Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad is the perfect combination of bold heat, creamy dressing, and fresh crunch, making it an irresistible dish for pasta salad lovers. Inspired by the classic Buffalo chicken wing flavors, this dish is tossed with ranch dressing, shredded chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a spicy kick of Buffalo sauce.
Perfect for summer cookouts, game-day spreads, or even meal prepping, this pasta salad is packed with flavor and texture in every bite. The coolness of the dressing, the heat from the sauce, and the satisfying bite of the pasta create a balanced dish that’s guaranteed to be a crowd favorite.
This four-serving recipe keeps things simple while ensuring enough for a delicious meal or side dish.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 8 ounces rotini pasta (or any short pasta of choice)
- 1 cup cooked and shredded chicken breast
- ½ cup chopped red bell pepper
- ½ cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1 cup chopped celery (about 4 stalks)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
For the Dressing:
- ½ cup ranch dressing
- 2 tablespoons Buffalo sauce (adjust based on spice preference)
- 2 tablespoons crumbled blue cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish:
- Extra crumbled blue cheese (optional)
- Chopped green onions
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cooking the Pasta to Perfection
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once the water is boiling, add the rotini pasta and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, typically around 8-10 minutes, until it reaches an al dente texture—firm but not too soft.
Overcooking the pasta can make the salad mushy, so be sure to check for doneness by biting into a piece.
Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and immediately rinse it under cold water. This step stops the cooking process and prevents the pasta from sticking together while cooling it down quickly for the salad. Shake off any excess water and let it sit to drain completely.
2. Preparing the Creamy Buffalo Dressing
While the pasta is cooling, prepare the flavorful dressing that brings this dish together. In a large mixing bowl, combine ½ cup ranch dressing, 2 tablespoons Buffalo sauce, and 2 tablespoons crumbled blue cheese. Using a whisk, blend these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
To enhance the flavor profile, add ½ teaspoon of garlic powder and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, then continue whisking until fully incorporated. Taste the dressing and adjust the Buffalo sauce level if needed—add more for extra heat.
3. Chopping the Fresh Vegetables
Chop ½ cup red bell pepper and ½ cup green bell pepper into small, even pieces. Finely dice 1 cup of celery to add a crisp texture that complements the other ingredients. Lastly, shred 1 cup of carrots to introduce a slight natural sweetness while giving the salad a nice crunch.
4. Assembling the Salad
Now that the pasta has fully cooled and the dressing is ready, it’s time to assemble the salad. Transfer the drained rotini pasta into the large mixing bowl containing the dressing. Using a large spoon or spatula, gently toss the pasta in the creamy Buffalo dressing until every piece is evenly coated.
Next, add the shredded chicken, chopped bell peppers, diced celery, and shredded carrots to the bowl. Mix everything together thoroughly, making sure all the ingredients are well combined and evenly distributed.
5. Chilling for Maximum Flavor
For the best results, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the pasta salad into an airtight container. Place it in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 1 hour.
This resting time allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the overall taste. The longer it chills, the more flavorful it becomes!
6. Garnishing and Serving
Once the pasta salad has fully chilled, give it a final toss to refresh the dressing. Before serving, sprinkle some extra crumbled blue cheese on top for a tangy burst of flavor. Additionally, garnish with freshly chopped green onions to add a pop of color and an extra layer of taste.
Tips & Variations
Customize the Spice Level
- Reduce the Buffalo sauce if you prefer a milder dish.
- For a spicier kick, add cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or extra Buffalo sauce.
Switch Up the Cheese
- Not a fan of blue cheese? Swap it out for sharp cheddar or shredded mozzarella.
- For a richer taste, add extra crumbles of feta or pepper jack cheese.
Storage and Meal Prep
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- If the pasta soaks up too much dressing overnight, add a little extra ranch dressing before serving to refresh it.
This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad is an absolute flavor bomb, blending creamy, spicy, and crunchy elements into one irresistible dish. The cool ranch dressing perfectly balances the heat of the Buffalo sauce, while the fresh vegetables add a refreshing crunch that keeps each bite exciting.
Give it a try, and let this spicy, creamy, and addictive pasta salad win over your taste buds!
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