Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
Okay, flavor adventurers, buckle up because I’m about to unleash a recipe that’s going to blow your taste buds straight to flavor town! I’m talkin’ about Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese – a creamy, dreamy, spicy explosion that’s about to become your new comfort food obsession.
I remember the exact moment I knew this Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese was destined for greatness. My friend, Maria, took one bite, her eyes widened, and she literally yelled, “Quinn, what IS this magic?!” That’s when I knew I’d nailed it.
This isn’t just mac and cheese; it’s a Cuba Queen flavor bomb, packed with the perfect balance of creamy cheese sauce, tender chicken, and that signature buffalo kick. It’s bold, it’s unapologetic, and it’s guaranteed to make you the star of any potluck or dinner party. Get ready to experience the best Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese ever!
INGREDIENTS You Need for This:
This Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese ingredient list is short but mighty! We’re talking maximum flavor with minimum fuss. Check out the fresh ingredients we’ll be using:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni: The classic choice, but feel free to experiment with shells or cavatappi.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Don’t skimp on the good stuff – it makes all the difference in the cheese sauce.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: This is what helps thicken our luscious cheese sauce.
- 3 cups milk: Whole milk creates the creamiest, richest Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese.
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese: I like a sharp cheddar for that extra zing, but you can use a blend.
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese: For that gooey, melty goodness.
- 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles: This is where that buffalo flavor really starts to shine.
- 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded: You can use leftover rotisserie chicken or cook your own.
- 1 cup buffalo wing sauce: Franks RedHot is my go-to, but use your favorite!
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce: Because we’re turning up the heat!
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions: For a little freshness and pop of color.
The secret to epic Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is using good cheese. Splurge on a block of high-quality cheddar and shred it yourself – trust me, you’ll taste the difference. You’ll find the best ingredients for this Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese at your local grocery store.
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:
Okay, flavor adventurers, let’s get this Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese party started! Don’t stress – your Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is going to be incredible. For another creamy recipe, check out my Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl Recipe.
- Cook the macaroni: Cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the roux: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, until smooth. This is where most people mess up their easy Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese – but not you!
- Add the milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure to smooth out any lumps. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly.
- Melt the cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, and blue cheese crumbles until melted and smooth. Your creamy Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese should look and smell like creamy, cheesy heaven!
- Add the chicken and sauce: Stir in the cooked chicken, buffalo wing sauce, and hot sauce. For those who like it extra spicy, feel free to add a dash more hot sauce!
- Combine everything: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to coat. Pro tip for Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese perfection: Don’t overcook the pasta in the sauce – you want it to stay nice and firm!
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with chopped green onions and serve immediately. This is where your Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese transforms into pure magic. In my kitchen, this Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese takes exactly 30 minutes from start to finish.
While your Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is working its magic, grab your camera – this is Instagram gold! Want another comfort food classic? Try my Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese.
PRESENTATION:
This cheesy Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese absolutely slays at dinner parties! People absolutely lose their minds when I serve this Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese at casual get-togethers.
Serve this Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese hot and fresh, piled high in bowls or on a platter. A sprinkle of extra blue cheese crumbles and a drizzle of buffalo sauce add that final touch of flavor and visual appeal.
For the perfect pairing, serve this Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese with a crisp salad or some crunchy celery sticks to balance out the richness. If your kids love this, they’ll go crazy for this Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe!
If you have leftovers, don’t worry! This Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is just as good the next day. You can even transform it into Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese-stuffed peppers for a fun and unique appetizer. I even put them in Mac and Cheese Stuffed Onion Rings, so good!
I’ve even tested a seasonal Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese variation using pumpkin puree in the cheese sauce for a fall twist.
FAQs:
Here are some frequently asked questions – answered with Quinn’s signature confidence and flavor-loving energy!
Q: Can I make this Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese spicier?
A: Absolutely! Add more hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce. I’ve even used diced jalapenos for an extra kick.
Q: What if I don’t have blue cheese?
A: You can leave it out, but it really adds that signature buffalo flavor. If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, try using a sharp provolone or a little bit of parmesan.
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Of course! Shells, cavatappi, or even penne would work well. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: How do I know when my Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is perfectly done?
A: The cheese sauce should be smooth and creamy, and the macaroni should be tender but not mushy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of milk. If it’s too thin, cook it for a few more minutes, stirring constantly.
Q: Can I make this Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese ahead of time?
A: You can prepare it ahead of time, but it’s best served fresh. If you do make it ahead, reheat it gently over low heat, adding a little bit of milk to keep it creamy. I’ve gotten great feedback from the community that it’s great for meal prep.
Q: Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
A: I always recommend shredding your own cheese for the best flavor and melting quality. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly.
Q: What kind of chicken should I use?
A: Rotisserie chicken is a great option for convenience, but you can also cook your own chicken breasts or thighs. I prefer using chicken thighs for their richer flavor.
CONCLUSION:
This Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese represents everything Cuba Queen stands for: bold flavors, comforting textures, and unapologetic indulgence. It’s a dish that’s guaranteed to bring a smile to your face and make you feel like a culinary rock star.
My Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese Power Tips:
- Don’t overcook the macaroni! Al dente is the key to perfect texture.
- Use good-quality cheese! It makes all the difference in the flavor.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with the spice level! Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce and hot sauce to your liking.
Some Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese variations I’ve created and loved are: A version with bacon bits, a version with a breadcrumb topping, and a vegetarian version with cauliflower instead of chicken. The bacon version gets the biggest reactions!
So go ahead, flavor adventurer – make this Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese your signature dish. I have confidence in your cooking success! Make some flavor memories! Share your results and let me know how it goes! For more bold flavor adventures, check out this Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese – Sugar Spun Run. If this recipe rocks your world, you NEED to try this Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe! This Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese | Don’t Go Bacon My Heart is another great version if you want something simple.
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
This Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese combines creamy, cheesy goodness with the kick of buffalo sauce and tender chicken. It’s the perfect comfort food with a fiery twist!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce, plus more for drizzling
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions, for garnish
- Optional: Blue cheese crumbles, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain well and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth.
- Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until thickened.
- Stir in salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Stir in cooked macaroni, shredded chicken, and buffalo wing sauce.
- Pour into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
- Let stand for 5 minutes before serving. Drizzle with extra buffalo sauce and garnish with green onions and blue cheese crumbles (if using).
Notes
For an extra creamy mac and cheese, use a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. You can also add a breadcrumb topping for added crunch.