This Easy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad is a fun and zesty dish that packs a punch! With tender chicken, pasta, and spicy buffalo sauce, it’s perfect for a quick meal or a picnic.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: I recommend using rotini for its fun shape that holds the dressing well, but any short pasta works. You can substitute with penne, fusilli, or even a gluten-free pasta if needed.
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is super convenient and flavorful. If you’re vegetarian, try using chickpeas or canned black beans for protein!
Buffalo Wing Sauce: If you like it milder, reduce the amount or use a milder hot sauce. You can also make your own sauce with hot sauce and melted butter for a homemade touch.
Mayonnaise: Greek yogurt is a lighter substitute for mayonnaise, giving the salad creaminess with a tangy twist. You can do half mayo and half yogurt for a nice balance.
Vegetables: Shredded cabbage can replace or be added to the carrots and celery for extra crunch. Feel free to toss in whatever fresh veggies you like!
How Do I Cook Perfect Pasta for Salad?
Cooking pasta properly is key for any salad! Here are my tips to get it just right:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Salt adds flavor to the pasta.
- Cook until just al dente, which means it’s firm but not raw. It will continue to cook when mixed with the hot ingredients.
- Drain the pasta and immediately rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking process and keeps the pasta from sticking.
- Spread it out on a baking sheet to cool if you’re making a larger batch. This helps prevent clumping, ensuring every bite is delicious!
Following these tips will ensure your pasta salad is a hit every time! Enjoy your salad adventures!
How to Make Easy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
For the Chicken:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, sliced or shredded
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Dressing:
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Vegetables:
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup chopped celery
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (plus extra for garnish)
For Garnish:
- 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 25 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the pasta, plus some time mixing the dressing and assembling everything. If you chill the salad before serving, you can let it sit in the fridge for 30 minutes to enhance the flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by boiling water in a large pot and adding a pinch of salt. Cook the rotini pasta according to package directions until it’s al dente (firm but cooked). Once it’s done, drain it and give it a rinse under cold water to cool off. Set the pasta aside in a large bowl.
2. Preparing the Dressing:
In a separate large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, buffalo wing sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika (if you’re using it), salt, and pepper until well mixed. This creamy dressing is what gives the salad its delicious zing!
3. Mixing the Ingredients:
Add the cooled pasta to the dressing, followed by the shredded carrots, chopped celery, and green onions. Gently toss everything together until the pasta and veggies are completely coated in the dressing.
4. Adding the Chicken:
Season the cooked chicken with a bit of salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if desired), then grill or pan-sear it until it’s cooked through and a bit charred for flavor. Once it’s ready, slice or shred the chicken and mix it into the pasta salad.
5. Garnishing and Serving:
Top the pasta salad with extra chopped green onions and a sprinkle of red chili flakes for a pop of color and a little extra heat. You can serve it right away or cover and chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes to let the flavors combine.
Enjoy your creamy, spicy, and tangy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad! It’s a fantastic dish for lunch, dinner, or any gathering!
FAQ: Easy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini is great for its shape, you can substitute with any short pasta, such as penne, fusilli, or even farfalle. Just remember to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose.
How Can I Make This Salad Spicier?
If you crave more heat, you can add extra buffalo wing sauce or sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes. Feel free to mix in diced jalapeños for an additional kick!
Can I Prepare This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, this salad holds up well! You can assemble it a day in advance. Just add the chicken right before serving to keep it fresh. Storing it in the fridge will help the flavors meld beautifully.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed cold, so give it a quick toss before serving again!
Feel free to ask if you have any more questions! Enjoy the spicy goodness of this dish!
