Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

Name: Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz elbow macaroni; 2 cups shredded chicken; 1 cup buffalo sauce; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup cream cheese; 1 cup milk; 1 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tbsp butter, melted

Highlighted under: Home-Cooked Classics Recipes

I absolutely love combining two comfort foods into one delicious dish, and that's exactly what Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese offers! The creamy, cheesy pasta mingles perfectly with the spicy, tangy buffalo chicken, creating a dish that's sure to satisfy any craving. This recipe is ideal for game day or any gathering, and it’s so easy to make that I find myself whipping it up whenever I'm in the mood for something hearty and flavorful. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-23T21:30:28.904Z

When I first made Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese, I was blown away by how easily the flavors came together. The spicy buffalo sauce pairs so well with the rich creaminess of the cheese, creating a dish that’s both exciting and comforting. One key tip I learned is to use a mix of sharp cheddar and cream cheese for a creamy texture that complements the heat perfectly.

Additionally, don’t skimp on the toppings! A sprinkle of chopped green onions or crumbled blue cheese on top really takes this dish over the top. Every bite offers a delightful twist, and I guarantee it will become a family favorite.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Spicy buffalo flavor that packs a punch
Creamy cheese sauce that clings to every bite
Perfectly satisfying for lunch or dinner
Great for serving a crowd with minimal effort

Mastering the Cheese Sauce

The cheese sauce is the heart of any mac and cheese, and in this recipe, it takes on an even richer dimension with the addition of buffalo sauce. When you combine cream cheese with milk over medium heat, ensure you stir continuously to avoid any sticking or burning. Once the cream cheese is fully melted, the key is to add the shredded cheddar gradually. This not only allows for a smoother melting process but ensures that each ounce of cheese blends in seamlessly, creating a beautifully glossy sauce.

If you find your cheese sauce too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash more milk to loosen it up. Conversely, for a thicker sauce, let it simmer gently for an extra minute after adding the cheddar. Make sure the heat is just right—too high can cause the cheese to separate, leading to a grainy texture that’s less than appetizing.

Perfecting the Bake

Baking the Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is where the dish truly comes together. Preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) is crucial; it creates the ideal environment for the breadcrumbs to crisp up and the flavors to meld. When spreading the mac and cheese into the baking dish, make sure to level it out for even cooking. A well-distributed layer will ensure consistent heating, resulting in golden edges and a bubbly, inviting top.

The addition of breadcrumbs contributes that delightful crunch contrast to the creamy pasta beneath. Mixing them with melted butter before adding them to the top helps them toast beautifully—a task that should take about 20 minutes in the oven. Keep an eye out for a golden brown hue and bubbling edges, indicating that it’s time to take this comforting dish out of the oven.

Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese

8 oz elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded chicken
1 cup buffalo sauce
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup cream cheese
1 cup milk
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 tbsp butter, melted

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the cream cheese, milk, and garlic powder. Stir until the cream cheese has melted and the mixture is smooth. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted.

Mix in Chicken and Buffalo Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, and cheese sauce. Stir until evenly coated.

Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish. In a small bowl, mix together breadcrumbs and melted butter, then sprinkle over the top.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Serve warm and enjoy your Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding diced celery or carrots into the mix for a crunch. You can also adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to customize the spice level to your liking.

Ingredient Variations

While shredded rotisserie chicken is convenient, feel free to use leftover cooked chicken for this recipe. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can substitute the chicken with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and spinach for a delicious twist. Another great alternative is to use shredded jackfruit; its texture mimics pulled chicken and absorbs flavors well.

For cheese substitutes, a blend of mozzarella and pepper jack can provide a different texture and flavor profile. If you’d like to create a dairy-free version, consider using cashew cream or a non-dairy cheese made from nut bases for the sauce. Just remember that melting qualities can vary, so choose brands with good melting characteristics.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To prevent the mac and cheese from drying out when reheating, add a splash of milk before warming it in the microwave or oven. Cover it with foil when baking to retain moisture, then remove the foil for the last few minutes to allow the top to crisp back up.

You can also freeze portions for future meals. Just be sure to cool the mac and cheese completely, then freeze it in individual servings. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Be cautious of texture when freezing; while the flavors remain intact, the creamy sauce may separate slightly. A quick stir and a bit of added milk during reheating can help fix this.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds delicious flavor.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ What can I substitute for the cheese?

You can use a dairy-free cheese alternative or follow a vegan recipe to replace the cheese ingredients.

→ Is this recipe spicy?

Yes, the buffalo sauce gives it a kick! You can use mild buffalo sauce if you prefer less heat.