Save This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad is a zesty and satisfying cold dish that brings the bold flavors of classic American wings to your table. Featuring tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a creamy ranch dressing, it is an ideal choice for summer picnics, potlucks, or a quick weeknight meal.
Save What makes this salad a standout is the combination of textures. The soft pasta pairs perfectly with the crisp celery and bell peppers, while the tangy buffalo chicken provides a protein-packed punch that keeps you coming back for more.
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) rotini or penne pasta
- 2 cups (about 300 g) cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
- 1/3 cup (80 ml) buffalo wing sauce
- 1 cup (120 g) celery, finely diced
- 1 cup (120 g) red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup (60 g) red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup (120 g) cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3/4 cup (180 ml) ranch dressing
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) sour cream
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 cup (60 g) crumbled blue cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives or parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside.
- Step 2
- In a medium bowl, toss the cooked chicken with buffalo wing sauce until evenly coated.
- Step 3
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, buffalo chicken, celery, red bell pepper, red onion, and cherry tomatoes.
- Step 4
- In a small bowl, whisk together ranch dressing, sour cream, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Step 5
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Step 6
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Step 7
- Before serving, garnish with crumbled blue cheese and fresh chives or parsley, if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the fastest preparation, rotisserie chicken works exceptionally well. Simply shred the meat while it is still slightly warm so it absorbs the buffalo sauce better. Always rinse your pasta in cold water to stop the cooking process immediately and keep the salad refreshing.
Varianten und Anpassungen
To lighten up the dish, you can substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt. If you are a fan of heat, feel free to add an extra splash of buffalo sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the dressing mixture.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this pasta salad thoroughly chilled. It is best enjoyed within two days and pairs wonderfully with grilled corn on the cob or as a side to your favorite BBQ dishes.
Save Whether you are hosting a summer party or just looking for a flavorful lunch, this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the perfect blend of spice, crunch, and creaminess in every bite!
Recipe Guide
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this dish is ideal for advance preparation. Combine all ingredients up to 2 hours before serving, then refrigerate. This allows flavors to develop further. Add fresh garnishes just before serving for best presentation.
- → What type of pasta works best?
Rotini and penne are excellent choices due to their ability to hold dressing. Any short pasta with ridges or curves will work well. Cook until al dente so it maintains texture when tossed with other ingredients.
- → How can I adjust the spice level?
For more heat, increase the buffalo sauce or add cayenne pepper to the dressing. For milder flavor, reduce buffalo sauce and mix it with ranch dressing before coating the chicken. Taste as you go to reach your preferred heat level.
- → What are good substitutions for dietary preferences?
Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for fewer calories. Use rotisserie chicken for convenience. Skip blue cheese or substitute feta if preferred. Ensure your ranch dressing choice accommodates any dietary restrictions or allergies.
- → How long does this keep in the refrigerator?
Properly covered, this salad stays fresh for up to 2 days. The pasta will soften slightly over time, and dressing may separate, so give it a quick stir before serving. Store in an airtight container to maintain quality.
- → Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely. Rotisserie chicken is a convenient shortcut and saves cooking time significantly. Shred or cube it and toss directly with buffalo sauce. This makes preparation even faster without compromising flavor or quality.