Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese: A Creamy Comfort Food Delight

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

Looking for crave-worthy comfort food? This buffalo chicken mac and cheese packs a punch with melted three-cheese sauce, tender pasta, and spicy chicken—perfect for game day or any weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

• Easy weeknight dinner: Ready in under 45 minutes.
• Rich & spicy: Buffalo hot sauce meets creamy cheddar and mozzarella.
• Protein-packed: Tender shredded chicken adds lean protein.
• Customizable: Add blue cheese crumbles, ranch drizzle, or extra veggies.

Ingredients for Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

• 1 (16 ounce) package elbow macaroni
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 4 ounces cream cheese, cubed
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• ½ cup buffalo hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Optional garnishes: crumbled blue cheese, chopped green onions, ranch or blue cheese dressing

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook macaroni until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
3. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens, about 3–4 minutes.
4. Lower heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese until fully melted and creamy.
5. Add shredded chicken, buffalo hot sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, creating a spicy buffalo cheese sauce.
6. Fold cooked macaroni into the sauce. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until everything is heated through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with blue cheese crumbles and chopped green onions for extra zest.

Pro Tips & Variations

• Double the protein: Swap half the chicken for cooked bacon bits or pulled pork.
• Spice it up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and flour substitute.
• Oven-baked crunch: Top with panko breadcrumbs and bake at 350°F for 10 minutes.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

• Calories: 781 kcal
• Carbs: 52 g | Protein: 47 g | Fat: 42 g
• Saturated Fat: 23 g | Cholesterol: 157 mg | Sodium: 978 mg
• Fiber: 2 g | Sugar: 6 g

Ready to dig in? Enjoy your buffalo chicken mac and cheese straight from the stove, and savor every creamy, spicy bite!

Recipe credit: Allrecipes