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–+ servings
Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese: Comfort Food Bliss Awaits

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is a comforting dish combining creamy pasta, tender chicken, and zesty buffalo sauce.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Elbow Macaroni can substitute with rotini or shells for variety
For the Chicken
  • 2 cups Cooked Shredded Chicken rotisserie chicken is a convenient option
For the Cheese Sauce
  • ½ cup Buffalo Sauce vary the heat according to preference
  • 4 tbsp Cream Cheese light Neufchâtel can be a lighter alternative
  • 2 cups Cheddar Cheese sharp cheddar gives an extra punch
  • ½ cup Mozzarella Cheese swapping in Fontina can lend richness
  • 2 cups Milk whole milk ensures creamier experience
For Seasoning
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder fresh minced garlic is an excellent substitute
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder sautéing shallots can elevate flavors
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • large skillet
  • medium saucepan
  • whisk
  • baking dish

Method
 

Step 1: Cook Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare Chicken
  1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add seasoned diced chicken and sauté for 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Make Cheese Sauce
  1. Melt butter in a medium saucepan. Whisk in flour to create a roux, then gradually whisk in milk until thickened. Add cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and buffalo sauce; stir until smooth.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
  1. Add drained macaroni and sautéed chicken into the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat.
Step 5: Add Toppings
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer pasta mixture to a greased baking dish, top with panko breadcrumbs.
Step 6: Bake
  1. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Allow to set for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Perfect for cozy family dinners or festive gatherings, this recipe is quick and customizable to your preference.

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