This buffalo chicken pasta salad is a spicy and hearty dish that’s super easy to make! It’s packed with pasta, juicy chicken, and a tasty buffalo sauce that brings everything to life.
Honestly, this dish is perfect for get-togethers! The mix of flavors always gets compliments, and I love how leftovers taste even better the next day. Who doesn’t enjoy a little kick in their salad? 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This spiral shape holds the dressing and adds texture. If you don’t have rotini, penne or fusilli can work just as well!
Cooked Chicken: I recommend using rotisserie chicken for its simplicity and rich flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, grilled chicken breast is a fantastic substitute. You can even use canned chicken if you’re in a pinch!
Buffalo Wing Sauce: The magic of this dish comes from its spice! If you want less heat, go for a mild buffalo sauce or reduce the amount used. You could also try sriracha mixed with ranch for a different twist.
Ranch Dressing: Ranch is a classic pairing, but if you prefer a stronger flavor, blue cheese dressing is a great alternative. You can even make a homemade version if you have the time!
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: I love adding sharp cheddar for its flavor, but feel free to mix it up! Monterey Jack or pepper jack offer a fun twist. Vegan cheese can be used for a dairy-free option.
How Can I Make the Perfect Pasta Salad?
Making a pasta salad might seem straightforward, but there are a few tips that can take it to the next level:
- Cook Pasta Right: Cook your rotini until it’s just al dente. This means it’ll be firm to the bite but not too chewy.
- Cool It Down: Rinsing the pasta under cold water helps stop the cooking process. This keeps it from becoming mushy.
- Mix Dressings Well: Make sure to thoroughly combine the buffalo sauce with ranch. This ensures every bite is flavorful and not just one-dimensional.
- Chill Before Serving: Let the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
By following these tips, you’ll achieve a pasta salad that’s as delicious as it is satisfying! Enjoy your cooking!
Best Ever Easy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces rotini pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie or cooked breast)
- 1 cup carrots, shredded or julienned
- 1 cup celery, thinly sliced
- ½ cup buffalo wing sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup ranch dressing (or blue cheese dressing if preferred)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious buffalo chicken pasta salad takes about 15 minutes of prep time. You’ll spend a few minutes cooking the pasta and mixing everything together. For the best flavor, it’s a good idea to chill it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. So, in total, it’s around 45 minutes including chilling time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package instructions. Aim for al dente, which means it should be firm but not hard. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down.
2. Mix the Veggies and Chicken:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, shredded chicken, shredded carrots, and sliced celery. This mixture gives a great crunch and flavor that pairs well with the sauce.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, pour in the buffalo wing sauce and ranch dressing. Stir them together until they are well combined. Adjust the buffalo sauce to your taste if you like it spicier!
4. Combine Everything:
Now, pour the buffalo-ranch mixture over the pasta and chicken mixture. Toss everything together gently to ensure all the ingredients are well coated with the sauce.
5. Add Cheddar Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the salad and gently fold it in. This adds a cheesy flavor that complements the spicy buffalo sauce perfectly!
6. Season and Chill:
Don’t forget to add salt and pepper to taste. Then, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors to meld together.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, give the salad a quick mix, and it’s ready to serve! Enjoy it cold or at room temperature, and get ready for some yummy compliments!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini pasta is great for holding the sauce, you can also use penne, fusilli, or farfalle. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose!
How Can I Make This Recipe Less Spicy?
If you’re looking for a milder salad, reduce the amount of buffalo wing sauce or opt for a mild version. You can also add more ranch dressing to tone down the heat without sacrificing creaminess.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually improve as they mingle, though the pasta might soak up some of the dressing over time.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This pasta salad is perfect for making ahead of time. It can be prepared up to a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before serving to refresh it!
