Description
This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad is a flavorful and spicy twist on the classic pasta salad perfect for quick meals or casual gatherings. Combining shredded rotisserie chicken, tender elbow macaroni, crunchy vegetables, and a creamy buffalo ranch dressing, it offers a tangy and zesty flavor with a delightful kick. Ideal for serving chilled, it’s a crowd-pleaser that balances spice and creaminess with fresh herbs.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 8 oz elbow macaroni or any short pasta, cooked and drained
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup carrots, shredded
Dressing
- 1 cup ranch dressing (or blue cheese dressing for more flavor)
- 1/4 cup buffalo sauce (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients. In a large bowl, mix together the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, diced celery, finely chopped red onion, and shredded carrots to create the salad base.
- Prepare Dressing. In a separate small bowl, whisk together ranch dressing, buffalo sauce, fresh lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until you achieve a smooth, well-blended dressing.
- Toss Salad. Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta and chicken mixture, then toss thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated. Adjust buffalo sauce quantity to suit your preferred spice level.
- Chill. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill properly.
- Garnish and Serve. Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro or parsley on top if desired. Serve the salad cold for the best taste.
Notes
- For extra protein, use a full rotisserie chicken.
- Blue cheese dressing can be substituted for ranch if a stronger flavor is desired.
- Adjust buffalo sauce quantity based on spice preference.
- Make sure pasta is completely cooled before mixing to prevent wilting the vegetables.
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
