Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad combines perfectly cooked pasta, succulent chicken, and crisp vegetables with an irresistible buffalo-ranch dressing. This dish is a true crowd-pleaser, delivering a delightful kick with every creamy, satisfying bite.
Family Favorite
The Pasta Salad That Vanishes First!
There’s a reason buffalo sauce always has a dedicated spot in my pantry. My family, myself included, simply adores anything with that signature buffalo flavor. We’ve explored everything from Buffalo Chicken Wraps to Buffalo Chicken Pasta and even Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps. This constant love for buffalo-flavored dishes fuels my passion for finding new, exciting ways to incorporate it into our meals.
The creation of this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad was born out of a desire for something special for a summer cookout. I needed a dish that was not only simple to prepare but also vibrant enough to stand out amongst the usual array of side dishes. I envisioned a pasta salad with a lively kick, something that would truly make an impression.
I combined tender rotini pasta with shredded rotisserie chicken, a medley of colorful, crisp vegetables, and a quick, zesty buffalo-ranch dressing. The result was phenomenal. By the time we gathered around the table, the bowl was already nearly empty! My husband enthusiastically went back for seconds, and to my surprise, even my kids – who often shy away from salads – couldn’t resist picking at the cheesy bits and flavorful chicken. That moment sealed its fate: this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad had to become a regular fixture in our culinary rotation.
Now, it’s my go-to recipe for everything from casual potlucks and lively tailgates to quick, satisfying lunches. It consistently proves to be effortlessly delicious, incredibly flavorful, and unfailingly disappears in record time, making it a true testament to its universal appeal.
Quick Tip for Flavorful Pasta
Always Salt Your Pasta Water: This isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a vital step for enhancing the flavor of your pasta from the inside out. Well-salted water imbues the pasta with taste as it cooks, making a huge difference in the overall dish.
Essential Ingredients for Your Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
Crafting the perfect Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad begins with selecting fresh, quality ingredients that contribute to its vibrant flavor and satisfying texture. Here’s what you’ll need, along with some flexible swaps to suit your taste:
| Ingredient | Swaps & Tips for Customization |
|---|---|
| Rotini Pasta | Rotini’s spirals are excellent for catching the creamy dressing, but any short, sturdy pasta shape works beautifully. Consider using bowtie (farfalle), penne, or medium shells for similar results. Remember to generously salt your cooking water to season the pasta as it boils. |
| Cooked Chicken | For ultimate convenience, rotisserie chicken is a fantastic choice, offering both flavor and tenderness. You can also use leftover grilled, baked, or poached chicken breast, finely chopped or shredded. For a delicious vegetarian Buffalo Pasta Salad, simply swap the chicken with roasted chickpeas or crumbled firm tofu. |
| Celery | Celery provides an essential crisp texture and a refreshing bite that complements the richness of the dressing. If celery isn’t your favorite, finely diced cucumbers offer a similar crunch, or try thinly sliced radishes for a peppery zest. |
| Red Bell Pepper | Red bell peppers add a beautiful pop of color and a sweet, mild flavor. Feel free to use orange or yellow peppers for variety. For those who enjoy a little extra warmth, a finely diced poblano pepper can introduce a subtle, smoky heat. |
| Carrots | Grated carrots blend seamlessly into the salad, adding natural sweetness and a subtle crunch without being overwhelming. To ensure they’re not too chunky, grate them finely. Shredded zucchini or even finely chopped jicama can be interesting alternatives. |
| Green Onions | Green onions provide a mild, fresh onion flavor that brightens the entire dish. If you prefer a stronger onion note, thinly sliced red onion can be used. Alternatively, if you’re not an onion fan, you can simply omit them. |
| Buffalo-Ranch Dressing | This signature dressing is the heart of the salad! It’s a simple yet powerful combination of creamy ranch dressing and zesty buffalo sauce. Adjust the ratio of buffalo sauce to ranch according to your preferred spice level – more buffalo for a fiery kick, less for a milder taste. |
Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
Making this delightful Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad is incredibly straightforward, perfect for a quick meal or preparing ahead for a gathering. Follow these simple steps for a perfectly balanced and flavorful dish:
Print Recipe
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe
Recipe Video (Optional)
Watch how to prepare this delicious Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad:
Click to watch the Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad tutorial!
