This Easy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad is a fun and tasty dish! With tender pasta, spicy buffalo chicken, and crunchy veggies, it’s perfect for lunch or a potluck.
Who doesn’t love a little kick in their meal? Plus, this salad is super easy. Just mix everything together, and you’ve got a delicious dish ready to enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: I love using rotini because its shape holds onto the dressing and flavors well. You can swap it for other types like fusilli, penne, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
Buffalo Wing Sauce: This adds the perfect kick! If you prefer a milder flavor, try using barbecue sauce or a mix of hot sauce with a little honey for sweetness. Just adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
Chicken: Cooked chicken breast is standard, but you could use shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick option. For a vegetarian version, try using chickpeas or tofu marinated in buffalo sauce.
Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: These give creaminess to the salad. If you want to lighten it up, use Greek yogurt instead. It adds a nice tang and is healthier.
How Do I Cook Pasta Perfectly for Salad?
Cooking pasta for a salad is all about timing and technique. You want it to be perfectly al dente, so it doesn’t become mushy. Here’s how to do it right:
- Bring a big pot of salted water to a rolling boil to ensure flavor.
- Add the rotini and stir it a bit to prevent sticking. Cook according to the package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes.
- Check for doneness by tasting. It should be firm but tender.
- Once done, drain immediately and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it quickly.
By following these steps, you’ll ensure your pasta salad has just the right texture!
Easy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta Salad:
- 3 cups rotini pasta (or any spiral pasta)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, sliced or shredded
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (or to taste)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 4 green onions, sliced (plus extra for garnish)
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice or white vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad takes about 20 minutes to prepare. If you choose to chill it for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld, the total time will be about 50 minutes. It’s a quick and tasty dish that is perfect for any gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes). Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Set the pasta aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
If your chicken isn’t cooked yet, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and optionally some smoked paprika for a little extra flavor. Grill or pan-sear the chicken over medium heat until it’s fully cooked and golden brown, about 6-7 minutes per side. Allow the chicken to cool before slicing or shredding it into bite-sized pieces.
3. Mix the Dressing:
In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, buffalo wing sauce, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This is where the flavor magic happens!
4. Combine the Salad:
Add the cooled pasta, shredded carrots, finely chopped celery, and most of the sliced green onions to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything together until all the components are well-coated in the dressing.
5. Serve It Up:
Transfer the pasta salad to a serving bowl. Top it with the sliced grilled Buffalo chicken. For a finishing touch, garnish with the remaining sliced green onions and sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top if you like a little extra heat!
6. Chill (Optional):
If you have time, refrigerate the salad for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to combine even more. If you’re ready to dig in, you can also serve it immediately!
Enjoy your creamy, tangy, and spicy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad! It’s sure to be a hit! 🥗🔥
FAQ for Easy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken works perfectly here. Just make sure it’s shredded or sliced so it mixes well with the salad.
What Are Some Good Substitutions for Pasta?
If you want a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free pasta or even quinoa for a unique twist. Whole wheat pasta is also a great choice for added fiber and nutrition!
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
To control the heat, you can adjust the amount of buffalo wing sauce to your taste. If you want it milder, start with a smaller amount and add more as needed. You can also add a dollop of ranch or blue cheese dressing to cool it down!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply give it a quick stir. If it seems dry, you can add a bit more mayonnaise or sour cream to freshen it up!
