This Easy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad is a fun and zesty twist on salad! With tender pasta, juicy chicken, and a kick of buffalo sauce, it’s sure to brighten up your meal.
I love how simple it is to whip up, and it’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Plus, who can resist a dish that tastes amazing and satisfies those spicy cravings? Yum! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I use rotini for its fun spiral shape that holds onto the dressing really well. You can swap in penne or farfalle if you want, both work nicely too!
Chicken: Grilled chicken is my favorite for this salad as it adds great flavor. If you’re pressed for time, rotisserie chicken is an easy alternative!
Buffalo Sauce: This is where the spice comes from! Adjust the amount based on your heat preference. If you’re sensitive to spice, try a milder barbecue sauce instead.
Dressings: I love using both mayonnaise and ranch dressing for creaminess. If you prefer healthier options, Greek yogurt or avocado dressing can be great substitutes.
Vegetables: Carrots and celery give a nice crunch. Feel free to mix in chopped bell peppers or cucumbers for some extra freshness.
How Do I Get My Pasta Just Right?
Cooking the pasta perfectly sets the foundation for this salad! Here’s how to do it.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the pasta. Follow the package instructions for cooking time, but check a minute or two early for that al dente texture.
- Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This will keep it from getting mushy.
- Transfer it to a large bowl, and make sure it’s cool before mixing in the rest of the ingredients!
Perfect pasta makes all the difference in this delicious salad! Enjoy preparing this dish—it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Easy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz rotini or spiral pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, sliced or shredded (grilled or pan-seared)
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing
- 1/2 cup shredded carrot
- 1/4 cup diced celery
- 2 green onions, sliced (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)
- Salt to taste
Time Needed:
This Easy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad can be prepared in about 15 minutes. Don’t forget to allow an extra 30 minutes in the fridge to chill, so the flavors can meld together perfectly!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s nice and al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and give it a quick rinse under cold water to cool it down. This will help prevent it from becoming mushy. Transfer the cooled pasta to a large mixing bowl.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, buffalo wing sauce, and ranch or blue cheese dressing until everything is smoothly combined. Adjust the buffalo sauce based on how spicy you want your salad; you can add a little more if you like that extra kick!
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Now, add the shredded carrots, diced celery, black pepper, and garlic powder to your bowl of cooled pasta. Pour the buffalo dressing over everything, and toss gently to make sure all the pasta and vegetables are coated evenly.
4. Add the Chicken:
Next, stir in the sliced green onions to add a fresh touch. Finally, lay the cooked chicken breast slices on top of the pasta salad. It’s looking good already!
5. Chill and Serve:
Garnish with some extra green onions and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a bit more heat. Now, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to blend beautifully!
And there you have it! Serve it up and enjoy this creamy, spicy, and delicious Easy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad! It’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or just a delightful meal at home.
FAQ for Easy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Using store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred the chicken and toss it in just before serving for an easy and flavorful addition!
Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
Yes! You can replace the chicken with grilled vegetables, chickpeas, or tofu for a hearty vegetarian alternative. Adjust the buffalo sauce to suit your taste, ensuring it fits the vegetarian profile if needed.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If the pasta absorbs too much dressing over time, you can add a little more mayo or ranch dressing before serving.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to mix in other crunchy veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, or cherry tomatoes. They add extra color and flavor to your salad!
