Oh, hello there! Welcome to my little corner of the internet, Delilita, where we celebrate all things delicious and home-cooked. Today, I’m so excited to share a recipe that’s near and dear to my heart—and my family’s stomachs! It’s my Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese, and trust me, it’s a game-changer.

I remember the first time I made this Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese. It was a weeknight, and I was staring into the fridge, desperately trying to figure out what to make for dinner. My kids were begging for mac and cheese, but I was craving something with a bit more…oomph. Suddenly, inspiration struck! I had leftover cooked chicken and a bottle of buffalo wing sauce. Why not combine the two with creamy, cheesy mac? The result was an explosion of flavor and a new family favorite. The tangy spice of the buffalo sauce, the richness of the cheese sauce, and the tender chicken… it’s a symphony in a bowl! I think this recipe is even better than the Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe you can find elsewhere.

Now, I’m not going to lie, my first attempt wasn’t perfect. The sauce was a bit too thin, and the chicken was dry. But after a few tweaks and some serious taste-testing (which my family happily volunteered for), I finally nailed it. The “aha” moment came when I realized the importance of a good roux to thicken the cheese sauce and using chicken thighs instead of breasts for extra moisture. I swear, little things like this are what make all the difference!

Life gets hectic, doesn’t it? Between school runs, soccer practice, and everything else, finding time to cook a decent meal can feel impossible. That’s why I love this Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe. It’s quick, easy, and satisfying. It’s the perfect dish to whip up on a busy weeknight when you need something comforting and delicious on the table fast. Plus, it is easy to customize and you can adapt the recipe and create your own Homemade Buffalo Mac and Cheese.

You know, cooking isn’t just about following a recipe; it’s about creating memories. I cherish the moments my family and I spend around the dinner table, enjoying a delicious meal and sharing stories. And this Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese has become a staple in our family’s story.

My cooking philosophy is simple: use fresh, good-quality ingredients, don’t be afraid to experiment, and most importantly, have fun! So, grab your apron, preheat your oven, and let’s get cooking! I promise, this Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese will become a beloved dish in your home, just like it is in mine. I am confident you will agree this spicy chicken mac recipe is one of the best.

What You’ll Need for This Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

Alright, let’s talk ingredients! Here’s everything you’ll need to create this mouthwatering Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese:

1 pound elbow macaroni: I always use elbow macaroni for my Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese because the shape holds the sauce beautifully.
4 tablespoons butter: Unsalted is best, so you can control the saltiness of the dish.
1/4 cup all-purpose flour: This is for our roux, which will thicken the cheese sauce.
3 cups milk: Whole milk will give you the richest, creamiest sauce, but 2% works just fine too.
4 cups shredded cheddar cheese: I prefer a sharp cheddar for that extra flavor kick in my Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese.
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: This adds a lovely melty texture and mild flavor that complements the cheddar.
1 cup buffalo wing sauce: Use your favorite brand! I like one that has a good balance of heat and tang.
1 pound cooked chicken, shredded: I always use chicken thighs for my Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese because they stay nice and juicy.
1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles (optional): For that classic buffalo wing flavor.
Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t forget to season!

When making Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese, you can often find really great deals on cheese at your local warehouse store. I stock up when there’s a sale! Here’s a Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese trick I learned from my grandma: shred your own cheese! Pre-shredded cheese often has cellulose added to prevent clumping, which can affect how it melts.

For a quick and easy shortcut, use rotisserie chicken for your Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese. It saves a ton of time, and it’s already cooked and seasoned! As for storage, leftover cooked chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure it’s cooled down completely before storing.

And one last tip: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of cheese! Try adding some Gruyere or Gouda for a more complex flavor profile. This Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese | Don’t Go Bacon My Heart recipe has some other ideas for great cheeses.

Let’s Make This Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese Together

Alright, friends, let’s get down to business! Here’s how to make this incredible Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese, step by step. I promise, it’s easier than you think!

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. I like to use butter for this, but cooking spray works just as well.
Cook the macaroni according to package directions. Be sure to cook it al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Once it’s cooked, drain it well and set it aside. Don’t worry if your Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese macaroni sticks together a little bit; it will all come together in the end!
Make the cheese sauce. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This is your roux! It should smell slightly nutty. I learned the hard way with Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese that if you don’t cook the roux long enough, your sauce will taste floury.
Slowly whisk in the milk until smooth. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Be patient! It will thicken.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This is where the magic happens! Your creamy buffalo chicken mac and cheese should smell like cheesy heaven.
Stir in the buffalo wing sauce and shredded chicken. Make sure everything is well combined. If you like a cheesier recipe check out this Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese – Sugar Spun Run recipe, they add cream cheese!
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to coat. Make sure every noodle is covered in that delicious sauce.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. If you’re using blue cheese crumbles, sprinkle them over the top.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. In my kitchen, Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese usually takes exactly 22 minutes. While the Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is cooking, I usually tidy up the kitchen or catch up on a few emails.
Let the Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese cool for a few minutes before serving. This will prevent you from burning your mouth!

