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Cozy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

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A warm and satisfying comfort food combining creamy mac and cheese with spicy buffalo chicken, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni (about 225 grams)
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (about 300 grams)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (about 55 grams)
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (30 grams)
  • 3 cups whole milk (720 ml)
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 200 grams)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (100 grams)
  • 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (120 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: crumbled blue cheese, chopped green onions, extra buffalo sauce for drizzle

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, about 7 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Whisk in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour and stir constantly for about 2 minutes until smooth and bubbly but not browned.
  3. Gradually whisk in 3 cups of whole milk, stirring frequently to avoid lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar and 1 cup shredded mozzarella until melted and smooth. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
  5. Add 2 cups cooked shredded chicken and 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce to the cheese sauce. Stir gently until chicken is evenly coated and heated through.
  6. Fold the drained macaroni into the buffalo chicken cheese sauce until well mixed.
  7. Optional: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer mac and cheese to a greased 8×8 inch baking dish. Top with extra shredded cheese or crumbled blue cheese if desired. Bake for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
  8. Garnish with chopped green onions or a drizzle of extra buffalo sauce if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

Do not overcook pasta as it will continue cooking in the sauce. Add cheese off heat or on low heat to prevent graininess. Use freshly shredded cheese for best melting. Adjust buffalo sauce to preferred spice level. Baking is optional for a crispy top. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: buffalo chicken, mac and cheese, comfort food, easy dinner, spicy, creamy, homemade

Find it online: https://fizzlefork.com/cozy-buffalo-chicken-mac-and-cheese-recipe-easy-homemade-comfort-food/