Creamy Buffalo Chicken Cauliflower Casserole Recipe

Creamy Buffalo Chicken Cauliflower Casserole is a dish that brings together bold buffalo flavors, tender cauliflower, and juicy chicken in a creamy, cheesy casserole. It’s perfect for those looking for a low-carb, high-protein meal that still offers all the comfort of a traditional casserole. With a rich buffalo sauce, melted cheese, and a hint of ranch dressing, this casserole is a surefire crowd-pleaser and ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep.

Introduction

If you love buffalo chicken but want to avoid the carbs that usually come with it, this creamy buffalo chicken cauliflower casserole is the perfect solution. It’s packed with protein, keto-friendly, and bursting with that spicy buffalo flavor that so many people love. By swapping out the traditional pasta or rice with cauliflower, this recipe stays low in carbs but doesn’t sacrifice taste or satisfaction.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Ingredients

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease your baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or a light layer of oil.
2. Prepare the Cauliflower: Rinse and chop the cauliflower into small, bite-sized florets. This will ensure even cooking and help absorb the buffalo and ranch flavors in the casserole.

2. Cooking the Chicken and Cauliflower

1. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, add a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with a little salt and pepper, and cook until it’s no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Set aside once cooked.
2. Blanch the Cauliflower (Optional): If you want a softer texture, blanch the cauliflower for 2-3 minutes in boiling water. Drain well before adding to the casserole.

3. Assembling the Casserole

1. Prepare the Creamy Buffalo Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the buffalo sauce, softened cream cheese, and ranch dressing. Stir until smooth and creamy. You may warm the cream cheese slightly to make it easier to mix.
2. Combine the Ingredients: In the mixing bowl, add the cooked chicken, blanched cauliflower, half of the cheddar cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Stir everything together until the cauliflower and chicken are well-coated in the sauce.
3. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly.

4. Baking the Casserole

1. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top of the casserole for a melty, golden finish.
2. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
3. Add Green Onions: Once baked, remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped green onions for a fresh, colorful garnish.

Serving Suggestions

• Garnish Options: Sprinkle crumbled blue cheese, chopped celery, or additional green onions.
• Pairing Ideas: Serve with a simple side salad or some celery sticks for a refreshing crunch.
• Dip: Add a small side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for extra dipping.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Wrap it tightly in foil or place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Recipe Variations

1. Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based chicken substitutes or extra veggies like bell peppers and mushrooms.
2. Extra Creamy: Add a dollop of sour cream or additional cream cheese for an even creamier texture.
3. Spicy: For more heat, add a sprinkle of cayenne or extra buffalo sauce to the mix.
4. Bacon Lover’s Version: Add crumbled cooked bacon for a smoky flavor twist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a great option if you’re short on time. Just shred or dice it and add it directly to the casserole.

Q2: Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Absolutely! The low-carb cauliflower base makes this dish keto-friendly, as it avoids traditional pasta or rice.

Q3: Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q4: How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, use a dairy-free cream cheese substitute and omit the cheese or use dairy-free shredded cheese.

Q5: What other vegetables can I add?

Bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini are great additional veggies for a flavor boost and added nutrients.

Conclusion

This Creamy Buffalo Chicken Cauliflower Casserole offers a low-carb, protein-packed, and flavor-filled dish that’s ideal for buffalo chicken fans. It’s easy to make, rich in taste, and a healthier option compared to traditional casseroles. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this casserole is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Enjoy this cozy, spicy, and creamy delight, whether you’re keto-conscious or simply love comfort food with a kick!

Yield: 6

Creamy Buffalo Chicken Cauliflower Casserole Recipe

Print

Creamy Buffalo Chicken Cauliflower Casserole is a dish that brings together bold buffalo flavors, tender cauliflower, and juicy chicken in a creamy, cheesy casserole. It’s perfect for those looking for a low-carb, high-protein meal that still offers all the comfort of a traditional casserole. With a rich buffalo sauce, melted cheese, and a hint of ranch dressing, this casserole is a surefire crowd-pleaser and ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes

Total Time 45 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
• 1 cup buffalo sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 3 green onions, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or chives, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
   
2. Prepare the Cauliflower:
   Steam or blanch the cauliflower florets until just tender, about 5-7 minutes. Drain well and pat dry to remove excess moisture.
   
3. Mix the Ingredients:
   In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, and ranch or blue cheese dressing. Add the cauliflower florets, tossing to coat evenly. Season with salt and pepper.
   
4. Assemble the Casserole:
   Transfer the cauliflower and chicken mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the top.
   
5. Bake:
   Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
   
6. Garnish and Serve:
   Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped green onions and fresh parsley or chives if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the spicy, creamy goodness!

Notes

Make It Extra Spicy: For added heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce.

Add Crunch: Top with crushed pork rinds or crispy fried onions before baking for extra texture.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.