Banquet Mega Bowls Buffalo Style Chicken Mac n Cheese offers a convenient and flavorful frozen meal option. This spicy mac and cheese dish comes topped with buffalo-seasoned chicken breast and shredded mozzarella, providing a hearty and satisfying meal.
Properly stored in a freezer at 0°F (-18°C) or below, Banquet Mega Bowls Buffalo Style Chicken Mac n Cheese can last up to 3-4 months while maintaining its best quality. Beyond this timeframe, the product remains safe to eat but may experience changes in texture and flavor.
To ensure the longest shelf life, keep the product in its original packaging and store it in the back of the freezer where temperatures are most consistent. Always check the “best by” date printed on the package for specific guidance on optimal consumption timelines.
Product Overview
Banquet Mega Bowls Buffalo-Style Chicken Mac ‘n Cheese combines spicy flavors with creamy textures in a hearty frozen meal. This dish features buffalo-seasoned chicken breast, macaroni pasta, and a zesty cheese sauce.
Meal Composition
The meal centers around tender macaroni pasta coated in a spicy cheddar cheese sauce. Buffalo-seasoned chicken breast pieces provide a protein boost. Shredded mozzarella cheese tops the dish, adding extra richness. The bowl contains approximately 14 ounces of food, making it a substantial single-serving meal.
The chicken is seasoned with classic buffalo-style spices for a tangy kick. Macaroni noodles form the base, soaking up the flavorful sauce. The cheddar cheese sauce ties everything together with its creamy consistency and sharp taste.
Flavor Profile
This Mega Bowl delivers bold buffalo flavors balanced by creamy cheese. The spicy cheddar sauce provides a zesty foundation with noticeable heat. Buffalo seasonings on the chicken amplify the spiciness while adding tangy notes.
Melted mozzarella on top offers a milder contrast to the bold sauce. The combination creates a satisfying blend of spicy, tangy, and cheesy flavors. The overall taste is reminiscent of buffalo chicken wings paired with mac and cheese.
Heat levels may vary but tend toward the spicier side. Those who enjoy buffalo-style foods will appreciate the authentic flavor profile of this frozen meal.
Nutritional Information
Banquet Mega Bowls Buffalo-Style Chicken Mac ‘N Cheese provides a substantial meal with notable calorie and nutrient content. The dish contains key ingredients and potential allergens that consumers should be aware of.
Ingredients
The main components of this dish include chicken breast, macaroni, and cheese sauce. Wheat pasta forms the base, while part-skim mozzarella cheese adds richness. Isolated soy protein is used to enhance the protein content.
A seasoning blend gives the dish its distinctive Buffalo-style flavor. The sauce likely contains milk products for creaminess. Vegetables may be included, though in smaller quantities compared to the primary ingredients.
Allergen Advice
This product contains several common allergens. Wheat is present in the pasta, making it unsuitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Milk allergens are found in the cheese sauce and seasonings.
Soy is another allergen, present in the form of isolated soy protein. Those with soy allergies should avoid this product. The chicken component may be processed in facilities that handle other meats, posing a risk of cross-contamination.
It’s crucial for individuals with food allergies to carefully read the label before consumption. The product packaging should list all allergens prominently to ensure consumer safety.
Preparation Guidelines
Properly preparing Banquet Mega Bowls Buffalo Style Chicken Mac ‘n Cheese ensures the best taste and texture. Following the recommended cooking instructions and optimizing preparation methods can enhance the meal experience.
Cooking Instructions
Remove the Mega Bowl from the freezer and puncture the film cover several times with a fork. Place the bowl in the microwave and cook on high for 4 minutes. Carefully remove the bowl and peel back the film cover, stirring the contents thoroughly.
Return the bowl to the microwave and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let the meal stand for 1 minute before serving to allow the heat to distribute evenly.
For conventional ovens, preheat to 350°F (175°C). Remove the bowl from the box and place it on a baking sheet. Cook for 55-60 minutes or until thoroughly heated.
Optimal Preparation
To enhance flavor, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of blue cheese crumbles after cooking. For a crunchier texture, transfer the heated contents to an oven-safe dish and broil for 1-2 minutes.
Allow the meal to cool slightly before eating to prevent burns. Stir well to distribute the cheese sauce evenly throughout the pasta and chicken. For a restaurant-style presentation, garnish with chopped green onions or a dollop of sour cream.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 2-3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Shelf Life and Storage
Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the quality and safety of Banquet Mega Bowls Buffalo Style Chicken Mac ‘n Cheese. The shelf life varies depending on whether the meal is kept frozen or has been cooked.
Freezer Storage
Banquet Mega Bowls can last up to 12-18 months when stored properly in a freezer. Keep the temperature at 0°F (-18°C) or below for optimal preservation. Store the bowl in its original packaging to protect against freezer burn.
Check the “Best By” date printed on the package as a guideline for quality. While the meal may remain safe to eat beyond this date, its flavor and texture could decline over time.
To maximize freshness, place the Mega Bowl towards the back of the freezer where temperatures are most consistent. Avoid storing near the door to prevent temperature fluctuations.
After Cooking
Once cooked, refrigerate any leftover Banquet Mega Bowl within 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth. Store in an airtight container and consume within 3-4 days for best quality and safety.
Reheat leftovers to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before eating. Use a food thermometer to ensure thorough heating.
For extended storage, freeze cooked leftovers in a freezer-safe container. Consume within 2-3 months for optimal taste and texture.
Do not refreeze thawed Mega Bowls that have not been cooked, as this can compromise food safety and quality.
Consumer Insights
Banquet Mega Bowls Buffalo-Style Chicken Mac ‘N Cheese has generated varied reactions from consumers. Reviews highlight key aspects of the product’s taste, quality, and value.
Customer Ratings
The Buffalo-Style Chicken Mac ‘N Cheese has received mixed ratings from customers. Many appreciate the spicy flavor and generous portion size. Some reviewers give it high marks for convenience and satisfying taste.
A common rating is 6 out of 10, indicating an above-average but not exceptional product. Customers often note the meal as a decent option for quick lunches or dinners. The 31 grams of protein per serving is frequently cited as a positive feature.
Product Feedback
Consumers have provided specific feedback on various aspects of the meal. The buffalo sauce receives praise for its spiciness and flavor, though some find it watery. The macaroni texture is a point of contention, with reports of it being overdone.
The chicken quality gets mixed reviews. Some enjoy the buffalo-seasoned chicken breast, while others describe it as mediocre. The meat-to-pasta ratio is generally well-received. Customers appreciate the addition of shredded mozzarella cheese.
Many reviewers recommend the product for occasional consumption rather than regular meals. The convenience factor is a key selling point for busy individuals seeking a quick, flavorful option.