This yummy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad is a fun twist on dinner! It’s full of tender pasta, juicy chicken, and a kick of spicy buffalo sauce. Perfect for lunch or a picnic.
I love how it’s easy to make and so colorful! Just boil the pasta, mix in your chicken, and toss with veggies and sauce. It’s a crowd-pleaser that disappears fast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: I recommend rotini for its fun shape and ability to hold onto the sauce. However, feel free to swap it out for penne or fusilli if you have those on hand. Any pasta you like will work!
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is my go-to for convenience. If you’re short on time, you could also use diced canned chicken or leftover grilled chicken. Even tofu can work if you’re looking for a vegetarian option.
Buffalo Sauce: Frank’s RedHot is a classic choice, but you can adjust the heat by choosing a mild or extra hot sauce based on your preference. For a less spicy option, try using barbecue sauce or a mild wing sauce.
Ranch Dressing: If you’re not a ranch fan, creamy blue cheese dressing can make a tasty substitute. You could also make your own dressing using yogurt and herbs for a healthier twist.
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta Salad is Extra Flavorful?
To ensure your pasta salad is bursting with flavor, focus on combining your ingredients well. Here’s how:
- After cooking the pasta, rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking process and keep the texture firm.
- Mix your shredded chicken with the buffalo sauce first for that flavorful base, then add the veggies and pasta.
- Chilling the salad is key! Rest it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes so the flavors meld together beautifully.
Finally, always taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before serving. This simple step can elevate your dish!
Easy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups rotini pasta (about 8 oz)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/3 cup crumbled blue cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta salad takes about 20 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In just under an hour, you’ll have a flavorful dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package directions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Set it aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded cooked chicken. Pour the buffalo sauce over it and toss everything together until the chicken is well coated in the sauce. This will give your pasta salad that delicious spicy kick!
3. Mix in Remaining Ingredients:
Add the cooled pasta, shredded carrots, diced celery, chopped green onions, and ranch dressing to the bowl with the buffalo chicken. Toss everything together gently until all the ingredients are well combined. This vibrant mix of colors and flavors makes the salad super appealing!
4. Add Cheese and Season:
Carefully fold in the crumbled blue cheese, mixing it in slowly to keep some of it intact for added texture. Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste, and give it another gentle stir to incorporate everything.
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time helps the flavors meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, garnish with extra blue cheese and green onions if you like!
Enjoy this creamy, tangy, and spicy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad at your next gathering or as a delicious lunch option. It’s sure to be a hit!
FAQ for Easy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover grilled or rotisserie chicken works perfectly in this pasta salad. Just shred it up, and you’re good to go! This is a great way to use up any extra chicken you have in the fridge.
How Do I Make This Pasta Salad Spicier?
If you love extra heat, consider adding some chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper along with your buffalo sauce. You could also use a hotter brand of buffalo sauce to kick up the spice level even more!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, give it a gentle stir and feel free to add a little more ranch dressing or buffalo sauce to refresh the flavors.
Can I Make This Pasta Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This pasta salad is perfect for prepping ahead. You can make it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to add the green onions just before serving for optimal freshness.
