This Easy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad is a fun twist on a classic dish! It’s made with tender pasta, spicy buffalo chicken, and crisp veggies, all tossed together with the creamy dressing.
It’s perfect for a lunch or a picnic, and honestly, who can resist that zesty flavor? I love serving it chilled—you’ll find it’s a real crowd-pleaser. Just watch out for those spicy bites! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I used rotini, which holds the dressing well. If you prefer, any short pasta like penne or farfalle works too. Gluten-free pasta is a great substitute if you’re avoiding gluten.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are my go-to. You can swap them for shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option, or even use turkey for a lighter version.
Buffalo Sauce: The amount of buffalo sauce can really change the heat level! If you’re cautious about spice, start with less and add more as you mix in your pasta. Try a mild sauce if you can’t handle the heat.
Base Sauce: I enjoy the combo of mayo and sour cream, but if you prefer a lighter option, Greek yogurt can replace both for a tangy flavor. You can also use vegan mayo for a dairy-free choice.
How Can I Ensure the Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but I have a few tips! Start by seasoning it well to infuse flavor. When it’s in the skillet, cook it on medium heat to avoid burning.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Letting it rest for a few minutes after cooking keeps it juicy, so don’t skip this step!
- Slice against the grain for tenderness in each bite.
Easy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 8 oz rotini or spiral pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 4 green onions, thinly sliced (plus extra for garnish)
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar (optional)
For Garnish:
- Crushed red pepper flakes, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15-20 minutes for preparation and cooking, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So altogether, you’ll spend about 50 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking your rotini pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, be sure to drain it and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside to cool while you prepare the chicken and other ingredients.
2. Season the Chicken:
While your pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts. Rub them with olive oil, then sprinkle with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure to coat them evenly for a delicious flavor.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear when you cut into it. After cooking, remove the chicken from the skillet, let it rest for a few minutes, and then slice it into strips.
4. Make the Dressing:
In a large bowl, combine the buffalo wing sauce, mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, and honey (if you’re using it). Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. This will be the zingy dressing for your pasta salad!
5. Combine Ingredients:
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the cooled pasta, shredded carrots, diced celery, and green onions to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss all the ingredients to ensure they’re evenly coated in that delicious buffalo dressing.
6. Fold in the Chicken:
Next, fold in most of the sliced chicken, but keep a bit aside for topping later. Give it a gentle mix to distribute the chicken throughout the salad.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Transfer your pasta salad to a serving bowl and top it with the reserved chicken slices. Garnish with extra green onions and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes if you want some extra heat!
8. Chill and Enjoy:
Cover the bowl and chill the pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps all the flavors blend together beautifully. Enjoy your creamy, tangy, and mildly spicy buffalo chicken pasta salad!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor. Simply shred or chop the chicken and mix it in when you combine the pasta and vegetables.
How Do I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you love heat, try adding more buffalo sauce to the dressing. You can also toss in some sliced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or extra crushed red pepper flakes as a garnish for an added kick!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier! Just give it a good stir before enjoying again.
Can I Make This Pasta Salad Vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the chicken and replacing it with grilled veggies, chickpeas, or a plant-based protein for a hearty alternative. Just adjust the buffalo sauce to suit your taste!
