If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances creamy, spicy, and tangy flavors, this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s not your ordinary pasta salad—juicy shredded chicken meets zesty buffalo sauce blended with cool ranch dressing, crunchy veggies, and tender pasta for an irresistible summer meal or potluck favorite. This salad brings together simple ingredients in such a vibrant way that every forkful bursts with bold, comforting flavors that will have you reaching for seconds and thirds without guilt.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe lies in its straightforward, fresh ingredients. Each item plays a crucial role, whether adding texture, tang, or that spicy kick we all love.
- Cooked chicken, shredded: Rotisserie chicken is a perfect shortcut that delivers tender, flavorful meat without fuss.
- Elbow macaroni: Use any short pasta—it acts as the hearty base that soaks up the creamy dressing beautifully.
- Celery, diced: Adds a refreshing crunch that balances the rich dressing.
- Red onion, finely chopped: Provides a sharp bite and vibrant color contrast.
- Carrots, shredded: Bring in a subtle sweetness and extra texture.
- Ranch dressing: Creamy and cooling, it perfectly tames the heat of the buffalo sauce.
- Buffalo sauce: The star ingredient that gives this salad its signature fiery flavor; adjust to your spice preference.
- Fresh lime juice: A splash of brightness that lifts all the flavors.
- Garlic powder: Adds subtle depth without overpowering the dish.
- Onion powder: Enhances the savory notes in the dressing.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to bring everything together.
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional): Brightens and freshens the final presentation.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Main Ingredients
Start by tossing cooked pasta, shredded chicken, diced celery, finely chopped red onion, and shredded carrots in a large bowl. This mix sets the foundation by blending tender, crunchy, and fresh textures in every bite.
Step 2: Whisk the Dressing
In a smaller bowl, whisk together ranch dressing, buffalo sauce, fresh lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until the dressing is smooth and evenly blended. This is where the flavors really come alive, combining creaminess, heat, and tang.
Step 3: Mix and Coat
Pour the luscious dressing over your pasta and chicken mixture, then toss everything gently so every piece is coated in that flavorful sauce. Don’t be shy to adjust the buffalo sauce if you want it milder or spicier, this is your chance to customize the heat level.
Step 4: Chill to Meld Flavors
Cover the salad and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This rest time lets all the bold flavors marry beautifully, transforming the salad into a harmonious dish that tastes even better after cooling.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Just before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro or parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness that complements the spicy, creamy flavors perfectly.
How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley are my go-to garnishes—they add a fresh, vibrant finish that cuts through the rich buffalo sauce. For an extra touch, sprinkle crumbled blue cheese or a few extra celery sticks on top for crunch.
Side Dishes
This salad is hearty enough to be a meal itself but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, warm garlic bread, or even some classic corn on the cob. These sides add variety and balance alongside the bold and creamy pasta salad.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Serve the Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad in a hollowed-out bell pepper or atop a bed of fresh lettuce leaves for a colorful, eye-catching presentation. Mini mason jars also make great portable, individual servings for picnics or lunches on the go.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe holds up beautifully in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the pasta from drying out.
Freezing
Freezing this salad is not recommended. The creamy dressing and fresh veggies don’t fare well after thawing, so it’s best to enjoy this dish fresh or refrigerated within a few days.
Reheating
This pasta salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If you prefer it slightly warmer, let it sit out for 15-20 minutes rather than reheating, which could alter the texture of the dressing and pasta.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta for the Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni works beautifully, you can swap in rotini, penne, or shell pasta to suit your preference or what’s available in your pantry.
What can I substitute for ranch dressing?
If blue cheese isn’t your favorite, ranch is a great mild option, but feel free to try Greek yogurt mixed with some herbs for a lighter version or a vegan ranch alternative if needed.
How spicy is the Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad?
The spice level depends on how much buffalo sauce you add. You can easily adjust it to be mild or fiery—start with less and add more until it hits your perfect heat.
Can I make this salad vegetarian?
For a meatless twist, replace the chicken with crispy tofu or roasted cauliflower and keep the rest of the ingredients as is. The buffalo sauce and creamy dressing still deliver the signature bold flavor.
Is this pasta salad good for meal prep?
Yes! It makes a fantastic meal prep option because it stays flavorful and satisfying refrigerated for several days. Just give it a quick stir before eating to redistribute the dressing.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe, isn’t there? It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both simple and packed with delicious, bold flavors, ready whenever you crave that perfect blend of creamy, spicy, and crunchy. So go ahead, make a batch today—and watch how quickly it disappears at your next gathering or family dinner!
Print
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (to cook pasta)
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad is a zesty and creamy dish combining tender shredded chicken, crunchy vegetables, and elbow macaroni tossed in a flavorful ranch and buffalo sauce dressing. Perfect as a refreshing cold meal for lunch or a side at gatherings.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 8 oz elbow macaroni or any short pasta, cooked and drained
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup carrots, shredded
Dressing Ingredients
- 1 cup ranch dressing (or blue cheese dressing for more flavor)
- 1/4 cup buffalo sauce (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the cooked elbow macaroni, shredded chicken, diced celery, finely chopped red onion, and shredded carrots until well combined.
- Prepare Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing, buffalo sauce, fresh lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until the dressing is smooth and flavors are fully incorporated.
- Toss Salad with Dressing: Pour the dressing over the pasta and chicken mixture. Toss thoroughly so every ingredient is evenly coated. Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to suit your preferred spice level.
- Chill to Meld Flavors: Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend together well.
- Serve and Garnish: Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro or parsley over the salad for a fresh herbal note. Serve cold and enjoy.
Notes
- Using rotisserie chicken makes this recipe quick and convenient.
- For a spicier salad, increase the buffalo sauce amount gradually to taste.
- Blue cheese dressing can be used instead of ranch for added tanginess and richer flavor.
- Make sure to thoroughly drain cooked pasta to avoid a watery salad.
- This salad is best served chilled and can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.
