Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese
Cook
30 mins
Prep Time
20 mins
Total Time
50 mins
Serves
8
Ingredients
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce, divided
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely diced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Fresh chives for garnish
Kitchen Tools Needed:
- Large pot for pasta
- Large skillet
- Large saucepan
- Whisk
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Colander
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Steps
- Cook the Pasta: Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook chicken until no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Toss with 1/4 cup buffalo sauce and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until smooth. Cook until thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Cheeses: Remove from heat and whisk in cream cheese until smooth. Add cheddar, mozzarella, remaining buffalo sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until cheeses are melted and sauce is smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni, buffalo chicken, cheese sauce, green onions, and celery. Mix well and transfer to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with blue cheese crumbles.
- Add Topping & Bake: Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Finish & Serve: Garnish with fresh chives and serve hot with extra buffalo sauce on the side if desired.
Macros:
Total Calories: 580
Carbs: 45g
Proteins: 32g
Fats: 28g