This Easy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad combines tender chicken, pasta, and zesty buffalo sauce for a fun twist on a classic salad. It’s filling, spicy, and perfect for gatherings!
If you’re like me, you might just devour this salad straight from the bowl! It’s quick to make and tastes great cold, making it a go-to for meal prep or picnics. Enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: I love using rotini because its twists hold the dressing well. You can substitute with penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta if needed.
Chicken: Grilled or pan-seared chicken works best. If you’re short on time, shredded rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and still delicious!
Buffalo Sauce: Basic buffalo sauce gives that signature kick, but you can adjust it to your spice level. If you prefer something milder, try a honey sriracha sauce instead!
Mayonnaise: I enjoy the creaminess, but you can use yogurt for a lighter option or oil-based dressings for a tangier taste.
Sour Cream/Greek Yogurt: Both add a nice creaminess. Greek yogurt is my personal favorite for added protein, but feel free to use either based on your preference.
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta Salad is Creamy and Flavorful?
To achieve the perfect creamy pasta salad, ensure the pasta is cooled before mixing it with the dressing. This prevents the mayo and yogurt from melting and aids in even coating without clumps.
- Cook pasta until al dente; it will firm up as it cools.
- Rinse the pasta under cold water to halt cooking and cool it down quickly.
- Mix in the sauce gently to ensure every piece is nicely coated without breaking the pasta.
With these tips, your Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad will not just taste great but also have a wonderful texture!
Easy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or your preferred pasta shape)
- 2 cooked chicken breasts (grilled or pan-seared), sliced
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 2 green onions, sliced (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Crushed red pepper flakes, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. So, in about 45 minutes total, you’ll have a deliciously creamy and spicy dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a pot of water. Add the rotini pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside to cool.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything until it’s smooth and creamy. Adjust the buffalo sauce based on how spicy you like it!
3. Add Veggies:
Now, toss in the shredded carrots, chopped celery, and sliced green onions into the dressing. Stir well to combine all the ingredients together.
4. Combine with Pasta:
Take your cooled pasta and gently fold it into the dressing mixture, making sure every piece is coated nicely without breaking the pasta.
5. Incorporate the Chicken:
Slice the cooked chicken breasts and either lay them on top of the pasta salad or gently mix them in. This way, you can have a beautiful presentation if you want!
6. Garnish and Chill:
For a pop of color, garnish your salad with extra sliced green onions and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes if you want more heat. Now, cover the salad and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let all the flavors come together nicely.
7. Serve It Up:
Your Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad is now ready! Serve it cold or at room temperature, and enjoy the creamy, spicy goodness. Perfect for a picnic or potluck—you won’t be disappointed!
FAQ for Easy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover grilled or rotisserie chicken works perfectly here. Just shred or slice it before adding it to the salad for a quick and delicious meal.
How Can I Make This Pasta Salad Less Spicy?
If you prefer a milder version, simply reduce the amount of buffalo sauce you use. You can also substitute it with a milder hot sauce or even a ranch dressing for a creamier flavor without the heat!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you want a lighter option, try using Greek yogurt or a dairy-free yogurt. You can also blend some ripe avocado for a creamy texture without the mayo flavor!
How Do 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 again, as the dressing may thicken or separate slightly after chilling.
