Buffalo Chicken Mac & Cheese Bake
This Buffalo Chicken Mac & Cheese Bake is a simple yet flavorful twist on the classic comfort food that will satisfy both your spicy cravings and your desire for cheesy goodness. Combining the rich flavors of a creamy cheese sauce with tender pieces of chicken bathed in zesty buffalo sauce, this dish is not only budget-friendly but also quick to prepare. Perfect for students or anyone looking for a hearty meal without the fuss, it's a brilliant upgrade from the typical boxed mac and cheese. Serve it at gatherings, family dinners, or just as a weekday treat, and watch everyone go back for seconds!
N/A
Servings
415
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Macaroni and cheese mix
2 (7 1/4 ounce) boxes (Prepare according to box instructions.)
Canned chicken
2 (12 1/2 ounce) cans (Drain and shred into smaller pieces.)
Frank's Red Hot Sauce
1/2 cup (Adjust to taste, mix with chicken.)
Shredded cheese
1 cup (Cheddar preferred, shred before use.)
Bleu cheese salad dressing
1/3 cup (Mix with chicken and hot sauce.)
Chili powder
1/2 teaspoon (Optional, sprinkle on top.)
Breadcrumbs
1/2 cup (Optional, for topping.)
Grated parmesan cheese
1/3 cup (Optional, for topping.)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2
Prepare the macaroni and cheese according to the instructions on the box, omitting any additional ingredients since they vary by brand.
3
In a separate bowl, combine the drained chicken with the hot sauce and bleu cheese dressing, mixing well. Shred larger pieces of chicken to ensure even distribution.
4
In a greased 9x12 inch baking dish, pour half of the prepared mac and cheese as the base layer.
5
Spread the buffalo chicken mixture evenly over the mac and cheese layer.
6
Top with the remaining mac and cheese, and then sprinkle in half of the shredded cheese, folding it in gently to create a slightly marbled effect.
7
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top to achieve a nice, gooey finish.
8
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until bubbly.
9
Optional: If using, sprinkle breadcrumbs, chili powder, and grated parmesan cheese over the top. Return to the oven for an additional 15-20 minutes until everything is heated thoroughly and breadcrumbs are golden.
10
Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Pair with a fresh salad to balance the flavors and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
20g
Fat
36g
Carbs
16g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Buffalo Chicken Mac & Cheese Bake?
It is a simple yet flavorful twist on classic comfort food that combines creamy cheese sauce with chicken in zesty buffalo sauce.
How many boxes of macaroni and cheese mix are needed?
The recipe requires two 7 1/4 ounce boxes of macaroni and cheese mix.
What type of chicken is used for this recipe?
The recipe calls for two 12 1/2 ounce cans of canned chicken, drained and shredded.
Can I use fresh chicken instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh cooked chicken shredded into smaller pieces if you prefer.
What oven temperature is required?
You should preheat your oven to 375°F or 190°C.
How much hot sauce should I use?
The recipe suggests 1/2 cup of Frank's Red Hot Sauce, which can be adjusted to your personal taste.
What role does bleu cheese dressing play in the recipe?
It is mixed with the chicken and hot sauce to add creaminess and a traditional buffalo flavor profile.
How much shredded cheese is needed for the topping?
You will need 1 cup of shredded cheese, with cheddar being the preferred variety.
What is the initial baking time?
The casserole should bake for about 20 minutes until it is bubbly.
What size baking dish is recommended?
A greased 9x12 inch baking dish is ideal for this recipe.
How do I layer the Buffalo Chicken Mac & Cheese?
Pour half the prepared mac and cheese as a base, spread the buffalo chicken mixture, top with the rest of the mac, then add shredded cheese.
Is this recipe considered budget-friendly?
Yes, it is specifically noted as a budget-friendly option perfect for students or those seeking hearty meals without high costs.
What are the optional toppings for this dish?
Breadcrumbs, chili powder, and grated parmesan cheese are optional toppings for extra texture and flavor.
How do I achieve a golden breadcrumb topping?
After the initial bake, sprinkle toppings and return to the oven for an additional 15-20 minutes until golden.
What should I serve with this meal?
It is recommended to pair the dish with a fresh salad to balance the rich and spicy flavors.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 415 calories.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains about 20 grams of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in this dish?
There are 36 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
What is the protein content?
This recipe provides 16 grams of protein per serving.
How many ingredients are in the total recipe?
There are 8 ingredients listed, including the optional toppings.
How do I prepare the mac and cheese mix?
Prepare it according to the instructions on the box, omitting additional ingredients since they vary by brand.
How should I prepare the canned chicken?
Drain the liquid and shred the chicken into smaller pieces to ensure even distribution throughout the dish.
Can I adjust the spiciness?
Yes, the amount of Frank's Red Hot Sauce can be adjusted to your preference.
Is this recipe easy to make?
Yes, it is described as a quick-to-prepare upgrade from typical boxed mac and cheese.
What kind of shredded cheese is best?
While cheddar is preferred, you can use any variety you like for the gooey finish.
How much bleu cheese dressing is used?
Use 1/3 cup of bleu cheese salad dressing mixed into the chicken.
What is the total baking time if I use breadcrumbs?
The total time would be about 35-40 minutes including the initial 20-minute bake.
Should I let the casserole cool before serving?
Yes, let it cool for a few minutes to allow the cheese to set and flavors to meld.
Can I skip the breadcrumbs?
Yes, breadcrumbs are an optional topping for those who want a crunchy finish.
What does marbling the cheese mean?
It means folding in half of the shredded cheese gently into the top layer to create a swirled effect.