If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with bold flavors, satisfying textures, and a dash of spice, this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe is just what your taste buds need. It brilliantly blends tender shredded chicken with crisp celery, sweet carrots, and hearty rotini pasta, all tied together with a tangy, creamy dressing that carries just the right kick of buffalo sauce. Whether you’re looking for a colorful side dish, a refreshing lunch, or a crowd-pleasing potluck contribution, this salad hits all the marks and comes together in no time at all.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each one playing a special role in making this dish truly delicious. From the al dente pasta that provides a satisfying bite to the crunchy celery and carrots that add freshness and color, every component complements the spicy, creamy dressing perfectly.
- 2 cups rotini pasta, cooked al dente and chilled: The spiral shape holds onto dressing and delivers a delightful texture.
- 1 cooked chicken breast, shredded (about 1 cup): Tender and protein-packed, it’s the star of the salad.
- 4 stalks celery, chopped (about 1 cup): Adds crunch and a mild, refreshing flavor.
- 1 cup shredded carrots: Offers sweetness, vibrant color, and a subtle texture contrast.
- ½ cup ranch dressing: The creamy base that balances the heat wonderfully.
- 2 tablespoons buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot), more to taste: Brings that iconic spicy punch everyone loves.
- 2 tablespoons crumbled blue cheese: Adds tanginess and a bold depth of flavor.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe
Step 1: Make the Dressing
Start by combining the ranch dressing, buffalo wing sauce, and crumbled blue cheese in a small bowl. Whisk these ingredients well to create a creamy, spicy dressing that ties the whole salad together. Be sure to taste and adjust the buffalo sauce to your preferred level of heat—it’s all about finding that perfect balance of creaminess and spice.
Step 2: Combine the Main Ingredients
Grab a large bowl and toss together the cooked, chilled rotini pasta with the shredded chicken, chopped celery, and shredded carrots. Mixing these ingredients now sets the stage for the dressing to coat every bite beautifully.
Step 3: Toss and Serve
Pour your homemade buffalo ranch dressing over the salad mixture. Stir thoroughly until every piece of pasta, chicken, and vegetable is coated in that flavorful dressing. Divide the salad into bowls or a large serving dish and chill slightly before serving for the best taste and texture.
How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and add extra flavor layers, sprinkle some additional crumbled blue cheese or chopped fresh parsley over the top before serving. A few thin slices of green onion or a drizzle of extra buffalo sauce can also brighten up the dish visually and taste-wise.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs perfectly with lighter sides like crisp garden greens or a simple fruit salad to refresh the palate. For more substantial meals, serve it alongside grilled corn on the cob or garlic bread to make it a satisfying feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress your guests? Serve the Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe in individual mason jars or petite bowls for a charming presentation. Another fun option is turning it into stuffed bell peppers for a unique twist that enhances the dish’s vibrant colors and flavors even more.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors deepen over time, just be sure to give it a good stir before serving again to redistribute any dressing that may have settled.
Freezing
Freezing this salad isn’t recommended because the texture of the celery and dressing can change unfavorably after thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored refrigerated.
Reheating
This salad is designed to be served cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary. If you prefer it slightly warmer, allow it to sit out for 10–15 minutes, but keep in mind that the crisp vegetables provide the best experience when chilled.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta for this salad?
Absolutely! While rotini is ideal for holding onto the dressing, penne, shells, or farfalle also work well and add their own fun textures to the salad.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute the shredded chicken with crispy baked tofu or chickpeas to keep the hearty texture and protein content while making it meat-free.
How spicy is the Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe?
The heat level is completely adjustable. Start with 2 tablespoons of buffalo sauce and add more if you enjoy a spicier kick. The ranch dressing helps mellow the spice, creating a nice balance.
Can I prepare this salad ahead of time for a party?
This is a great make-ahead dish. Prepare everything except the dressing the night before and toss them together just before serving to keep the veggies crisp and fresh.
What are some good substitutes for blue cheese if I don’t like it?
Feta cheese is a great alternative with a milder tang. You could also omit cheese altogether if you prefer a less bold flavor profile without losing any of the creamy texture.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been on the hunt for a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s both easy to make and sure to wow, this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe is your new best friend. The combination of spicy, creamy, crunchy, and tender elements creates a feast of textures and tastes that you’ll want to make again and again. So go ahead—gather your ingredients, whip it up, and watch everyone fall in love bite after bite.
Print
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (pasta cooking time, if not pre-cooked)
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad is a quick and flavorful dish combining tender shredded chicken, crunchy celery and carrots, and al dente rotini pasta tossed in a tangy and spicy buffalo ranch dressing topped with crumbled blue cheese. Perfectly chilled and easy to prepare, this salad offers a delicious blend of creamy, spicy, and savory flavors ideal for a light lunch or a party side.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups rotini pasta, cooked al dente and chilled
- 1 cooked chicken breast, shredded (about 1 cup)
- 4 stalks celery, chopped (about 1 cup)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
Dressing Ingredients
- ½ cup ranch dressing
- 2 tablespoons buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot), more to taste
- 2 tablespoons crumbled blue cheese
Instructions
- Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing, buffalo wing sauce, and crumbled blue cheese until well combined. Taste and adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to suit your preferred level of spiciness.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the chilled cooked rotini pasta, shredded cooked chicken breast, chopped celery, and shredded carrots. Mix gently to combine all components evenly.
- Toss and Serve: Pour the prepared buffalo ranch dressing over the salad ingredients in the large bowl. Toss thoroughly until every piece of pasta and vegetable is evenly coated with the dressing. Divide the salad into serving bowls and serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Be sure to chill the cooked pasta before combining to keep the salad fresh and maintain texture.
- Use cooked chicken breast from rotisserie, grilled, or poached chicken for convenience.
- Adjust the buffalo sauce quantity to control the heat level to your liking.
- The salad can be prepared a few hours ahead and refrigerated to let flavors meld.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute ranch dressing and blue cheese with appropriate vegan alternatives.
