Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Steps

1. 1 Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. 2 Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente; drain.
3. 3 In a saucepan, melt 1/4 cup butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux.
4. 4 Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until thickened.
5. 5 Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted.
6. 6 Mix cooked chicken with buffalo sauce in a separate bowl.
7. 7 Combine macaroni, cheese sauce, and buffalo chicken in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
8. 8 In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and garlic powder. Sprinkle over the top.
9. 9 Bake for 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
10. 10 Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Equipment

• Large pot
• 9x13 inch baking dish
• Whisk
• Mixing bowls

Variations

• Add crumbled blue cheese for a traditional Buffalo flavor boost.
• Substitute half the chicken with diced celery for extra crunch.

Substitutions

• Use sharp cheddar for a stronger cheese flavor.
• Substitute panko breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes for a gluten-free option.

Pairings

• Pairs well with a cold beer or a glass of Chardonnay.
• Great for game day spreads or family dinners.

Nutrition

Tips

• For extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.
• Use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut.

Storage

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a 350°F oven until bubbly.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of celery sticks and ranch dressing for a classic Buffalo experience.
• Pairs well with a crisp green salad.

FAQ