This Easy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad is a zesty delight! It features tender pasta, spicy buffalo chicken, crunchy veggies, and creamy dressing that ties it all together.
You can enjoy this colorful salad as a side or a main dish. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken! Trust me, you’ll be going back for seconds. 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: Rotini’s curls hold onto the dressing well, but any pasta shape like penne, fusilli, or elbow macaroni will work. Just cook it until al dente for the best texture!
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is super convenient and adds great flavor. For a vegetarian option, try substituting it with chickpeas or a plant-based chicken mock meat.
Buffalo Wing Sauce: Frank’s RedHot is a classic choice! If you prefer something milder, you can use a mild hot sauce or even BBQ sauce for a different flavor.
Ranch Dressing: Homemade ranch dressing is delicious, but store-bought works just fine! For a healthier twist, you can use Greek yogurt mixed with a bit of water if you want a lighter dressing.
Cheddar Cheese: While optional, adding cheese gives a nice creamy texture. If you want to reduce dairy, consider using a dairy-free cheese or leave it out entirely!
How Do You Cool Pasta Quickly for a Salad?
Cooling your pasta is key for a great salad! Rinsing it under cold water stops the cooking process and prevents clumping. Here’s how:
- After draining your pasta, run cold water over it in a colander.
- Stir the pasta gently with your hand to ensure all the pieces cool.
- Drain it well to avoid a watery salad, and it’s ready to mix with other ingredients!
Following this step helps keep the salad fresh and the flavors bright. Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 8 ounces rotini pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful buffalo chicken pasta salad takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare. Plus, you’ll want to chill it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving, giving you a total time of about 40-45 minutes. Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
First, cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to cool it down quickly. Drain well and set aside.
2. Mixing the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the shredded chicken, diced red bell pepper, chopped celery, and sliced green onions. Mix these together gently to combine the ingredients.
3. Making the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the buffalo wing sauce and ranch dressing until well blended. This will give your salad a creamy and spicy kick that everyone will love!
4. Combining Everything:
Pour the buffalo-ranch dressing over the pasta mixture. Toss everything together gently until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated. If you’re using the cheddar cheese, sprinkle it in now and toss lightly to incorporate.
5. Seasoning to Taste:
Add salt and pepper to taste, and adjust based on your preference. This step is essential as it enhances the flavors of the dish!
6. Chilling the Salad:
Cover the salad and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time helps all the flavors meld together beautifully.
7. Serving:
When you’re ready to serve, give the salad a quick toss. If you love a little extra heat, drizzle additional buffalo sauce on top. Enjoy your delicious and spicy buffalo chicken pasta salad!
This dish is perfect for warm weather gatherings, potlucks, or as a quick weeknight meal. Bon appétit!
FAQ for Easy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds fantastic flavor. Just shred or dice the amount you need for the salad, and you’re good to go!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare this salad up to a day in advance. Just be sure to keep it covered in the refrigerator. It actually tastes even better as the flavors meld together!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The salad may become a bit saucy, so give it a good stir before serving again.
Can I Use a Different Dressing?
Definitely! If buffalo sauce and ranch isn’t your thing, you can substitute with a vinaigrette or yogurt-based dressing. Just keep in mind that it will change the flavor profile of the salad.
