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To create the perfect Buffalo Chicken Mac & Cheese, it’s essential to understand the key components that come together to make this dish truly special. Each ingredient plays a vital role in delivering the flavor and texture that makes this dish a standout.

Buffalo Chicken Mac & Cheese

Craving a dish that combines comfort and spice? Try making Buffalo Chicken Mac & Cheese! This delightful recipe takes classic mac and cheese to the next level by adding savory rotisserie chicken and zesty Buffalo sauce. Perfect for family dinners or game day gatherings, it features creamy cheeses and tender pasta, ensuring every bite is filled with flavor. Follow our step-by-step guide to create this mouthwatering dish that's sure to impress your guests!
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Ingredients
  

For the MAC & CHEESE:

8 oz elbow macaroni

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

1/2 cup cream cheese, softened

3 cups milk

1/4 cup unsalted butter

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and black pepper to taste

For the BUFFALO CHICKEN:

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great!)

1/2 cup Buffalo sauce (more for extra spice)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1/2 teaspoon paprika

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

For GARNISH:

Chopped green onions

Crumbled blue cheese (optional)

Extra Buffalo sauce for drizzling

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta:

    - In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

      Prepare the Buffalo Chicken:

        - In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Toss in the shredded chicken, Buffalo sauce, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir until the chicken is well-coated and heated through. Set aside.

          Make the Cheese Sauce:

            - In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes until lightly golden (this is your roux).

              - Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens and comes to a simmer.

                - Add cream cheese, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.

                  - Remove from heat and gradually fold in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and thoroughly combined.

                    Combine Ingredients:

                      - Mix the cooked elbow macaroni into the cheese sauce until evenly coated. Fold in the Buffalo chicken mixture gently until well combined.

                        Serve:

                          - Spoon the Buffalo Chicken Mac & Cheese into bowls or a large serving dish. Garnish with chopped green onions, crumbled blue cheese (if desired), and drizzle with additional Buffalo sauce for an extra kick.

                            Enjoy!

                              - Serve hot and enjoy this spicy twist on a classic comfort food!

                                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4-6