain pasta or add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. Customize spice levels by adjusting the amount of buffalo sauce or adding toppings like blue cheese or crispy bacon.