This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad is a deliciously tangy and creamy dish with the perfect balance of heat and coolness. The combination of tender pasta, shredded chicken, spicy buffalo sauce, and creamy dressing makes for an irresistible dish that’s sure to become a hit at your next gathering.
Ingredients
250 g pasta (penne, rotini, or bowtie)
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
½ cup buffalo sauce
½ cup ranch or blue cheese dressing
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup diced celery
¼ cup diced red onion
¼ cup chopped green onions
¼ cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
I start by cooking the pasta according to the package directions, then draining and rinsing it with cold water to cool it down quickly.
In a large bowl, I mix the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce until it's evenly coated.
Next, I add the pasta, ranch (or blue cheese) dressing, cheddar cheese, diced celery, and red onion to the bowl. I toss everything together until well combined.
I let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Before serving, I garnish the pasta salad with chopped green onions and crumbled blue cheese (if I’m using it).
Servings and Timing
Servings: This recipe makes about 4-6 servings.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Variations
If I want to mix things up, I can try different dressings like a creamy sriracha ranch or a combination of ranch and blue cheese for extra flavor. Sometimes, I’ll add in diced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for a burst of color and freshness. For a lighter version, I can also swap out the pasta for a cauliflower or zucchini noodle substitute.
Storage/Reheating
I like to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. This pasta salad stays good for up to 3 days, and it’s even more flavorful after it has had time to sit and marinate in the fridge. Since this is a cold pasta salad, there's no need to reheat it. Just grab a spoon and enjoy straight from the fridge!
FAQs
How long can I store the Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad?
I usually store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors only get better as it sits!
Can I make this ahead of time for a party?
Absolutely! I recommend making it a few hours or even a day in advance so the flavors can really develop.
Can I use something other than ranch or blue cheese dressing?
Yes, you can try other creamy dressings like Caesar or even a tangy vinaigrette if you prefer a lighter flavor.
What kind of pasta is best for this recipe?
I like to use penne, rotini, or bowtie pasta, but any bite-sized pasta will work well in this salad.
Is this recipe spicy?
It has a nice spicy kick from the buffalo sauce, but if you’re sensitive to heat, you can adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to suit your taste.
Conclusion
This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The blend of spicy buffalo sauce, creamy dressing, and tender chicken creates a salad that’s both satisfying and refreshing. Whether I’m making it for a BBQ, potluck, or just a quick lunch, it’s always a crowd-pleaser. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!.
Recipe:
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
Description
This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad combines creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing with spicy buffalo sauce, tender pasta, and protein-packed shredded chicken. It’s a perfect mix of heat and coolness, making it an irresistible dish for BBQs, potlucks, or a quick meal. Easy to prepare and even better when made ahead of time, this pasta salad will be the star of your next gathering
Ingredients
250 g pasta (penne, rotini, or bowtie)
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
½ cup buffalo sauce
½ cup ranch or blue cheese dressing
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup diced celery
¼ cup diced red onion
¼ cup chopped green onions
¼ cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions, drain, and rinse with cold water to cool quickly.
- In a large bowl, toss shredded chicken with buffalo sauce until evenly coated.
- Add cooked pasta, ranch (or blue cheese) dressing, shredded cheddar, diced celery, and red onion to the bowl and mix well.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Before serving, garnish with chopped green onions and optional crumbled blue cheese.
Notes
For added freshness, you can add diced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes.
For a lighter version, swap pasta with cauliflower or zucchini noodles.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4-6 servings
