This Easy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad is a fun twist on your regular pasta dish! It’s packed with tender chicken, spicy buffalo sauce, and crunchy veggies, making every bite exciting.
If you’re a fan of bold flavors, this salad is for you! I love tossing it all together and letting the flavors mingle. It’s perfect for a picnic or just a tasty dinner. Enjoy! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This pasta shape holds the dressing well. You can swap it out for penne or fusilli if you prefer. Gluten-free pasta is also a great alternative if you’re avoiding gluten.
Chicken Breast: I used cooked chicken for convenience. Rotisserie chicken is a tasty option if you’re short on time. If you’re vegetarian, chickpeas or diced tofu can add protein!
Buffalo Wing Sauce: Adjust the amount based on your spice preference. If you want it milder, use a BBQ sauce mixed with a bit of hot sauce. You could also use a homemade version if you prefer!
Mayonnaise: For a lighter dressing, substitute half the mayo with plain Greek yogurt. This adds creaminess and a little tang without too many calories.
What’s the Best Way to Cook the Chicken?
Cooking the chicken right is key! Here’s how to get it juicy and flavorful:
- Start with even chicken breasts for consistent cooking. If they’re thick, butterfly them or pound them to an even thickness.
- Season simply with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. A little oil ensures they don’t stick.
- Cook over medium heat to avoid burning. Check for doneness by cutting into the thickest part—no pink juices should remain, and the juices should run clear.
Let the chicken rest before slicing—it helps retain moisture. This way, your pasta salad will be juicy and delicious!
Easy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 12 oz rotini pasta (or other spiral pasta)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, sliced or shredded
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced (plus extra for garnish)
For the Dressing:
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes for garnish (optional)
- Cooking oil (for chicken)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and about 30 minutes in the fridge for chilling. With just a bit of cooking and mixing, you’ll have a delicious pasta salad ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the rotini pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain it and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Set the pasta aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While the pasta cooks, season your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a little cooking oil. Heat a pan over medium heat and pan-fry the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until it’s cooked through and nicely browned. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice or shred it into bite-sized pieces.
3. Make the Buffalo Dressing:
In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), buffalo wing sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk it all together until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
4. Combine the Salad:
In a large bowl, add the cooled pasta, shredded carrots, chopped celery, and sliced green onions. Pour the buffalo dressing over the top and toss everything gently until well coated, making sure all the pasta and veggies get that delicious flavor.
5. Assemble and Garnish:
Transfer the pasta salad to a serving bowl or platter. Top it off with the sliced buffalo chicken. For a pretty finishing touch, garnish with extra green onions and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a little more heat.
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Once chilled, it’s ready to serve! Enjoy your spicy, creamy buffalo chicken pasta salad!
This tasty dish is not only easy to make but also perfectly combines creamy, tangy, and spicy flavors that pair beautifully with the chicken and crunchy veggies. It’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home! 🍽️
FAQ for Easy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken works wonderfully here. Just shred or slice it and toss it in with the salad ingredients for a quick and easy meal.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To retain the best texture, it’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve if possible!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. It adds creaminess and a nice tang, while cutting down on calories!
Can I Make This Salad Spicier?
Definitely! To amp up the spice, you can increase the amount of buffalo sauce in the dressing or add diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or even a dash of hot sauce to the salad for extra kick!
