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buffalo chicken mac and cheese

Buffalo Chicken Mac & Cheese

This buffalo chicken mac and cheese is bold and creamy, with tangy heat from hot sauce and ranch seasoning balanced by melty American and cheddar cheeses. Crispy chicken tenders add crunch and bite to the rich, spicy pasta.
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients

  • 12 oz precooked frozen breaded chicken tenders
  • 6 tbsp Frank's Red Hot
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter melted
  • 1 tbsp ranch seasoning mix divided
  • cups water
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 1.5 cups American cheese chopped
  • 1.5 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • 2 whole scallions sliced thin

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 425°F and position a rack 6 inches from the broiler.
  • Place the chicken on a rimmed baking sheet and bake until heated through, about 20 minutes.
  • In a bowl, mix 2 tablespoons hot sauce, melted butter, and 1 teaspoon ranch seasoning.
  • Cut the chicken into ½-inch pieces and toss in the hot sauce mixture to coat.
  • Meanwhile, in a 12-inch broiler-safe skillet, bring the water and milk to a boil over medium-high heat.
  • Stir in the macaroni, reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook until al dente, about 5 minutes, stirring once halfway through.
  • Stir in American cheese, 1 tablespoon hot sauce, and the remaining 1 teaspoon ranch seasoning until the cheese melts, about 2 minutes.
  • Remove from heat and stir in cheddar until fully melted, about 2 minutes.
  • Heat the broiler.
  • Evenly distribute the chicken over the macaroni and broil until lightly browned, about 3 minutes.
  • Drizzle with the remaining 2 tablespoons hot sauce and sprinkle with scallions.
  • Serve immediately.