Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad is a delightful combination of spicy buffalo chicken, creamy dressing, and tender pasta, making it a perfect dish for picnics, potlucks, or a satisfying meal. This salad is packed with flavor and is sure to be a hit with anyone who loves the tangy taste of buffalo sauce.
Why This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad Is the Best
- Spicy and Tangy Buffalo Sauce: The buffalo sauce adds a spicy and tangy kick to the chicken, making each bite flavorful.
- Creamy Dressing: The creamy dressing balances the spiciness of the buffalo sauce, making the salad rich and satisfying.
- Tender Pasta: The pasta is cooked to perfection, ensuring it is tender and absorbs the flavors well.
- Fresh and Crunchy Vegetables: The salad includes fresh vegetables like celery and carrots, adding a crunchy texture and freshness.
- Topped with Green Onions: Garnished with chopped green onions, the salad is not only delicious but also visually appealing.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, attending a potluck, or looking for a delicious and satisfying meal, Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad is the perfect choice. The combination of spicy buffalo chicken, creamy dressing, and tender pasta makes it a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredient Notes
- Rotini Pasta: Holds the creamy buffalo dressing well with its shape, providing a hearty base for the salad.
- Shredded Chicken: Adds protein and pairs perfectly with the buffalo flavors. Rotisserie chicken is ideal for convenience.
- Buffalo Sauce and Ranch Dressing: The buffalo sauce brings heat, while ranch adds a cool, creamy contrast.
- Mozzarella Cheese and Mayonnaise: Mozzarella adds a mild, creamy texture that balances the spiciness, and mayonnaise adds richness to the dressing.
- Chopped Red Pepper and Scallions: Add a fresh crunch and a touch of sweetness to balance the spicy elements.
Tips for Making the Best Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh, high-quality chicken and vegetables.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook the pasta just until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Season Generously: Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and extra buffalo sauce to your taste.
- Let It Chill: Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving to let the flavors meld together.
Serving Suggestions
- With a Side of Garlic Bread: Serve Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad with garlic bread for an extra touch of flavor.
- With Fresh Veggies: Pair with a side of fresh veggies like celery sticks or carrot sticks for added crunch and nutrition.
- With a Side Salad: Enjoy with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- With a Cold Drink: Serve with a cold drink like iced tea or lemonade to complement the spicy flavors.
- With Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing: Add a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for those who want an extra creamy dip.
A Must Try
Dive into this bold and delicious Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad, where the heat of buffalo sauce meets the cooling touch of a creamy dressing. Perfectly tender pasta and fresh, crunchy vegetables make this dish a well-rounded delight. Ideal for any gathering or a special treat at home, it’s a flavor-packed adventure that will have everyone coming back for more.
Be sure to check out these other delicious dinner recipes!
-
Creamy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
-
Buffalo Chicken Pasta
-
Buffalo Chicken Pizza
-
Buffalo Chicken Soup
-
Crispy Buffalo Wings
-
Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
-
Buffalo Chicken Wrap
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 ½ cups shredded chicken
- ⅓ cup chopped red pepper
- ½ cup buffalo sauce
- ½ cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 2 tabelspoon chopped scallions
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the pasta following the package instructions. Drain it well, then transfer to a large bowl. Add the chicken breast and red pepper, stirring until everything is evenly combined.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, mayonnaise, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth. Pour this sauce over the pasta mixture and stir until everything is well coated.
- Stir in the mozzarella cheese, letting it melt slightly as the pasta is still warm. Sprinkle with chives on top and serve immediately.