And that’s it! You’ve just made a batch of delicious Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese. Give yourself a pat on the back! If you need more help, check out this Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe.

How I Love to Serve This Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

Now that you’ve made this amazing Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese, let’s talk about how to serve it! Presentation and pairings can make all the difference.

My family loves this Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese when I serve it with a simple side salad. The cool, crisp greens provide a nice contrast to the rich, cheesy dish. I usually just toss some lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette.

This Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is perfect for potlucks, game day gatherings, or just a cozy night in. It’s always a crowd-pleaser! For presentation, I like to sprinkle a little extra blue cheese crumbles and a drizzle of buffalo wing sauce over the top before serving. It makes it look extra fancy!

If you have extra Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese (which is rare in my house!), it reheats beautifully. Just pop it in the microwave or oven until heated through. You can even add a little milk or cream to the leftovers to keep them from drying out. Sometimes I even add a little extra buffalo wing sauce for an extra kick.

I’ve also experimented with seasonal variations. In the fall, I like to add roasted butternut squash to my Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese. It adds a touch of sweetness that complements the spice perfectly. I even have a great recipe for Butternut Squash Soup on my blog. In the summer, I’ll sometimes add grilled corn for a bit of smoky sweetness.

Friends always ask for this Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe whenever I make it. It’s just that good! It is a great way to enjoy buffalo chicken pasta without all of the fuss.

Your Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese Questions Answered

Got questions about making Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese? I’ve got answers! Here are some of the most common questions I get about this recipe, along with my tried-and-true solutions.

Q: My cheese sauce is grainy. What did I do wrong?

A: Ah, the dreaded grainy cheese sauce! This usually happens when the cheese is overheated or not enough liquid is used. Next time, make sure to remove the saucepan from the heat before adding the cheese, and stir it in slowly until it’s just melted. You can also add a splash of milk or cream to help smooth it out. You know what I do when my Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese cheese sauce turns grainy? I add a little bit of cream cheese. It is my little secret to the perfect cheese sauce!

Q: Can I make this Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! You can assemble the Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to make sure it’s heated through.

Q: My Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is too spicy for my kids. How can I tone it down?

A: I get it! Not everyone loves the heat. You can reduce the amount of buffalo wing sauce or use a milder version. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to each serving to help cool it down. My kids sometimes like to add a little bit of honey to their Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese to sweeten it up.

Q: Can I use different types of pasta?

A: Of course! While I prefer elbow macaroni for this Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese, you can use any type of pasta you like. Penne, rotini, or even shells would work well. Try to stay away from thin pasta as it can be overwhelmed by the cheese.

Q: Can I add vegetables to this Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese?

A: Definitely! Feel free to add any vegetables you like. Broccoli, peas, or carrots would be great additions. Just make sure to cook them before adding them to the Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese.

Q: Can I freeze this Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese?

A: Yes, you can freeze this Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese, but the texture may change slightly. The cheese sauce might become a bit grainy after thawing. To minimize this, let the Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese cool completely before freezing, and thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.

Q: Can I use pre-shredded cheese for the Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese?

A: While it is convenient, I don’t recommend it. I have always found pre-shredded cheese does not melt as well. Make sure the cheese is fresh.

My Final Thoughts on This Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

This Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese isn’t just a recipe; it’s a hug in a bowl. It’s the perfect combination of comfort food and bold flavors. It’s a dish that brings my family together around the table, and I hope it does the same for you.

Here are a few of my Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese Pro Tips:

Use good-quality cheese. It makes a huge difference in the flavor and texture of the sauce.
Don’t overcook the macaroni. You want it to be al dente, so it doesn’t get mushy in the oven.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of buffalo wing sauce. Find one that suits your taste!

Over the years, I’ve tried a few variations of this recipe. My husband loves it with extra blue cheese crumbles, while my kids prefer it with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top for added crunch. I’ve even made a version with jalapenos for an extra kick. If you have a picky family, you can even make Tortellini Vegetable Soup!

Ultimately, the best Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is the one you make your own. So, don’t be afraid to tweak the recipe, add your own personal touch, and most importantly, have fun in the kitchen!

I hope you enjoy making this Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese as much as I do. It’s a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite, just like it has in my home. So, go ahead, give it a try! You won’t be disappointed. This cheesy buffalo chicken bake is worth it!

Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

Print Recipe

This Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese combines creamy, cheesy goodness with a fiery kick. It’s a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for a weeknight meal.

Author: Liliana
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Category: Dinner
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound elbow macaroni
4 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
3 cups milk
4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles
1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce, plus more for drizzling
1 pound cooked chicken, shredded
2 tablespoons ranch dressing
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: chopped green onions for garnish

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain well.
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, until thickened.
Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese and blue cheese until melted and smooth.
Stir in buffalo wing sauce, shredded chicken, and ranch dressing. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to coat.
Pour into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired, and drizzle with extra buffalo sauce.

Notes

For an extra crispy top, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the mac and cheese before baking. Serve with a side of celery sticks and blue cheese dressing for dipping.