Equipment Needed
- Large pot (for cooking pasta)
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
Ingredients
- 1 (16-ounce) package rotini pasta or similar short pasta
- 3 cups cooked chicken, chopped small (rotisserie, grilled, or baked)
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced celery (about 1 stalk)
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 3/4 cup green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 cup grated carrot (grated on the large holes of a cheese grater)
- 3/4 cup buffalo sauce (see Note 1 below)
- 3/4 cup ranch dressing (see Note 2 below)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a medium bowl, combine all the dressing ingredients: buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, mayonnaise, garlic powder, and black pepper. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is completely smooth and well combined. Place the bowl in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the rest of the salad components; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot containing about 12 cups of water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once the water is boiling rapidly, add 1 tablespoon of salt. Then, add the rotini pasta (or your chosen pasta shape) and cook according to the package directions until it is al dente – firm to the bite but cooked through. Drain the pasta immediately and rinse it briefly under cold water for no longer than 20 seconds to stop the cooking process and prevent it from sticking. Set the drained pasta aside to cool completely.
- Assemble the Salad: Transfer the fully cooled pasta into a large mixing bowl. Add the chopped cooked chicken, thinly sliced celery, chopped red bell pepper, thinly sliced green onions, and grated carrot. Pour the chilled buffalo-ranch dressing over the salad mixture. Stir everything thoroughly to ensure all the pasta, chicken, and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper if needed, adjusting to your preference.
Recipe Notes for Success
Note 1 (Buffalo Sauce): For the best authentic flavor, I highly recommend Frank’s® RedHot Wings Buffalo Sauce in this recipe. It’s crucial to use the product specifically labeled “buffalo” wings sauce, not their original cayenne pepper sauce, as the flavor profile is distinct and essential for this dish.
Note 2 (Ranch Dressing): My go-to ranch dressing for this recipe is Litehouse Homestyle Ranch, especially the refrigerated kind. If you prefer a homemade touch or want to avoid store-bought options, try my favorite Ranch Dressing Recipe for a fresh and flavorful alternative.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips: While this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad is undeniably best enjoyed on the day it’s prepared when the ingredients are at their freshest, it stores well. You can prepare and chop all the vegetables and cook the chicken in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Assemble the salad with the dressing just before serving to maintain optimal freshness and texture. Leftovers will keep for 3-4 days in an airtight container in the fridge. The pasta will absorb some dressing over time, so you might need to stir in a tablespoon or two of extra ranch or buffalo sauce before serving if it seems a little dry.
Nutrition Information (Approximate)
Per serving (1 serving):
- Calories: 433 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 46.6g
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 18.8g
- Cholesterol: 40.7mg
- Sodium: 500.8mg
- Fiber: 2.7g
- Sugar: 3.8g
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used only as an approximation. Actual values may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.
Like this recipe? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave a comment below!
Creative Variations to Switch Things Up
Personalize Your Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
One of the best things about this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad is how easily it can be adapted to your personal preferences or what you have on hand. Don’t hesitate to get creative!
- Adjust the Spice Level: The amount of buffalo sauce dictates the heat. For a milder salad, reduce the buffalo sauce and increase the ranch dressing. For those who crave more heat, don’t shy away from adding a little extra buffalo sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Vary the Veggies: Not a fan of celery or carrots? No problem! You can easily swap them out or add other crisp vegetables. Diced cucumbers offer a refreshing crunch, while radishes provide a peppery bite. Consider adding cherry tomatoes, corn, or even finely chopped bell peppers of different colors for added visual appeal and flavor.
- Add More Cheese: While the dressing provides plenty of creaminess, cheese can elevate the experience. Crumbled blue cheese adds a pungent, tangy flavor that pairs wonderfully with buffalo sauce. For a milder, more kid-friendly option, stir in small cubes of mozzarella or cheddar cheese.
- Experiment with Protein: The cooked chicken is versatile, but you can swap it for other proteins. Crispy Air Fryer Chickpeas make an excellent vegetarian alternative with a satisfying crunch. Crumbled, cooked bacon adds a savory, smoky dimension. You can also use cooked shrimp for a seafood twist, or simply omit the protein for a delightful side salad.
What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
This vibrant Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad can be a standalone meal, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of complementary dishes. Here are some excellent ideas to round out your spread:
Side Dishes
Fluffy Cornbread Recipe
Fruit Salads
Tropical Fruit Salad (3-Ingredient Dressing!)
Healthy
Crisp Cucumber Salad
Dinner