If you love the bold, spicy kick of buffalo chicken but want something fresh, creamy, and satisfying to enjoy any time, this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe is an absolute game changer. Imagine tender rotini pasta tossed with shredded buffalo-coated chicken, crunchy colorful veggies, and that signature tangy blue cheese dressing coming together in perfect harmony. It’s a dish that’s effortless to make yet loaded with exciting textures and flavors that keep everyone coming back for more. Whether it’s for a picnic, potluck, or a hearty lunch, this salad truly delivers all the zest and comfort you crave in every forkful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each bringing a unique twist that balances heat, creaminess, and crunch. From the tender rotini pasta that soaks up every bit of dressing to the fresh veggies adding crisp freshness, every element plays a vital role in making this salad irresistible.
- 3 cups rotini pasta: The perfect spiral shape to hold onto the spicy sauce and creamy dressing.
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast: A lean, protein-packed base that absorbs the buffalo flavor beautifully.
- 1/2 cup hot buffalo wing sauce: Adds that signature spicy tang we all adore.
- 1 cup celery, diced: Provides a refreshing crunch and balances the heat.
- 1 cup carrots, shredded: Sweetness and vibrant color that brighten the dish.
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced: Adds a juicy, mild peppery flavor and sunny hue.
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced: Brings a subtle bite to complement creamy elements.
- 1 cup blue cheese dressing: Creamy, tangy, and essential for authentic buffalo flavor.
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese: Adds bursts of rich, salty creaminess throughout.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: A fresh herbaceous note that lightens each bite.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Basics to enhance and round out all the flavors.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cook and Cool the Pasta
Start by cooking your rotini pasta according to the package directions until perfectly al dente. Once cooked, drain it and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta quickly. This step ensures the noodles stay firm and don’t turn mushy when combined with the dressing later.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken in Buffalo Sauce
In a large bowl, toss your shredded chicken with the hot buffalo wing sauce until every strand is luxuriantly coated. This infusion of spicy flavor sets the foundation for the salad’s signature bite. The chicken soaks up the sauce, making each bite deeply satisfying.
Step 3: Add the Fresh Crunchy Veggies
Now it’s time to add diced celery, shredded carrots, red bell pepper, and red onion into the bowl with the buffalo chicken. These fresh ingredients bring a refreshing crunch and vibrant colors that contrast beautifully with the spicy, creamy elements.
Step 4: Mix in the Pasta and Dressing
Next, fold in the cooled rotini pasta. Pour the creamy blue cheese dressing over the mixture and toss everything thoroughly until well combined. The dressing softens the heat just enough and adds that classic buffalo salad creaminess everyone loves.
Step 5: Fold in Blue Cheese and Parsley
Gently fold in the crumbled blue cheese and freshly chopped parsley. The blue cheese adds bursts of tangy richness, while parsley injects a fresh, herbaceous aroma that lightens the overall dish.
Step 6: Season and Chill
Finish off by seasoning the salad generously with salt and pepper, tasting and adjusting as needed. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 1-2 hours to let the bold flavors meld and the texture settle perfectly.
Step 7: Ready to Serve!
Once chilled, your Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad is ready to delight. Serve cold for maximum flavor and contrast of textures, making it a refreshing yet hearty dish suitable for any occasion.
How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe
Garnishes
An extra sprinkle of crumbled blue cheese and fresh parsley right before serving not only makes the salad look stunning but also enhances the taste with a sharp, fresh pop. For an added touch, a few celery sticks on the side echo the crunchy freshness embedded inside.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with simple sides like garlic bread, corn on the cob, or a light green salad. These accompaniments keep the meal balanced and highlight the bold, spicy profile of the buffalo chicken pasta salad without overpowering it.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or potlucks, consider serving the salad inside hollowed-out bell peppers or in individual mason jars for charming portions. Another fun idea is to stuff it inside pita pockets for a portable lunch option bursting with flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making leftovers just as delightful as the fresh batch.
Freezing
Freezing this salad is not recommended due to the creamy dressing and fresh veggies, which can separate and lose texture when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a few days.
Reheating
This salad is designed to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If needed, just let it sit out for 10-15 minutes to take the chill off before serving. Reheating in a microwave is not advised as it can alter the texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe?
Absolutely! While rotini is great for catching the dressing, penne or bowtie pasta also work wonderfully. Just make sure to cook it al dente to maintain the ideal texture in the salad.
Is there a vegetarian version of this salad?
Yes! You can replace the shredded chicken with crispy tofu bites or roasted cauliflower tossed in buffalo sauce for a tasty vegetarian alternative that keeps the bold flavor intact.
How spicy is this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe?
The heat level primarily depends on the buffalo wing sauce you choose. If you prefer milder spice, opt for a mild buffalo sauce or reduce the amount. For those who like it fiery, feel free to add extra sauce or a dash of cayenne pepper.
Can I substitute blue cheese dressing with ranch?
Definitely. Ranch dressing offers a milder, creamier profile that pairs well with buffalo sauce. It’s a good swap if blue cheese isn’t your favorite or if you want a less pungent dressing.
What’s the best way to shred cooked chicken for this recipe?
Using two forks to pull apart warm cooked chicken breast is a simple and effective method. Alternatively, you can pulse cooked chicken in a food processor for a uniform shred, taking care not to over-process into a paste.
Final Thoughts
This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe is one of those joyful dishes that feels both comforting and exciting every time you make it. Its balance of bold heat, creamy dressing, and fresh veggies means it’s perfect for sharing with family and friends or enjoying as a satisfying meal all on its own. Give it a try, and I promise it will quickly become one of your go-to favorites for gatherings or easy weeknight dinners!
Print
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes plus chilling time
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
A spicy and creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad that combines tender shredded chicken tossed in hot buffalo sauce with crisp vegetables and rotini pasta, all coated in tangy blue cheese dressing. Perfect for a flavorful, chilled dish that’s easy to prepare and great for potlucks or a quick meal.
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 3 cups rotini pasta
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast
Vegetables
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup carrots, shredded
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
Sauce and Dressing
- 1/2 cup hot buffalo wing sauce
- 1 cup blue cheese dressing
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool the pasta quickly. Set aside.
- Toss Chicken with Buffalo Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken and hot buffalo wing sauce. Toss until the chicken is well coated with the sauce for robust flavor.
- Add Vegetables: Add the diced celery, shredded carrots, red bell pepper, and red onion to the bowl with the chicken. Mix well to evenly distribute the veggies.
- Combine Pasta and Dressing: In the same bowl, add the cooled pasta. Pour the blue cheese dressing over the pasta and toss everything until well combined, ensuring a creamy texture.
- Fold in Cheese and Parsley: Gently fold in the crumbled blue cheese and chopped parsley. Mix until all ingredients are well distributed for added tang and freshness.
- Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as necessary to enhance the overall flavor.
- Chill: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together and the salad to chill thoroughly.
- Serve: Serve chilled and enjoy your Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad as a refreshing and spicy meal or side dish.
Notes
- For extra heat, add more buffalo sauce according to your preference.
- You can substitute blue cheese dressing with ranch dressing if preferred.
- Make sure to rinse pasta after cooking to stop the cooking process and keep pasta from sticking.
- This salad tastes best after chilling to let flavors blend.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
