Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese brings together all the best elements of comfort food into one bold, creamy, and satisfying dish. The tender shredded chicken soaked in spicy buffalo sauce pairs beautifully with rich, velvety cheese sauce and perfectly cooked pasta. The golden, crispy panko topping adds a delightful crunch with every bite, while optional blue cheese crumbles give that signature tangy bite.
This dish is ideal for game nights, casual dinner parties, or when you just need something that hits all the flavor notes—cheesy, spicy, and downright comforting. Easy to make and impossible to resist, it’s a recipe that will quickly become a favorite in any household. Whether served as a main course or a potluck hero, this mac and cheese will always bring the heat.
Full Recipe:
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1 lb elbow macaroni
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2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
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1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
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4 tablespoons butter
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¼ cup all-purpose flour
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2 cups whole milk
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1 cup heavy cream
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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½ teaspoon onion powder
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Salt and pepper to taste
Buffalo Chicken Mixture:
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2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
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½ cup buffalo sauce (adjust to spice preference)
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2 tablespoons butter
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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¼ teaspoon paprika
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¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Topping:
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1 cup panko breadcrumbs
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2 tablespoons butter, melted
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½ cup blue cheese crumbles (optional)
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2 tablespoons green onions, chopped
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Cook elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente (about 7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
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In a saucepan, melt 4 tbsp butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
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Gradually add milk and cream while whisking until thickened (4-5 minutes).
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Lower heat, stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add cheddar and mozzarella; stir until melted and smooth.
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In another pan, melt 2 tbsp butter. Add shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne. Stir to coat chicken and cook for 3-5 minutes.
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Combine cooked pasta and cheese sauce. Fold in buffalo chicken until evenly mixed.
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Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13″ baking dish. Mix panko with melted butter, sprinkle on top.
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Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
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Garnish with blue cheese and green onions. Serve warm.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 550 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
What Is Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese?
Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is a fiery, creamy comfort food mashup that combines the richness of traditional mac and cheese with the bold, spicy flavors of buffalo chicken. It’s a fan-favorite dish for those who crave cheesy indulgence with a punch of heat. This recipe brings together tender shredded chicken coated in tangy buffalo sauce, creamy cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked macaroni — all topped with a golden, crispy breadcrumb crust. It’s not just a side dish; it’s a complete, crowd-pleasing meal.
This dish pays homage to two American classics: mac and cheese and buffalo wings. The blend of heat and creaminess makes it ideal for game-day gatherings, potlucks, or cozy nights in. It’s indulgent, satisfying, and incredibly versatile — a perfect recipe to keep on hand when you want something a little extra special.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese hits the mark for both comfort food lovers and spicy food enthusiasts. It’s the kind of meal that offers both creamy decadence and a kick of heat in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or spice lovers, this dish can easily be adjusted to suit your crowd.
What makes this dish stand out is its balance of textures and flavors. You’ve got tender pasta, juicy chicken, rich cheese, spicy buffalo sauce, and a buttery, crunchy topping — all in one bite. It’s a culinary win for those who want the comfort of mac and cheese with an edgy twist.
The Origin of Buffalo Flavor
The term “buffalo” in cooking refers to the flavor profile inspired by the famous Buffalo wings first served at the Anchor Bar in Buffalo, New York, in 1964. The original sauce was a simple mix of cayenne pepper hot sauce and melted butter, and over time, this spicy, tangy flavor became a beloved staple across the U.S.
Now, buffalo sauce isn’t just for wings. It has expanded into dips, pizzas, wraps, and now — mac and cheese. The popularity of buffalo-flavored dishes has soared, and combining it with mac and cheese is a natural progression that’s become a modern classic in its own right.
Best Cheese Combinations
One of the great aspects of this recipe is the flexibility with cheese. A blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella is a classic pairing — cheddar provides depth and sharpness, while mozzarella adds gooey meltability.
