This Easy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad is a fun mix of colorful pasta, spicy buffalo chicken, and crunchy veggies. It’s perfect as a side dish or a filling lunch!
Honestly, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken and still have a yummy meal. I love adding extra ranch dressing for that creamy touch! Who could say no to pasta and a kick of spice? 🥵
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This spiral shape is perfect for holding onto the dressing and flavors. You can swap in penne, farfalle, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. Gluten-free pasta works too!
Cooked Chicken Breast: Leftover grilled or rotisserie chicken is great here. If you need a meatless meal, shredded tofu or chickpeas can substitute nicely while providing protein.
Buffalo Wing Sauce: It’s all about that spice! If buffalo sauce is too strong, consider a milder hot sauce or a BBQ sauce with a kick. You can also make your own blend using cayenne pepper and vinegar.
Ranch Dressing: Store-bought is convenient, but you can create your own by mixing yogurt, mayonnaise, and herbs. This lets you control the flavor and adjust for health needs—like low-fat or dairy-free versions.
How Do I Cook Pasta Perfectly?
Cooking pasta can seem tricky, but it’s simple with a few tips! Start with a big pot so the pasta has room to move. Salt the water generously—it should taste like the sea. This will help flavor your pasta as it cooks.
- Bring the salted water to a rolling boil before adding the pasta.
- Stir the pasta right after you add it to prevent sticking, then don’t stir too often for the best texture.
- Check for doneness a minute before the package indicates—pasta should be al dente (firm to the bite). Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Easy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or similar spiral pasta)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, sliced or shredded
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking chicken)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- Red pepper flakes for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful pasta salad will take approximately 30 minutes for preparation and an additional 30 minutes for chilling. So, in about an hour, you’ll have a creamy, spicy dish ready to enjoy with friends and family!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (tender but still firm to the bite). Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add your cooked chicken slices and season them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Cook until the chicken is heated through and slightly browned, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes.
3. Mix with Buffalo Sauce
Once your chicken is ready, transfer it to a bowl and drizzle in the buffalo wing sauce. Toss to coat the chicken evenly in the sauce. If you like it spicier, feel free to add more sauce—it’s all about your taste!
4. Combine Salad Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, shredded carrots, chopped celery, and sliced green onions. This gives you a colorful base for your salad!
5. Dress the Salad
Pour the ranch dressing over the pasta mixture and stir well to combine, making sure everything is coated nicely. This ranch dressing brings a creamy contrast to the spicy buffalo flavor!
6. Add the Chicken
Gently fold in half of the buffalo chicken mixture into the pasta salad. You want those flavors to mix well without breaking up the pasta too much.
7. Serve & Garnish
Transfer the pasta salad to a serving bowl or platter, then place the remaining buffalo chicken on top. For a finishing touch, garnish with extra green onions and sprinkle some red pepper flakes for a bit of extra heat if desired.
8. Chill and Enjoy!
For the best flavor, chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows all those delicious flavors to meld together!
Enjoy your creamy, spicy, and colorful Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad! It’s perfect for gatherings or a quick delicious lunch!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Leftover Chicken in This Recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for using up leftover rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken, or even barbecue chicken. Just ensure it’s shredded or sliced thin for even mixing.
Is There a Way to Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! To make it vegetarian, you can substitute the chicken with shredded tofu, chickpeas, or even a robust veggie like grilled zucchini. You can also use a plant-based buffalo sauce and ranch dressing for a fully meat-free option!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving, as the ingredients may settle. You can also add a splash of ranch dressing to freshen it up!
Can I Make This Pasta Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This pasta salad actually tastes better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. Just keep it chilled until you’re ready to serve, and it will be ready for your lunch or party!
