This fun Buffalo chicken pasta salad is packed with tasty flavors and a bit of spice! You’ll find juicy chicken, bright veggies, and a creamy dressing that brings it all together.
If you’re anything like me, you might end up stealing bites while mixing it! It’s great for lunch or a party, and it’s so easy to whip up. Just toss everything in a bowl and enjoy! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This twisty pasta holds the dressing and flavors nicely. If you don’t have rotini, penne or fusilli are great options too. Gluten-free pasta can also work if needed!
Cooked Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a lifesaver for this dish. If you have leftover grilled chicken or even a can of shredded chicken, use that instead. Just be sure to season it well!
Buffalo Wing Sauce: Adjust the heat to your taste! If you’re not a fan of too much spice, try using a mild buffalo sauce or even BBQ sauce for a different flavor. You can also make your own using hot sauce and melted butter.
Dressing: Ranch and blue cheese dressing complement the dish perfectly. If you prefer a lighter option, Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute. It gives a creamy texture with less fat.
How Do I Keep My Pasta Salad Fresh?
To ensure your pasta salad stays fresh, follow these tips:
- Chill the pasta salad before serving. This helps meld the flavors and keeps it cool.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It can last 3-4 days, but it’s best enjoyed within the first couple of days for optimal flavor and texture.
- If you’re making it ahead of time, consider keeping the dressing and blue cheese crumbles separate until just before serving. This prevents the pasta from soaking up too much dressing and keeps everything crisp!
Easy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces rotini pasta (about 2 cups)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/3 cup buffalo wing sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing
- 1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles
- 2 green onions, sliced thin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Time Needed:
This delicious Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad takes about 15 minutes of prep time and at least 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In total, you’re looking at around 45 minutes before you can dig in!
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once it’s done, drain it well and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Set the pasta aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Mix the Veggies and Chicken:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced celery, and shredded carrots. This trio adds crunch and sweetness to your salad!
3. Combine the Pasta:
Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the chicken and veggies. This will bring everything together in a delicious medley.
4. Prepare the Dressing:
In a separate smaller bowl, mix the buffalo wing sauce and ranch or blue cheese dressing until they’re well blended. You can adjust the amount of buffalo sauce based on how spicy you like it.
5. Toss It All Together:
Pour the dressing mixture over the pasta and chicken mixture. Gently toss everything together to make sure the pasta is fully coated in the tasty sauce.
6. Add Some Flavor:
Fold in the sliced green onions and blue cheese crumbles, keeping a little aside if you want to sprinkle on top as a garnish later. Season your salad with a little salt and pepper to taste.
7. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and chill the pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This time helps the flavors meld together for a more delicious salad!
8. Garnish and Serve:
When you’re ready to serve, give the pasta salad a good stir once more. Then, garnish with any remaining blue cheese crumbles and green onions on top for a delightful finish!
Enjoy this creamy, tangy, and spicy pasta salad, which is perfect for lunch, potlucks, or picnics! It’s sure to be a hit with family and friends!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini is great for holding the dressing, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you prefer, like penne or fusilli. Just make sure to cook it al dente for the best texture.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you love heat, try adding more buffalo wing sauce or even some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the salad. Adjust the spicy level to your taste!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! This pasta salad is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare it a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. Just give it a good stir before serving, and it will taste even better as the flavors meld.
What to Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should be good for about 3-4 days. For best flavor, consume it within the first couple of days!