If you’re looking to change things up, try Pepper Jack for some extra heat, Monterey Jack for a smoother melt, or even smoked gouda for a richer, more complex flavor. Just make sure your cheese choices melt well and complement the heat from the buffalo sauce.
Customizing the Spice Level
Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese can be as spicy or mild as you like. You can easily tailor the dish by adjusting the amount of buffalo sauce or using a milder hot sauce. If you’re cooking for kids or spice-sensitive guests, mixing buffalo sauce with ranch dressing or cream cheese can soften the heat while preserving flavor.
Want more fire? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce or chicken mixture. You can even drizzle extra hot sauce on top before serving for those who like it blazing.
Protein Alternatives and Vegetarian Options
Chicken is the most common protein used in this recipe, but it’s far from the only option. You can substitute ground turkey, shredded pork, or grilled tofu to suit different diets or pantry availability.
For a vegetarian version, skip the meat and instead stir in sautéed mushrooms, roasted cauliflower, or plant-based chicken alternatives. The rich cheese sauce and buffalo seasoning still deliver big flavor even without the meat.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare the entire dish, assemble it in a baking dish, and refrigerate it (covered) for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it great for meal prep or party planning.
After baking, leftovers store beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven, or use a microwave in short bursts with a splash of milk to keep it creamy.
You can also freeze it, either baked or unbaked. Just wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake until heated through.
Crispy Topping Options
The topping is what takes this dish from great to unforgettable. Panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter provide a light, crunchy texture that contrasts perfectly with the creamy pasta. You can also sprinkle grated Parmesan into the breadcrumb mix for a cheesy boost.
For a gluten-free alternative, try crushed gluten-free crackers, cornflakes, or seasoned gluten-free breadcrumbs. If you prefer a softer finish, skip the topping entirely or cover the mac and cheese with a layer of melted mozzarella.
Flavor Enhancers and Garnishes
Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is already bursting with flavor, but you can easily elevate it with a few finishing touches. Blue cheese crumbles are a classic pairing with buffalo sauce, adding tang and boldness that cut through the richness. Green onions or chives offer freshness and a pop of color.
A drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing adds creaminess and helps balance the heat. For extra spice, hot sauce lovers can go wild with their favorite brand over the top.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is hearty enough to serve on its own, but pairing it with the right side can round out the meal. A crisp green salad with ranch dressing offers a refreshing contrast. Roasted vegetables like broccoli or carrots can lighten things up and add some color to your plate.
For game day spreads, serve it in ramekins or small cups for a shareable, snackable format. You can also offer it as a side to grilled meats, wings, or sliders. It’s a hit at potlucks, cookouts, or anywhere cheesy comfort food is welcome.
Healthier Swaps
While this dish leans indulgent, there are ways to lighten it up without losing flavor. Use whole-wheat or legume-based pasta for added fiber and protein. Swap heavy cream with evaporated milk or low-fat milk combined with Greek yogurt.
Instead of butter and flour for the roux, try blending cooked cauliflower or butternut squash into the cheese sauce. It boosts nutrition and maintains creaminess. Plant-based cheeses and dairy-free milk alternatives work well for dairy-free diets, too.
Why This Dish Is a Crowd Favorite
What makes Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese so appealing is its ability to please a wide range of palates. It’s a guaranteed conversation-starter at parties, a soul-warming dinner after a long day, and a fun twist on two nostalgic favorites.
It also offers plenty of room for creativity. You can make it your own with personalized spice levels, cheese blends, toppings, and more. Once you’ve mastered the base recipe, it’s easy to experiment and adapt it for any occasion or dietary need.
Conclusion
Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is the ultimate fusion of bold flavor and classic comfort. It combines the zing of buffalo chicken with the creamy indulgence of mac and cheese in a dish that’s both cozy and exciting. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, hosting guests, or looking to impress at your next potluck, this recipe delivers every time.
Its adaptability, make-ahead convenience, and irresistible taste make it a reliable go-to meal in any kitchen. Once you try it, don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular in your comfort food rotation — and a frequent request from friends and family.