This Buffalo chicken pasta salad is a fun twist on a classic dish! With tender pasta, spicy chunks of chicken, and a smooth, creamy dressing, it’s bursting with flavor. Perfect for picnics!
You can whip this up in no time, and trust me, it’s a total crowd-pleaser. I love serving it cold on warm days—makes for a refreshing meal that packs a punch! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This twisted pasta shape holds the dressing really well! If you want, you can swap it for any short pasta like penne or fusilli. Gluten-free pasta works too if you prefer that option.
Cooked Chicken: Shredded chicken adds protein and heartiness. You can use rotisserie chicken for quick prep or leftover grilled chicken. If you’re vegetarian, try chickpeas or tofu for a tasty alternative!
Ranch Dressing: The creamy ranch dressing balances out the heat of the buffalo sauce. You can substitute it with blue cheese dressing for a stronger flavor, or a dairy-free cream if you’re avoiding dairy.
Buffalo Wing Sauce: This is what gives the salad its kick! Adjust the amount according to your spice preference. If you want a milder salad, use sriracha or mild hot sauce instead.
Shredded Carrots and Celery: These add crunch. Feel free to use bell peppers or sweet corn instead if you want. They also give great texture!
How Do I Ensure My Pasta Salad is Refreshingly Cold?
To keep your pasta salad nice and cool, rinsing the cooked pasta with cold water is a must. This stops the cooking and cools it down quickly. Be sure to chill the salad for at least 30 minutes after mixing; it lets all the flavors mingle!
- Cook the rotini until al dente, then cool it with cold water.
- Mix all ingredients together, then cover and refrigerate.
- Toss again before serving—it’s like a flavor reunion!
Trust me, letting it sit is key for a fantastic taste. Enjoy your chilling time—pun intended!
Best Ever Easy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups rotini pasta (cooked and drained)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup sliced celery
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (adjust more or less to taste)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped green onions or chives
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. Plus, you’ll want to chill it for at least 30 minutes to let all the flavors blend together. So, total time is around 45 minutes, including prep and chill time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the rotini pasta according to the instructions on the package until it’s al dente. Drain it and give it a quick rinse under cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking process. Set the pasta aside in a large bowl.
2. Mix in the Ingredients:
In the same bowl with the cooled pasta, add in the shredded chicken, shredded carrots, sliced celery, and shredded cheddar cheese. Give it a good stir to mix everything together evenly.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a separate bowl, combine the ranch dressing and buffalo wing sauce. Mix them well until they are completely blended. This tangy and spicy dressing will tie everything together!
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the pasta and chicken mixture. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated in the creamy dressing.
5. Taste and Adjust:
Take a moment to taste the salad and see if you want to add more seasoning or buffalo sauce. Adjust according to your spice preference—you know what you like best!
6. Chill Before Serving:
Now for the hardest part—waiting! Cover the salad with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows all the flavors to mix beautifully.
7. Garnish and Enjoy:
Once chilled, give the salad a little stir before serving. If you like, sprinkle some chopped green onions or chives on top for a pop of color and freshness. Now, dig in and enjoy this creamy, spicy pasta salad that’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a quick lunch!
FAQ for Best Ever Easy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Store-bought rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut. Just shred or dice the amount you need and mix it in—you’ll save time without sacrificing flavor!
Can I Make This Pasta Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This pasta salad is perfect for making ahead. Just prepare everything and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. The flavors will meld even more, making it extra delicious.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier or Milder?
If you love heat, feel free to increase the amount of buffalo wing sauce or add some diced jalapeños! For a milder flavor, reduce the buffalo sauce and add more ranch dressing to balance it out.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To serve, give it a good stir, as the dressing may thicken. You can also add a splash of ranch if it needs refreshing!
