Description
Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is a mouthwatering twist on the classic comfort food, blending creamy macaroni and cheese with spicy buffalo chicken. This flavorful dish features al dente elbow macaroni enveloped in a rich cheese sauce, topped with tender shredded chicken and a crunchy panko breadcrumb topping. Perfect for game day gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2–3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chicken in olive oil until golden brown (6-7 minutes per side). Let cool slightly, then shred.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to low and combine cream cheese, milk, buffalo sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
- Mix cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and half of the cheddar into the sauce until well-coated.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish, top with remaining cheddar and panko.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Serve hot.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg