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Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

A creamy, flavorful dish combining mac and cheese with buffalo chicken for a deliciously comforting meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 600 kcal

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Chicken

  • 12 oz rotini pasta
  • 2 cups cooked, diced boneless skinless chicken breast

Sauce

  • ½ cup buffalo sauce
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 4 oz cream cheese
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk

Topping

  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs for topping
  • 2 pieces green onions, sliced for garnish

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Gather all the ingredients and ensure your workspace is clean and organized.
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Cooking

  • In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, around 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  • In a skillet over medium heat, add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
  • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, add flour to create a roux, whisking for 1-2 minutes until golden.
  • Gradually whisk in the milk, cooking and whisking until thickened, about 3-5 minutes.
  • Lower the heat, add cream cheese, whisk until melted and combined.
  • Stir in sharp cheddar cheese and buffalo sauce until fully melted and creamy.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pasta, cheese sauce, and sautéed chicken, stirring until coated.
  • Transfer to a greased baking dish, top with panko breadcrumbs, and drizzle melted butter over top if desired.

Baking

  • Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.
  • Let cool for a few minutes, then sprinkle with sliced green onions before serving.

Notes

For best results, use fresh cheese from a block and allow sauce to thicken on medium heat. You can customize with additional toppings or adjust spice levels.
Keyword Buffalo Chicken, Comfort Food, easy dinner, Mac and Cheese, one-pot meal