This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad is a taste of summer in a bowl! It’s packed with tender pasta, spicy buffalo chicken, fresh veggies, and a creamy dressing that ties it all together.
Honestly, the combo of spicy and creamy makes each bite a winner! I like to serve it cold for a fun picnic treat or as a game-day side. You can’t go wrong with this dish! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This pasta is great for holding onto sauce. If you don’t have rotini, feel free to use penne or fusilli as good alternatives; they also have a nice shape for salads.
Cooked Chicken: Shredded or chopped chicken breast adds protein. You can substitute with rotisserie chicken for convenience, or use a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option!
Buffalo Sauce: This is key for flavor. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference. For a milder taste, look for a mild buffalo sauce or mix with some ranch dressing.
Greek Yogurt or Mayonnaise: Greek yogurt adds creaminess with less fat than mayo. If you prefer mayonnaise, go for it! You can also mix them for a nice balance.
Celery and Carrot: Both add crunch! You can swap the celery with chopped bell peppers for another crunchy texture. Diced cucumber also works well.
How Do I Properly Cook and Cool the Pasta?
Cooking pasta just right can make a big difference! For rotini, you want it “al dente,” which means it should still have a little bite to it. Here’s how to get it right:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. It should taste a bit like the sea!
- Add the rotini and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes.
- Check for that “al dente” texture about a minute before the time is up.
- Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking process and cools it down quickly for a salad.
This method helps keep your pasta from becoming mushy in the salad! Enjoy your time while it chills!
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- ½ cup buffalo sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
- ¼ cup celery, diced
- ¼ cup carrot, grated
- ¼ cup green onions, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for extra heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll also want to chill the salad in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving, making the total time around 45 minutes. Perfect for a quick and tasty dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which means it should be firm to the bite. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down quickly. This helps prevent it from becoming mushy.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled rotini pasta, shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), diced celery, grated carrot, and chopped green onions. Make sure everything is in there for a delicious mix!
3. Season the Salad:
Now it’s time to add flavor! Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well so that the dressing coats all the ingredients evenly. This is where you can taste the mixture and decide if you want to add more buffalo sauce for extra spice!
4. Garnish and Chill:
Transfer your tasty pasta salad to a serving bowl. For a pop of freshness, garnish with extra chopped green onions and sprinkle some red pepper flakes if you like it hot. Then, cover the bowl and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This waiting time allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
After chilling, your Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad is ready to serve! Grab a spoon, dish it up, and enjoy this flavorful and satisfying salad cold. Perfect for a picnic or as a hearty side dish!
Can I Substitute Greek Yogurt for Mayonnaise?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt is a great alternative to mayonnaise and adds a tangy flavor along with added protein. If you’re looking for a lighter option, stick with Greek yogurt. If you prefer a creamier texture, feel free to mix in a little mayonnaise!
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you’re craving more heat, start by adding extra buffalo sauce to taste. For an additional kick, consider stirring in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. Just remember to add gradually, as you can always increase the spice, but you can’t take it away once it’s added!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
To keep your Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s great cold, but if it seems a bit dry after a day or two, mix in a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise to revive it before serving.
Can I Use Pre-Cooked Chicken?
Yes, pre-cooked chicken is perfect for this recipe! You can use leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand. Just shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces, and you’re ready to go!
