This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad is a fun twist on a classic! With tender pasta, spicy buffalo chicken, and crunchy veggies, it’s a delicious mix of flavors and textures.
I love how quick and easy it is to whip up for a picnic or a game day! Plus, it’s always a hit with friends—so I make extra to share (or not!). 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This shaped pasta is great for holding onto the dressing. If you prefer, you can swap it for penne or bow tie pasta, which also works well. Gluten-free pasta is another good option if needed. I find shells add a fun twist, too!
Cooked Chicken: Shredded or diced rotisserie chicken is my go-to for convenience. You could also use leftover chicken breast or even canned chicken in a pinch. If you’re looking for a meatless option, chickpeas or tofu can work well too!
Buffalo Wing Sauce: Adjust the heat to your liking! You can use store-bought buffalo sauce or make your own with hot sauce and melted butter. If you want a milder version, consider using a BBQ sauce mixed with a bit of hot sauce.
Ranch Dressing: I love ranch for its flavor balance, but you can use blue cheese dressing for a sharper taste. Make your own dressing if you prefer—a mix of yogurt and herbs can be delicious too.
How Do You Make Sure the Pasta Salad Is Creamy and Well-Mixed?
Getting the perfect creamy texture is all about how you mix the ingredients. Start with a smooth dressing base; this helps everything stick together. Here’s how to make it great:
- Let the cooked pasta cool before mixing; warm pasta can make the dressing runny.
- Combine the dressing well before adding in the chicken and veggies. This ensures everything is coated evenly.
- Don’t be too rough when mixing—gentle folding helps keep the pasta intact and avoids mushiness.
- Chilling the salad helps the flavors combine and allows it to thicken slightly, enhancing overall creaminess.
Best Ever Easy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups rotini pasta (cooked and drained)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 1 hour to chill in the refrigerator. It’s a simple process that allows all the flavors to come together beautifully!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Once done, drain it and let it cool completely. This will help keep the pasta from getting mushy in the salad.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ranch dressing, and buffalo wing sauce. Use a whisk to mix until the dressing is smooth and all ingredients are well blended together.
3. Add the Ingredients:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add the shredded chicken, diced celery, shredded carrots, and the shredded cheddar cheese to the bowl. Stir everything together gently until the chicken and veggies are well coated in the dressing.
4. Combine with Pasta:
Add the cooled pasta to the mixture and toss everything gently. Make sure the pasta is well coated in the buffalo ranch sauce, ensuring that every bite will be packed with flavor!
5. Season and Chill:
Season your salad with salt and pepper to taste. Once seasoned, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld perfectly.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
After chilling, give the salad a final gentle toss, then serve it cold. Enjoy this creamy, slightly spicy pasta salad at your next BBQ, potluck, or just for a fun meal at home!
This recipe yields a delightful balance of flavors—spicy buffalo chicken, cool ranch dressing, and crunchy veggies, making it perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use Different Pasta Types?
Absolutely! While rotini is great for this recipe, you can use penne, farfalle (bowties), or even gluten-free pasta. Just make sure to cook it al dente for the best texture!
What If I Don’t Like Spicy Food?
No worries! You can reduce the buffalo wing sauce to just a couple of tablespoons for a milder flavor or replace it entirely with BBQ sauce for a sweeter option. Adjust to your taste!
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Fridge?
This pasta salad will stay fresh for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick stir before serving again to refresh the flavors!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Definitely! This salad is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare it a day in advance; just make sure to keep it chilled until serving. The flavors will actually get better as they meld together!
