Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad

Buffalo chicken pasta salad

There’s something undeniably addictive about the tangy heat of buffalo sauce. Whether it’s wings, dip, or sandwiches, that fiery, buttery kick keeps us coming back for more. But what if I told you that you could enjoy all that bold buffalo goodness in a refreshing, creamy pasta salad? Say hello to Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad—a dish that combines the comfort of pasta with the zesty thrill of buffalo chicken.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether you’re meal-prepping, hosting a backyard BBQ, or bringing a dish to a potluck, this salad is always a hit.
✔ Quick & Easy – You can throw this together in under 30 minutes using store-bought rotisserie chicken and a few pantry staples.
✔ Customizable – Adjust the spice level, swap ingredients, or make it healthier—this recipe adapts to your needs.

Buffalo sauce has long been a game-day staple, usually enjoyed with wings and a cold drink. But turning it into a pasta salad? That’s a total game-changer. You get all the tangy heat of buffalo chicken, balanced by the creamy dressing and the crunch of fresh veggies. Plus, it’s served cold, making it a refreshing yet bold dish perfect for summer picnics or quick weekday lunches.

So, if you’re a buffalo sauce fanatic looking for a new way to enjoy your favorite flavor, keep reading. This Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad will be your new obsession!

Buffalo chicken pasta salad Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta (rotini, penne, or bowtie) – Holds the creamy sauce beautifully.
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken – Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver!
• ½ cup buffalo sauce – Choose your favorite brand; Frank’s RedHot is a classic.
• ½ cup ranch dressing – Balances out the heat with a creamy, herby finish.
• ½ cup crumbled blue cheese – Optional, but adds a bold, tangy contrast.
• ½ cup diced celery – For a refreshing crunch.
• ½ cup halved cherry tomatoes – Adds a juicy, sweet balance to the heat.
• ¼ cup chopped green onions – Enhances flavor with mild oniony freshness.

Optional Additions & Substitutions

• Want it spicier? Add a pinch of cayenne or drizzle extra buffalo sauce.
• Not a fan of blue cheese? Swap it for shredded cheddar or feta.
• Prefer a healthier version? Use Greek yogurt instead of ranch dressing.
• Gluten-free? Use gluten-free pasta—chickpea pasta works great!

Buffalo chicken pasta salad Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
• Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
• Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it for the salad.

2️⃣ Prep the Chicken & Veggies

• If using rotisserie chicken, remove the skin and shred it into bite-sized pieces.
• Dice the celery and halve the cherry tomatoes.
• Chop the green onions for garnish.

3️⃣ Make the Buffalo Dressing

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
  
  • Buffalo sauce
  • Ranch dressing
  • Crumbled blue cheese (if using)
• Taste and adjust—add more buffalo sauce for heat or extra ranch for creaminess.

4️⃣ Assemble the Salad

• In the same bowl, toss in the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, diced celery, and cherry tomatoes.
• Stir well, ensuring everything is evenly coated in the sauce.

5️⃣ Chill & Serve

• Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to let flavors meld.
• Before serving, top with chopped green onions and extra blue cheese crumbles.

🔥 Tips, Variations & Tricks

🔥 Pro Tips for the Best Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad

✔ Use cold pasta – Rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and keep it from getting mushy.
✔ Let it chill – The flavors meld better after 15-30 minutes in the fridge.
✔ Add crunch – Top with crushed tortilla chips or crispy fried onions.

🛠 Creative Variations

✔ Buffalo Chicken Bacon Ranch – Toss in crispy bacon bits for extra smoky flavor.
✔ Avocado Twist – Add diced avocado for a creamy, cooling contrast.
✔ Low-Carb Option – Swap pasta for cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

🥦 Nutritional Information

Per Serving (Approximate):

• Calories: 380
• Protein: 28g
• Carbs: 34g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 3g

For a lower-calorie option, use light ranch dressing and whole wheat pasta.