Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad is a zesty, flavorful twist on classic pasta salad, perfect as a side dish for BBQs or a satisfying main for lunch. This bold and creamy dish combines shredded chicken breast, crisp celery, and tender rotini or bowtie pasta tossed in spicy buffalo sauce and cool ranch dressing.
Packed with protein and layered with tangy heat, it’s ideal for meal prep or cold lunch options. This easy pasta salad recipe is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Overview of Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad is a delightful twist on traditional pasta salads, combining the bold flavors of buffalo chicken with the comforting texture of pasta. This dish is perfect for summer gatherings, serving as a vibrant side dish or a satisfying main course.
Featuring colorful rotini pasta, shredded chicken, and crisp celery, this salad is dressed in a creamy buffalo-ranch sauce that adds a zesty kick. It’s a fantastic choice for those looking for a cold chicken pasta salad that packs a punch of flavor and protein.
Ingredients That Shine
The beauty of this Easy Pasta Salad Recipe lies in its simple yet vibrant ingredients. The rotini or bowtie pasta serves as the base, providing a fun shape that holds onto the dressing beautifully.
Shredded chicken, preferably flavored with buffalo sauce, brings a hearty element to the dish. Crisp celery adds a refreshing crunch, while the buffalo sauce and ranch dressing create a creamy, tangy coating that ties everything together.
Garnished with fresh green onions, this salad not only looks appealing but also offers a burst of flavor in every bite, making it an ideal choice for side dishes for BBQs.
Preparation Made Easy
Preparing this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad is a breeze, taking just about 30 minutes from start to finish. Start by cooking the pasta until al dente, then rinse it under cold water to cool.
Next, combine the cooked pasta with shredded chicken, diced celery, and the buffalo-ranch dressing in a large bowl. Stir until everything is well coated, and season to taste with salt and pepper.
Chilling the salad for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the overall taste. This step is crucial for a truly refreshing cold chicken pasta salad.
Serving Suggestions
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad is versatile and can be served in various ways. It shines as a side dish at summer BBQs, complementing grilled meats and other favorites. Alternatively, it can stand alone as a hearty lunch option, packed with protein and flavor.
For a fun twist, consider serving it in individual cups for easy sharing at gatherings. This presentation not only looks appealing but also makes it convenient for guests to enjoy.
Nutrition and Benefits
This Protein Pasta Salad is not only delicious but also nutritious. Each serving provides a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats, making it a satisfying choice for any meal.
With approximately 350 calories per serving, it’s a guilt-free option that doesn’t compromise on taste. The combination of shredded chicken and creamy dressing ensures that you feel full and satisfied without overindulging.
Final Thoughts on Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad is a fantastic addition to any summer menu. Its vibrant colors and bold flavors make it a crowd-pleaser, perfect for BBQs or casual gatherings.
Whether enjoyed as a side dish or a main course, this creamy buffalo chicken pasta is sure to impress. With its easy preparation and delightful taste, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep on hand for all your summer festivities.
Easy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad features cooked pasta mixed with shredded chicken, diced celery, and a buffalo-ranch dressing. The recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish and serves 6 people. It’s a great choice for a cold chicken pasta salad that delivers bold flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces rotini or bowtie pasta
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (preferably buffalo-flavored)
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, diced celery, buffalo sauce, and ranch dressing. Stir until everything is well coated.
- Season: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Chill: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Toss again before serving and garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g