Buffalo Chicken Casserole is the perfect blend of bold flavor, creamy texture, and hearty comfort food. Inspired by classic buffalo wings, this casserole transforms the spicy, tangy flavors everyone loves into a satisfying baked dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for sharing. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or preparing food for game day, this casserole delivers big taste with minimal effort.
What makes Buffalo Chicken Casserole so popular is its versatility. It can be made keto-friendly, low-carb, or even adapted for different dietary needs without sacrificing flavor. The combination of tender chicken, spicy buffalo sauce, rich cream cheese, melty cheese, and savory seasonings creates a dish that feels indulgent while still being simple to prepare.
This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights because it uses straightforward ingredients and can be assembled in advance. It’s also a crowd-pleaser—perfect for potlucks, gatherings, or casual dinners when you want something filling and flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
- If not already cooked, boil or bake the chicken until fully cooked. Let it cool slightly, then shred using two forks. Place shredded chicken into a large mixing bowl.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, add butter, cream cheese, and heavy cream. Whisk continuously until smooth and creamy. Stir in buffalo sauce, ranch or blue cheese dressing, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the buffalo cream sauce over the shredded chicken. Mix until all pieces are evenly coated.
- Transfer the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread evenly using a spatula. Sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5–10 minutes. Garnish with green onions, parsley, or blue cheese if desired.
Notes
Nutritional Facts and Total Calories
- Calories: 540 kcal
- Protein: 38 g
- Fat: 42 g
- Total Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Net Carbs: 5 g
Buffalo Chicken Casserole
Ingredient Notes
Chicken Breast
Boneless, skinless chicken breast is lean, tender, and easy to shred. You can also use rotisserie chicken for convenience. The chicken serves as the protein base and absorbs the buffalo flavor beautifully.
Buffalo Sauce
Buffalo sauce provides the signature spicy, tangy taste. Choose a sugar-free version for keto or low-carb diets. Adjust the quantity depending on your heat tolerance.
Cream Cheese
Cream cheese creates the rich, creamy texture that balances the heat of the buffalo sauce. Softening it beforehand ensures smooth blending.
Heavy Cream
Heavy cream adds richness and prevents the casserole from drying out during baking. It also helps create a luxurious sauce consistency.
Cheddar Cheese
Cheddar adds sharpness and depth of flavor. It melts well and complements the buffalo sauce perfectly.
Mozzarella Cheese
Mozzarella contributes stretchiness and a mild flavor that balances the stronger cheeses and spices.
Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing
This ingredient cools down the spice and adds classic buffalo-style creaminess. Use whichever you prefer for flavor.
Butter
Butter enhances richness and helps carry flavors throughout the casserole.
Seasonings
Garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika add warmth, savoriness, and subtle smokiness without overpowering the dish.
Serving Instructions
- Serve hot directly from the baking dish.
- Pair with celery sticks, cucumber slices, or a fresh green salad.
- For keto-friendly sides, serve with cauliflower rice or roasted broccoli.
- Ideal as a main dish or hearty appetizer for gatherings.
Tips
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Adjust buffalo sauce for mild or extra spicy flavor.
- Add cooked cauliflower or broccoli for extra vegetables.
- For extra crispiness, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.
- Let the casserole rest before serving for cleaner slices.
Storage Information
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze portions for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F or microwave until heated through.
FAQs
1. Can I make Buffalo Chicken Casserole keto-friendly?
Yes. Use sugar-free buffalo sauce and ranch dressing to keep carbs low.
2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely. Chicken thighs add extra juiciness and flavor.
3. Is this casserole spicy?
It has a mild to medium heat, but you can adjust the spice level by changing the amount of buffalo sauce.
4. Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
5. What cheese works best for this recipe?
Cheddar and mozzarella are ideal, but Monterey Jack or Colby Jack also work well.
