Buffalo Wild Wings is known for its bold flavors, and if you love its signature sauces, you’ll enjoy this Buffalo Wild Wings Pasta Salad Recipe at home. This recipe blends the spicy kick of Buffalo sauce, creamy dressing, tender chicken, and crisp vegetables into a refreshing pasta salad that’s perfect for BBQs, picnics, or even meal prep.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, storage tips, taste profile, and serving ideas to make this pasta salad taste just like the restaurant version.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients List
To recreate the authentic Buffalo Wild Wings-style pasta salad, you’ll need:
For the Pasta Salad:
- 16 oz rotini or farfalle pasta (cooked al dente)
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
- ½ cup celery (chopped)
- ½ cup red bell pepper (diced)
- ½ cup green bell pepper (diced)
- ¼ cup red onion (finely diced)
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- ¼ cup grated carrots
- ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional)
For the Dressing:
- ½ cup Buffalo sauce (adjust to taste)
- ½ cup ranch dressing (or blue cheese dressing)
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Optional Add-ins:
- Avocado slices
- Bacon bits
- Hard-boiled eggs (chopped)
- Jalapeños for extra spice
Essential Kitchen Tools for a Hassle-Free Cooking Experience
To make this recipe easier, have these kitchen tools ready:
- Large Mixing Bowl – For combining all the ingredients.
- Medium Pot – To cook the pasta.
- Strainer – To drain the pasta properly.
- Whisk or Spoon – To mix the dressing and sauce evenly.
- Storage Containers – To store any leftovers.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Buffalo Wild Wings Pasta Salad Recipe
Follow these simple steps to prepare the salad:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions (about 8-10 minutes) until al dente.
- Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking.
- Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- If using rotisserie chicken, shred it into bite-sized pieces.
- If using grilled or cooked chicken breasts, dice into cubes.
- For extra flavor, toss the chicken in 1 tablespoon of Buffalo sauce before mixing.
Step 3: Chop the Vegetables
- Dice the red and green bell peppers.
- Finely chop the red onion and celery.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes.
- Grate the carrots.
Step 4: Make the Buffalo Dressing
- In a large bowl, whisk together:
- Buffalo sauce
- Ranch dressing
- Mayonnaise
- Sour cream
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt, pepper, and smoked paprika
- Mix until smooth and well combined.
Step 5: Combine Everything
- In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Cooked pasta
- Chicken
- Chopped vegetables
- Shredded cheddar cheese (if using)
- Pour the Buffalo dressing over the mixture.
- Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Step 6: Chill & Serve
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours.
- This allows the flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, stir well and adjust seasoning if needed.
Customization & Variations for Taste
You can customize the salad to suit your taste:
1. Adjust the Spice Level
- For mild heat, use a mild Buffalo sauce or mix it with extra ranch.
- For extra spice, add more Buffalo sauce or sprinkle in cayenne pepper.
2. Change Up the Dressing
- Swap ranch for blue cheese dressing for a stronger, tangy flavor.
- Add Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a healthier option.
3. Make It Healthier
- Use whole wheat pasta or gluten-free pasta.
- Swap mayo for Greek yogurt.
- Add more vegetables like cucumbers or spinach.
4. Add More Protein
- Mix in hard-boiled eggs or bacon bits.
- Use grilled shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist.
Best Ways to Serve Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
This pasta salad pairs perfectly with:
- As a Side Dish: Pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or BBQ dishes.
- As a Main Meal: Add extra protein like chicken or shrimp for a hearty meal.
- In a Wrap: Use it as a filling for a tortilla wrap for a quick lunch.
- With Extra Toppings: Sprinkle with more cheese, crumbled bacon, or crispy onions for extra texture.
It’s also great for meal prep and stays fresh in the fridge for several days.
How to Store Leftovers?
Proper storage keeps your pasta salad fresh and delicious.
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed cold, but if needed, let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving.
- Freezing: Freezing is not recommended as the dressing may separate, and the pasta may become mushy.
Taste Profile
Buffalo Wild Wings Pasta Salad has a creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy flavor. The Buffalo sauce adds heat, while the ranch or blue cheese dressing provides a smooth, cooling effect. The crunchy celery and bell peppers add freshness, making it a well-balanced dish.
Pro Tips for the Best Pasta Salad
- Use fresh veggies: They add crunch and freshness to the salad.
- Let it chill: Allowing the salad to sit for a few minutes enhances the flavors.
- Balance the spice: Adjust the Buffalo sauce level based on your spice preference.
- Add protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu can make it a complete meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Here is the approximate nutritional breakdown for Pasta Salad, based on 12 servings:
| Nutrient | Amount (Per Serving) |
| Calories | 350-400 kcal |
| Protein | 14g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Fat | 21g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 750mg |
Final Thoughts
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad is a tasty and satisfying dish. It combines spicy buffalo sauce, tender chicken, and creamy dressing. The mix of flavors and textures makes it a crowd favorite. This salad is perfect for parties, potlucks, or a quick meal.
It’s easy to make and can be prepared in advance. You can serve it cold or at room temperature. One great thing about this dish is its flexibility. You can add more veggies, use whole wheat pasta, or lighten it up with low-fat dressing. Adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
If you love Buffalo Wild Wings, this salad is a must-try. It gives you the same bold flavors in a fresh and filling way. Try making it at home for your next meal. It’s delicious, easy, and sure to impress your friends and family
