This Easy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad is a fun mix of spicy buffalo chicken, creamy dressing, and crunchy veggies. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a picnic!
You won’t believe how tasty this salad is! Plus, it takes just a few minutes to whip up. I love serving it chilled on warm days—so refreshing!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: I love using rotini for its fun shape and ability to hold dressing well. If you don’t have rotini, any spiral pasta or even penne works just fine.
Buffalo Wing Sauce: The star of the show! Adjust the amount based on your heat preference. If you’re not a fan of spicy, try a milder hot sauce or even BBQ sauce for a different flavor.
Mayonnaise: This adds creaminess to the salad. If you want a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a great substitute. It’s tangy and offers some extra protein!
Shredded Carrots & Celery: These add crunch and color. If you’re short on time, pre-shredded carrots work well, and you can swap celery for bell peppers for a sweeter taste.
Green Onions: They add a nice freshness. If you don’t have them, red or yellow onion can be used, but be sure to chop them really finely to avoid overwhelming flavors.
How Do I Cook Pasta Perfectly for Salad?
Cooking pasta to the right texture is crucial for pasta salad. You want it al dente, which means it should still have a slight bite to it. Here’s how:
- Boil plenty of water, and add a generous amount of salt (this flavors the pasta).
- Add your rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- Check the pasta a minute or two early—you’re looking for it to be tender but not mushy.
- Once cooked, drain and immediately rinse under cold water. This stops the cooking process and helps cool it quickly.
This technique not only prevents mushy pasta but also makes it perfect for mixing with your delicious buffalo chicken dressing later!
Easy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or any spiral pasta)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, sliced or shredded
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (adjust to spice preference)
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)
- Extra chopped green onions (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. That’s just enough time for the flavors to come together for a tasty dish you won’t forget!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of water. Once it’s bubbling, add the rotini pasta and a pinch of salt. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Set it aside.
2. Prepare the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), buffalo wing sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until the dressing is smooth and creamy, adjusting the buffalo sauce for your desired spice level.
3. Combine Ingredients:
Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the dressing. Toss well to coat every piece of pasta. Then, gently fold in the shredded carrots, chopped celery, and sliced green onions until evenly distributed.
4. Add the Chicken:
Toss in the cooked chicken breast pieces, mixing until everything is well combined and coated with the buffalo dressing. It’s okay if you break up some of the chicken in the process!
5. Serve and Chill:
Transfer the pasta salad to a serving bowl. For a finishing touch, garnish with more chopped green onions and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like it extra spicy. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving—this helps the flavors meld beautifully!
Enjoy this creamy, spicy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad as a delicious lunch or side dish that’s packed with flavor and easy to prepare!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred or chop the chicken and mix it in as directed. It adds wonderful flavor without any extra cooking!
What Can I Substitute for Sour Cream?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute for sour cream. It adds creaminess and a tangy flavor. You can also use low-fat mayo if you prefer something lighter.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Give it a gentle stir before serving to redistribute the dressing, as it may thicken a bit when chilled.
Can I Make This Salad Spicier?
Definitely! You can increase the amount of buffalo wing sauce to your liking or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick. Just be sure to taste as you go so it doesn’t get too spicy!
