Save This buffalo chicken dip mac and cheese transforms two beloved comfort foods into one extraordinary dish that will have everyone fighting for seconds. The spicy kick from buffalo sauce perfectly balances the creamy cheese sauce, while tender chunks of chicken make it hearty enough for a main meal.
I first made this recipe for a football watch party, and it disappeared faster than any other dish on the table. Now my family requests it regularly, even when there's no game to watch.
Ingredients
- Elbow macaroni: provides the perfect shape for holding the creamy sauce in every bite
- Shredded chicken breast: adds protein and substance use rotisserie chicken for a time saver
- Unsalted butter: creates the base for your roux allowing you to control the salt level
- All purpose flour: thickens the sauce without adding flavor choose unbleached for best results
- Whole milk and heavy cream: provide richness that makes this dish truly decadent
- Buffalo wing sauce: delivers that signature tangy heat Frank's RedHot is my go to brand
- Cream cheese: adds velvety smoothness and helps prevent the sauce from breaking
- Sharp cheddar cheese: brings bold flavor look for aged varieties for more complexity
- Monterey Jack cheese: melts beautifully and provides a mild counterpoint to the sharp cheddar
- Blue cheese: optional but authentic adds that classic buffalo wing companion flavor
- Garlic and onion powders: provide depth without overpowering the dish
- Panko breadcrumbs: create that irresistible crispy topping Japanese style stays crunchier
Instructions
- Prepare Your Ingredients:
- Begin by shredding your cooked chicken into bite sized pieces rather than chopping it. The irregular texture of shredded chicken holds sauce better and creates a more authentic buffalo chicken experience. Measure and prepare all other ingredients before starting so you can focus on the sauce when needed.
- Cook The Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil before adding a generous tablespoon of salt. Cook the pasta for 1 to 2 minutes less than package directions for al dente. The pasta will continue cooking in the oven so slightly undercooking it now prevents mushiness later. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining in case your sauce needs thinning.
- Create The Roux:
- Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat until it stops foaming but before it browns. Add flour all at once and whisk continuously for at least 90 seconds. This cooking time removes the raw flour taste while creating a blonde roux that will thicken without changing the sauce color.
- Build The Cheese Sauce:
- Pour in milk and cream in a slow steady stream while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue stirring for about 5 minutes until the sauce coats the back of a spoon. Add buffalo sauce and softened cream cheese gradually incorporating each addition before adding more. The sauce should be smooth and silky with no visible bits of cream cheese.
- Add The Cheeses:
- Reduce heat to low before adding shredded cheeses in small handfuls waiting until each addition melts before adding more. This prevents the sauce from becoming grainy or breaking. Add seasonings and taste for salt level remembering that the cheeses contribute saltiness already.
- Combine And Bake:
- Gently fold the chicken and pasta into the cheese sauce until every piece is well coated. Transfer to your prepared baking dish spreading evenly. Mix panko with melted butter ensuring every crumb is moistened then sprinkle evenly over the top. Bake until the edges bubble and the top turns golden brown about 20 to 25 minutes.
Save My family's favorite part of this dish is the contrast between the crunchy topping and the creamy interior. I discovered that letting the mac and cheese rest for 5 10 minutes after baking allows the sauce to set slightly which makes serving much neater and enhances the textural experience.
Make Ahead Tips
This buffalo chicken mac and cheese is perfect for preparing in advance. You can assemble everything up to the baking step cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking and add an extra 10 15 minutes to the baking time since it will be starting cold. The panko topping is best added just before baking to maintain maximum crispness.
Spice Level Adjustments
The beauty of this recipe is how easily you can customize the heat level. For a milder version that kids will enjoy reduce the buffalo sauce to 1/4 cup and increase the milk by 1/4 cup. For spice enthusiasts increase buffalo sauce to 3/4 cup and add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce. You can also serve extra buffalo sauce on the side for those who want an additional kick.
Serving Suggestions
Transform this hearty dish into a complete meal by pairing it with cooling side dishes that balance the heat. A crisp celery and carrot stick platter with ranch or blue cheese dressing echoes traditional buffalo wing accompaniments. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides refreshing contrast to the rich mac and cheese. For a fun presentation serve individual portions in oven safe ramekins topped with their own crispy panko crust.
Healthier Variations
For a lighter version that still delivers on flavor try these modifications. Substitute whole wheat pasta for added fiber and nutrition. Replace half the cream with additional milk or unsweetened almond milk. Use reduced fat cream cheese and part skim mozzarella in place of some of the cheddar. Add finely diced celery and carrots to the sauce for extra vegetables and authentic buffalo wing accompaniment flavors right in the dish.
Save Recipe Questions
- → How spicy is this buffalo chicken mac and cheese?
The heat level is moderate but easily adjusted by varying the amount of buffalo wing sauce or adding extra hot sauce or cayenne pepper.
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken for convenience?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time; just shred the meat and fold into the pasta and sauce mixture.
- → Is blue cheese required?
No, blue cheese is optional. Substitute with more cheddar or Monterey Jack if you prefer a milder flavor.
- → What can I serve alongside this dish?
Celery sticks and a fresh salad balance the richness, while a crisp lager or IPA pairs well with the bold flavors.
- → Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble ahead and refrigerate. Bake just before serving, adding a few minutes to the cook time if needed.