Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food that combines creamy cheese, spicy buffalo sauce, and tender chicken ,this buffalo chicken mac and cheese recipe is your answer. Whether you love the flavor of buffalo wild wings mac and cheese, or want something meal-prep friendly, this version checks all the boxes and is even better homemade.

Ingredients

• 16 oz elbow macaroni

• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken (dark meat preferred)

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 3 cups whole milk

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese

• ½ cup buffalo hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot or similar)

• ½ cup crumbled gorgonzola or blue cheese

• Optional: ½ cup seasoned breadcrumbs (for topping)

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese (8-Step Recipe)

Step 1: Cook the Macaroni

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Cut the wings and legs from your rotisserie chicken. Remove the skin and bones, and shred the dark meat into bite-sized pieces. Using dark meat enhances the buffalo flavor.

Step 3: Make a Roux

In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until a smooth, thick paste forms. Cook for 1–2 minutes until golden and aromatic.

Step 4: Create the Sauce Base

Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens and begins to bubble, about 5 minutes. Add a pinch of salt and black pepper for flavor.

Step 5: Melt the Cheese

Lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Mix until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Add Buffalo Flavor

Pour in the buffalo hot sauce and stir to combine. Then add the crumbled gorgonzola or blue cheese. Stir well to infuse the sauce with bold buffalo chicken dip flavor.

Step 7: Combine Pasta and Chicken

Add the cooked macaroni and shredded chicken into the cheese sauce. Stir until everything is evenly coated and combined into a rich, creamy mixture.

Step 8: Serve Hot and Spicy

Spoon the buffalo chicken mac and cheese into bowls and serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Meal Prep Friendly

This recipe is perfect for buffalo chicken mac and cheese meal prep. After cooking, divide into airtight containers and store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Add a splash of milk when reheating to bring back its creamy texture.

FAQs

1. Can I make it extra crispy like crispy chicken mac and cheese?

Yes! Add panko or seasoned breadcrumbs on top and bake until golden. You can also top with crispy chicken bites for extra crunch.

2. What’s the best cheese substitute for gorgonzola?

Blue cheese is a great alternative. If you want a milder flavor, try cream cheese or goat cheese.

3. How spicy is this recipe?

It depends on how much hot sauce you use. Start with ½ cup and increase to taste. You can also add cayenne for more heat.

4. Is this similar to Buffalo Wild Wings mac and cheese?

Absolutely, it’s inspired by their creamy, spicy version but with more homemade flavor and quality ingredients.

5. Can I use chicken breast instead of dark meat?

You can, but dark meat gives a juicier, more flavorful result that complements the buffalo sauce better.

Conclusion

This buffalo chicken mac and cheese recipe brings together the richness of melted cheese, the bold kick of buffalo sauce, and tender shredded chicken in one unforgettable dish. Whether you’re cooking for family, prepping meals for the week, or recreating your favorite buffalo wild wings mac and cheese recipe, this version delivers every time. Easy, customizable, and totally crave-worthy, serve it hot and spicy for the best results.