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–+ servings
Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

Creamy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese for Cozy Nights

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese combines creamy richness with spicy goodness, perfect for cozy nights and gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz elbow macaroni can substitute with rotini or penne
For the Chicken
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken can use shredded beef or tofu
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup buffalo sauce adjust heat level as preferred
  • 4 oz cream cheese substitute with sour cream or ricotta
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese may replace with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack
  • ½ cup mozzarella cheese any melty cheese can work
  • 2 cups milk use dairy-free milk if needed
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder fresh garlic can be used
  • 2 teaspoons onion powder fresh onions can be substituted
  • to taste salt
  • to taste pepper
For the Topping
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs can use regular breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup green onions chives can be used as a substitute

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • skillet
  • Saucepan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking Dish

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken, seasoned with salt and pepper, sauté for 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Remove from heat.
  3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, whisk in flour to form a roux, then gradually add milk until smooth. Stir in cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and buffalo sauce until creamy.
  4. In a bowl, combine macaroni, cheese sauce, and chicken. Stir gently to coat evenly.
  5. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish and sprinkle panko breadcrumbs on top.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbling and golden on top.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Make ahead by assembling the dish and refrigerating for up to 24 hours before baking.

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