If you love the bold flavors of buffalo chicken and the satisfying comfort of pasta salad, then this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad is the perfect dish for you! Combining tender chicken, al dente pasta, crunchy vegetables, and a creamy, tangy buffalo sauce dressing, this salad is packed with flavor and texture. It’s ideal for picnics, potlucks, game day gatherings, or even as a quick and delicious weeknight meal.
In this article, we’ll cover:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Tips for the Best Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
- Serving Suggestions & Variations
- How to Store & Meal Prep
Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
- Bold & Spicy Flavor – The combination of buffalo sauce and creamy dressing gives this pasta salad a perfect balance of heat and coolness.
- Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this dish comes together quickly.
- Great for Crowds – Perfect for parties, BBQs, or meal prep—it’s always a hit!
- Versatile – Easily customizable with different proteins, veggies, or spice levels.
- Meal Prep Friendly – Stays fresh for days, making it great for lunches.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
For the Pasta Salad:
- Pasta – Rotini, penne, or bowtie pasta work best because they hold the sauce well.
- Chicken – Cooked and shredded (rotisserie chicken saves time!).
- Celery & Red Onion – Adds crunch and freshness.
- Bell Peppers – For color and sweetness (optional).
- Blue Cheese or Feta Crumbles – Adds a tangy, creamy element.
For the Dressing:
- Buffalo Sauce – Use store-bought (like Frank’s RedHot) or homemade.
- Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing – Balances the heat.
- Greek Yogurt or Mayo – Makes it extra creamy.
- Lemon Juice & Spices – Enhances flavor.
Substitutions:
- Gluten-Free? Use gluten-free pasta.
- Vegetarian? Swap chicken for chickpeas or tofu.
- Less Spicy? Reduce buffalo sauce or add more ranch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
2. Prepare the Chicken
- Shred cooked chicken (rotisserie, grilled, or boiled). Toss with buffalo sauce.
3. Chop the Veggies
- Dice celery, red onion, and bell peppers for crunch.
4. Make the Dressing
- Whisk together:
- ½ cup buffalo sauce
- ½ cup ranch or blue cheese dressing
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt or mayo
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
5. Combine Everything
- In a large bowl, mix pasta, buffalo chicken, veggies, and dressing.
- Fold in cheese crumbles.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
✔ Don’t Overcook Pasta – Al dente holds up better in salads.
✔ Let It Chill – Flavors meld better when refrigerated.
✔ Adjust Spice Level – Add more buffalo sauce if you like it hot!
✔ Add Fresh Herbs – Chopped cilantro or parsley brightens it up.
Serving Suggestions & Variations
Serving Ideas:
- As a Main Dish – Great for lunch or dinner.
- Party Side Dish – Perfect for game day or potlucks.
- In Wraps or Lettuce Cups – For a low-carb option.
Variations:
How to Store & Meal Prep
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
- Freezer: Not recommended (dressing may separate).
- Meal Prep: Divide into containers for easy grab-and-go lunches.
Final Thoughts
This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad is a crowd-pleaser with its spicy, creamy, and crunchy elements. Whether you’re serving it at a party or meal prepping for the week, it’s a guaranteed hit! Try it out and customize it to your taste—you won’t be disappointed.
Ready to make it? Grab your ingredients and get cooking!