Who says comfort food can’t be healthy? This Healthy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is here to prove that you can enjoy rich, creamy, and satisfying flavors without the guilt. We’re taking a beloved classic – spicy buffalo chicken and gooey mac and cheese – and infusing it with wholesome ingredients like fresh broccoli and a lighter cheese sauce base. The result is a vibrant, flavorful, and incredibly nourishing dish that’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck.
Why I Love This Recipe
I’m always striving to create recipes that hit all the right flavor notes while also being mindful of nutrition, and this Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese perfectly embodies that balance. What I truly adore about this dish is how it manages to be incredibly comforting and indulgent, yet packed with vegetables and lean protein. The fiery kick of the buffalo sauce, combined with the creamy, cheesy pasta and tender-crisp broccoli, creates an exciting medley of textures and tastes.
It’s fantastic because it’s a complete meal in one pot (mostly!), simplifying cleanup and making it ideal for busy schedules. Plus, it’s easily customizable to dietary needs, offering gluten-free and vegan options. This dish brings all the joy of classic mac and cheese with a vibrant, healthier twist that you’ll feel great about serving to your family and friends.
Ingredients
To create this flavorful and wholesome Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese, you’ll need:
- 12 oz fusilli or elbow pasta (use gluten-free if needed)
- 2 medium chicken breasts
- ⅓ cup medium buffalo sauce, more to taste
- 12 oz fresh broccoli florets (from one medium head)
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 Tbsp butter (or vegan butter)
- ¼ cup yellow onion, minced
- 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour (use gluten-free all-purpose flour if needed)
- 1 + 1/2 cups unsweetened almond milk
- 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegan)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar, or vegan cheddar
- 1 tsp salt, more to taste
- 1 tsp black pepper
Swaps and Notes
- Pasta: Fusilli or elbow pasta are classic choices for holding the sauce. For a gluten-free version, simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta.
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are lean and shred beautifully. You could also use cooked rotisserie chicken for an even quicker meal. For a vegan version, omit the chicken or use a plant-based chicken substitute.
- Buffalo Sauce: Medium buffalo sauce provides a balanced kick. Adjust the amount to your preference – less for milder, more for spicier!
- Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are ideal for roasting. You can also use frozen broccoli florets, just ensure they are thoroughly drained after thawing if using from frozen. Other veggies like cauliflower or spinach could also be added.
- Flour: All-purpose flour helps thicken the cheese sauce. A 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend can be used for a gluten-free dish.
- Milk: Unsweetened almond milk keeps the sauce lighter and dairy-free if using vegan cheese. Other non-dairy milks (like soy or oat) or regular dairy milk can be used.
- Broth: Chicken broth adds savory depth. Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian or vegan version.
- Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar provides great flavor. For a vegan dish, ensure you use a good quality vegan shredded cheddar that melts well.
- Seasoning: Adjust salt and pepper to taste throughout the recipe. A pinch of garlic powder or onion powder could also enhance the sauce.
List of Steps for the Recipe
- Preheat Oven & Prep Tray: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line and lightly grease a baking tray with parchment paper or cooking spray.
- Cook Pasta: Cook the fusilli or elbow pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it with cold water. This step prevents the pasta from sticking together and stops the cooking process. Set the cooked pasta to the side.
- Prepare Buffalo Chicken: Meanwhile, season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a large pot and cover them with about 1 inch of water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the chicken cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) or is no longer pink in the center, typically about 12 to 16 minutes. Remove the cooked chicken from the water and use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Add the buffalo sauce to the shredded chicken and toss to coat evenly. Set the buffalo chicken aside.
- Roast Broccoli: Meanwhile, prepare the medium-sized broccoli florets. Spray them with avocado oil (or drizzle with olive oil), and season with salt and pepper. Spread the seasoned broccoli in a single layer on the prepared baking tray. Roast in the preheated oven for 15 – 20 minutes, or until tender-crisp and slightly browned. Set the roasted broccoli aside when done.
- Start Cheese Sauce (Roux): While the broccoli is roasting, place a large skillet or Dutch oven on the stovetop. Heat to medium heat and melt the 1 Tbsp butter. Once melted, add the 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour and cook over low heat for 2 minutes, stirring constantly with a whisk. This creates a roux, which will thicken your sauce.
- Sauté Onion: Add the minced yellow onion to the roux and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring until it softens and becomes translucent.
- Whisk in Liquids: Gradually add the chicken broth and unsweetened almond milk to the skillet, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Add 1 tsp salt and 1 tsp black pepper. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil. Continue to cook for about 5 minutes, whisking constantly, until the sauce becomes smooth and thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- Melt Cheese: Once the sauce is thick, remove the skillet from the heat. Add the 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or vegan cheddar) and mix vigorously with the whisk until the cheese is completely melted and incorporated, forming a smooth, creamy sauce. Taste the sauce and adjust salt and pepper to taste if needed.
- Combine & Serve: Add the cooked macaroni, roasted broccoli florets, and buffalo chicken into the cheese sauce. Stir everything gently until all ingredients are well combined and coated in the creamy sauce. Taste and adjust seasonings one final time.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy this healthy, hearty, and incredibly delicious Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese!
Tips for Success
- Shred Chicken Easily: Boiling and then shredding the chicken breasts with two forks is a quick and effective method.
- Don’t Overcook Pasta: Al dente pasta holds up better in the rich sauce and during reheating.
- Roast Broccoli Separately: Roasting the broccoli before adding ensures it’s tender-crisp and not soggy.
- Whisk Constantly for Sauce: Continuous whisking is crucial when making the cheese sauce to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Adjust Spice Level: Don’t be afraid to add more buffalo sauce to the shredded chicken if you like extra heat!
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste the sauce and the final dish before serving to ensure the seasonings are perfect.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This Healthy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs well with:
- A Simple Side Salad: A light, refreshing green salad with a vinaigrette dressing can offer a nice contrast to the richness of the mac and cheese.
- Celery Sticks and Blue Cheese Dressing: To lean into the classic buffalo flavor profile, offer a side of celery sticks and a cooling blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping.
- Garlic Bread: A slice of warm, crusty garlic bread is always a welcome addition for soaking up any extra sauce.
- Other Comfort Foods: This dish could be served alongside a smaller portion of another comforting meal. It complements items found in a hearty This Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole is My Favorite One-Pan Dinner That’s Always a Hit.
Storage and Leftover Tips
Leftover Healthy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To reheat, gently warm portions in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. You may need to add a splash of extra almond milk or broth to loosen the sauce and restore creaminess, as pasta dishes tend to thicken significantly upon cooling.
More Recipes You Will Love
If you enjoyed the cheesy goodness and comforting flavors of this dish, be sure to explore some of these other fantastic recipes from Chef Maniac:
- For another fantastic chicken and cheese combo, try Easy Cheesy Chicken Sliders with Marinara Garlic Butter.
- If you’re a fan of other easy cheesy delights, check out Easy Cheese-Stuffed Chicken Wontons with Ranch: Golden, Crunchy, Addictive!.
- And for another comforting, hearty dish, don’t miss This Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo is My Favorite Bowl of Southern Comfort or a classic like Classic Spaghetti Recipe with Homemade Sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Healthy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is proof that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for health. It’s a vibrant, satisfying, and deeply comforting meal that’s perfect for satisfying cravings without the guilt. Get ready to enjoy a fantastic twist on a beloved classic!
Did you add any other veggies to your mac and cheese? What’s your favorite healthy comfort food hack? Share your ideas and feedback in the comments below! And for more amazing recipes that combine flavor and well-being, be sure to follow Chef Maniac and Jason Griffith.
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