Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese is a delightful twist on traditional comfort food, marrying the rich flavors of buffalo sauce with creamy, cheesy macaroni. This dish takes your classic mac and cheese to new heights, elevating it into a hearty meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, hosting a game day party, or just looking for an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe is bound to satisfy and impress.
Why We Love This Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
What makes this dish so special? First, it combines two beloved dishes—buffalo chicken and macaroni and cheese—into one scrumptious meal. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, allowing you to throw everything into the pot and come back a few hours later to a delicious, creamy dinner. The ranch seasoning adds a unique depth of flavor, while the buffalo sauce introduces a spicy kick that will tantalize your taste buds. Plus, with high-protein pasta and a variety of cheeses, you get a satisfying dish that’s not only tasty but also packed with nutrition. This recipe is perfect for busy individuals who still want to enjoy a homemade meal.
Ingredients about Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese
Getting started with your Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese is simple. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delectable dish:
List of ingredients with measurements
- 2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breasts
- 1 packet ranch seasoning
- 3 cups chicken bone broth
- 1 cup buffalo sauce, plus more for serving
- 14.5 ounces high-protein pasta, such as Barilla® protein rotini
- 4 ounces cream cheese
- 2/3 cup cottage cheese
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 3 green onions, sliced
These ingredients come together to create a comforting dish that everyone around the table will love.
How to Make Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese Directions
Making this dish is straightforward, and best of all, it’s low-effort. Follow these easy steps to whip up your Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese:
- Begin by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Ensure they are laid out evenly, so they cook uniformly.
- Next, sprinkle the ranch seasoning generously over the chicken. The seasoning will infuse the meat with delightful flavors as it cooks.
- Pour in the chicken bone broth, allowing it to cover the chicken adequately. Then, drizzle the buffalo sauce over the top, ensuring that each piece of chicken is well-coated.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on High for about 2 1/2 hours, or if you prefer a longer cook time, you can set it on Low for 4 to 5 hours. The longer cooking time allows for the chicken to become tender and flavor-packed.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and chop it into bite-sized pieces. This will make it easier to incorporate into the pasta later on.
- Return the chopped chicken back to the slow cooker. To it, stir in the uncooked high-protein pasta, cream cheese, cottage cheese, and 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything well so that the pasta is coated in the creamy, cheesy goodness.
- Cover the slow cooker and continue cooking on High until the pasta is tender, which should take about 30 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the sides.
- After cooking, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. Let it stand for about 10 minutes to allow the cheese to melt slightly and create a delicious, gooey topping.
- Before serving, sprinkle the dish with sliced green onions for a fresh, vibrant touch. You can also drizzle additional buffalo sauce on top for those who like an extra kick.
How to Serve Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese
When it comes to serving, simplicity is your best friend. Spoon the creamy, cheesy macaroni onto individual plates or into bowls. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or fresh veggies to balance out the flavors. If you want to add a little crunch, consider offering crispy tortilla chips on the side. For an extra boost of flavor, have some buffalo sauce available for drizzling on top, allowing your guests to customize their spice level. If you’re serving this at a gathering, consider setting up a buffet-style service where everyone can pile their plates high with this creamy delight.
Expert Tips: Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese
To ensure your Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese comes out perfectly every time, here are some expert tips to consider:
- Choose the right pasta: Opt for high-protein pasta to boost the nutritional content and provide a heartier texture. Pasta types like rotini or penne work well in this recipe.
- Don’t skip the ranch seasoning: This is essential for adding that unique flavor profile. Feel free to experiment with different ranch brands or even homemade ranch seasoning for a personalized touch.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of buffalo sauce or opt for a milder version. You can always serve extra buffalo sauce on the side for those who enjoy a spicier kick.
- Stir occasionally: When cooking the pasta, stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Let it rest: Allowing the dish to stand for a few minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together and makes serving easier.
How to Store Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese
If you have leftovers (which is unlikely because this meal is so delicious!), store your Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese in an airtight container. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore the creaminess.
Variation of Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese
While the classic version is a crowd-pleaser, there are numerous ways to customize your Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese. Here are a few variations to consider:
- Add veggies: Incorporate some vibrant veggies like broccoli or bell peppers into the mix. You can add them halfway through the cooking process so they maintain some crunch.
- Spicy cheese blend: Mix in pepper jack cheese with your cheddar for an extra layer of heat. This not only intensifies the flavor but also creates a beautifully melty texture.
- Different proteins: For a twist, substitute the chicken with other proteins such as shredded turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option. This maintains the protein content while keeping the flavors exciting.
- Herb additions: Fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro can add a refreshing touch. Stir a handful in just before serving to brighten up the flavors.
- Make it a casserole: If you prefer, transfer the final mixture into a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake until golden brown for a crispy finish.
FAQ
What is the best pasta to use for Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese?
For this recipe, using high-protein pasta like Barilla® protein rotini is recommended. It holds up well during the slow cooking process and adds nutritional value.
Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just extend the cooking time by an hour to ensure the chicken cooks through thoroughly.
How can I make this dish less spicy?
To decrease the spice level, you can reduce the amount of buffalo sauce you use or opt for a mild version. It’s also an option to serve additional buffalo sauce on the side for those who prefer more heat.
How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy in the slow cooker?
Make sure to stir the pasta occasionally while it cooks. This helps it cook evenly and prevents it from sticking together or becoming overcooked.
Can I make this meal ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken mixture the night before and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to cook, place it in the slow cooker and follow the directions as normal. This makes it an excellent option for busy days.
Enjoy the creamy, spicy goodness of this Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese. It’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation!
Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breasts Ensure the chicken is evenly placed in the slow cooker.
- 1 packet ranch seasoning Essential for flavor. Experiment with different brands if desired.
- 3 cups chicken bone broth Covers the chicken adequately.
- 1 cup buffalo sauce Add more for serving based on spice preference.
- 14.5 ounces high-protein pasta (like Barilla® protein rotini) Boosts nutritional content.
- 4 ounces cream cheese Creates creaminess.
- 2/3 cup cottage cheese
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Divided into two portions.
- 3 pieces green onions, sliced For garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker, ensuring they are laid out evenly.
- Sprinkle the ranch seasoning generously over the chicken.
- Pour in the chicken bone broth to cover the chicken, then drizzle the buffalo sauce over the top.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on High for about 2 1/2 hours, or on Low for 4 to 5 hours.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken and chop it into bite-sized pieces.
- Return the chopped chicken to the slow cooker, and stir in the uncooked pasta, cream cheese, cottage cheese, and 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Continue cooking on High until the pasta is tender, about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top, let it stand for about 10 minutes to allow the cheese to melt slightly.
- Before serving, garnish with sliced green onions and drizzle additional buffalo sauce if desired.
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