Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is a creamy, flavorful dish that combines the best of comfort food with a spicy kick. Tender shredded chicken simmered in a rich buffalo sauce is mixed with perfectly cooked macaroni and a velvety cheese sauce. Top it off with a sprinkle of green onions or crumbled blue cheese for an extra burst of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese takes the best of both worlds—spicy buffalo chicken and classic mac and cheese—and combines them into one flavorful, hearty meal. The slow cooker does most of the work, leaving you with a creamy, spicy, and indulgent dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, so cleanup is a breeze!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to stock up on:

• Chicken breast or thighs: For tender, juicy chicken that soaks up all the flavor.
• Buffalo sauce: Adds that signature spicy tang. You can use your favorite brand or make your own.
• Elbow macaroni: A classic choice for mac and cheese that holds the sauce perfectly.
• Cheese: A blend of sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella provides the perfect balance of flavor and melt.
• Cream cheese: For an extra layer of creaminess in the sauce.
• Milk and heavy cream: To help create that rich, smooth sauce.
• Garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika: These spices bring out the flavor and complement the buffalo sauce.
• Butter: To add richness and flavor to the sauce.

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

• Use chicken thighs for extra flavor: While chicken breasts are great for this recipe, using chicken thighs will give your dish even more flavor and moisture.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Since the pasta will continue to cook in the Crockpot, make sure to cook it just until it’s al dente so it doesn’t become mushy.
• Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the amount of buffalo sauce or mix it with ranch dressing to tone down the heat.
• Shred your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the creaminess of the sauce. Shredding your own cheese ensures a smooth, silky sauce.

Variations to Try

• Add vegetables: Toss in some diced bell peppers, onions, or spinach for added nutrition and color.
• Substitute different cheeses: Swap out the mozzarella or cheddar for other cheeses like gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a bit of blue cheese for extra bold flavor.
• Make it low-carb: For a low-carb version, you can use cauliflower florets in place of the macaroni to make a keto-friendly Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese.

How to Serve

This Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is rich and hearty, so it can easily serve as a main dish. However, it pairs wonderfully with:

• Side salads: A simple mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette can help balance out the richness of the mac and cheese.
• Garlic bread: For those looking for more carbs to scoop up that creamy sauce, garlic bread or a baguette makes a great side.
• Roasted vegetables: Roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or broccoli add a healthy touch and pair well with the dish.

How to Store Leftovers

Leftover Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to restore its creaminess. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to stir it frequently to avoid it becoming too thick.

Recipe FAQs

Can I make this Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this dish in advance. After cooking everything, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat in the Crockpot or stovetop, adding a little extra cream or milk to loosen it up.

Can I freeze Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese?

Yes, this dish freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, defrost it overnight in the fridge and reheat as usual.

What if I don’t have a Crockpot?

No worries! You can make this recipe on the stovetop. Simply cook the chicken in a pan, shred it, and prepare the sauce separately. Then combine everything in a large pot and cook on low heat until everything is melted and creamy.

Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food for anyone craving bold flavors and creamy textures. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just indulging in a cozy meal at home, this recipe is sure to satisfy your hunger and your taste buds. So, fire up your Crockpot, and enjoy this cheesy, spicy masterpiece that’s perfect for any occasion!

Try these other chicken recipes:

• Crockpot Greek Chicken
• Crockpot Rotisserie Chicken
• Crockpot Chicken Vegetable Soup