Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe

This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad is a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for a flavorful and satisfying lunch or a light dinner! Imagine tender pasta, shredded chicken, and crisp vegetables, all tossed in a creamy and spicy dressing with a hint of blue cheese. This recipe is ready in just 10 minutes, making it a fantastic option when you’re short on time or looking for a healthy and delicious meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy days, this recipe comes together in a flash with minimal ingredients and simple steps. It’s a great option when you need a satisfying meal in a hurry.
• Flavorful and Spicy: The combination of buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, and blue cheese creates a creamy and zesty dressing that adds a delicious kick to the salad.
• Healthy and Versatile: This salad is packed with protein and fiber from the chicken, vegetables, and pasta, making it a healthy and satisfying choice. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or cheeses.
• Great for Meal Prep: You can easily double or triple the recipe and make it ahead of time for a convenient and healthy meal prep option.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• Rotini pasta: Cooked to al dente and chilled, it adds a satisfying texture to the salad. You can substitute with your favorite pasta variety.
• Cooked chicken: Shredded and adds a lean protein source. Use leftover or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• Celery: Chopped and adds a refreshing crunch.
• Shredded carrots: Adds sweetness, color, and nutrition.
• Ranch dressing: Creates a creamy base for the dressing.
• Buffalo sauce: Adds a tangy and spicy flavor to the dressing. Use your favorite brand or variety.
• Blue cheese: Crumbled and adds a salty and pungent flavor that complements the buffalo chicken.

Note: For exact measurements, see the recipe card below!

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad

Step 1: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing, crumbled blue cheese, and buffalo sauce until well combined. Taste and adjust the spiciness by adding more buffalo sauce, if desired.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked and chilled rotini pasta, shredded chicken, chopped celery, and shredded carrots.

Step 3: Dress and Serve

Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta mixture and stir until all the ingredients are evenly coated. Divide the salad into bowls and serve immediately.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use high-quality chicken: For the best flavor and texture, use high-quality cooked chicken. Rotisserie chicken is a convenient option.
• Adjust the spice level: Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to your liking, depending on how spicy you want the salad.
• Add other vegetables: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the salad, such as diced cucumbers, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes.
• Make ahead: You can pre-cook the pasta and chop the vegetables ahead of time. Store the ingredients separately in the refrigerator and assemble the salad just before serving.

How to Serve

This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad is delicious on its own, but here are some serving suggestions:

• Sandwiches or Wraps: Use the salad as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.
• Lettuce Cups: Serve the salad in lettuce cups for a low-carb option.
• Tortilla Chips: Enjoy the salad with tortilla chips for scooping and dipping.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad is great for making ahead of time or storing leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, you can! Other pasta shapes that would work well in this recipe include penne, rotini, or farfalle. For a gluten-free option, use your favorite gluten-free pasta.

2. Can I make this salad vegetarian? Yes, you can! Omit the chicken and add chickpeas, lentils, or tofu for protein.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheese, such as shredded mozzarella, cheddar cheese, or a blend of cheeses.

4. Can I add other seasonings to the salad? Definitely! Garlic powder, onion powder, or dried herbs would be delicious additions to the salad.

This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe is a flavorful and healthy way to enjoy a quick and easy meal. With its simple preparation, versatile ingredients, and refreshing flavors, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

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