Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
A delightful mix of spicy buffalo sauce, tender pasta, juicy chicken, and creamy ranch dressing that’s perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 2 cups cooked pasta (such as rotini or penne) Cook according to package instructions.
- 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken Use leftover chicken if available.
Vegetables
- 1/2 cup celery, chopped Adds a refreshing crunch.
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced Contributes slight sweetness.
Dressings and Cheese
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce Adjust for spice level preference.
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing Use high-quality for best flavor.
- 1 cup shredded cheese (such as cheddar or blue cheese) Be generous if you love cheese.
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook pasta according to package instructions, then drain and cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta and shredded chicken.
- Add chopped celery and diced red onion to the bowl and stir gently.
Mixing
- In a separate bowl, mix buffalo sauce and ranch dressing together.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss carefully.
- Add shredded cheese and mix gently to incorporate.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Chilling
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Before serving, toss the salad again and garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Notes
Serve this salad cold for the best experience. It pairs well with crusty bread or as a filling for wraps. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.