Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this flavorful dish:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles (optional, for topping)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, feel free to substitute with extra cheddar or skip it altogether. You can also adjust the spice level by choosing a milder buffalo sauce or adding more cheese to balance the heat.
Instructions
Let’s dive into the process of creating this comforting dish:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to medium and pour the buffalo sauce over the chicken, stirring to coat. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, then remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour, cooking for about 1 minute until it forms a paste.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture thickens, around 3-5 minutes. This step always reminds me of my grandmother’s patience as she stirred her sauces to perfection.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked macaroni and buffalo chicken back into the skillet, stirring gently to combine everything. Let it cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Top with blue cheese crumbles and chopped green onions before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International