Description
This Creamy Buffalo Chicken Casserole is a flavorful keto and Whole30-friendly dish combining shredded chicken with spicy buffalo sauce, cauliflower rice, and savory seasonings. Topped with melted cheese for a comforting texture, it's a delicious low-carb casserole perfect for quick weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
Chicken Mixture
- 2.5 lbs cooked shredded chicken breast (about 4 cups)
- 1/2 cup Franks Hot Sauce (or buffalo sauce of choice)
- 2 tbsp dairy-free ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup mayo
- 1/2 cup chopped white onion
- 1/3 cup banana peppers
- 1/3 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 2 1/2 tbsp nutritional yeast
Vegetables & Rice
- 3 1/2 cups cauliflower rice (raw, moisture squeezed out)
Toppings (Optional)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (dairy-free or regular; omit if Whole30 or paleo)
- 2 tbsp ranch dressing
- 2 tbsp Franks Hot Sauce
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with cooking spray to prepare for baking.
- Mix Chicken and Sauces: In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, mayo, chopped green onions, spices, banana peppers, and chopped yellow onions. Stir thoroughly so all ingredients are evenly coated with the sauce and seasonings.
- Prepare Cauliflower Rice: If using frozen cauliflower rice, cook it first and wrap it in a cheesecloth to squeeze out excess moisture. This step prevents the casserole from becoming too wet and ensures it will set properly. Fresh cauliflower rice is recommended if available.
- Combine Cauliflower & Chicken: Add the prepared cauliflower rice to the chicken mixture and stir together until the mixture is evenly combined. Transfer this mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it out in an even layer.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole if using. This adds a creamy, melted topping during baking.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
- Cool and Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with additional ranch dressing drizzled on top, buffalo sauce, and extra sliced green onions before serving for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Ensure cauliflower rice is well drained to avoid a soggy casserole.
- Use fresh cauliflower rice for the best texture if possible.
- Omit cheese and use dairy-free alternatives to keep the recipe Whole30 or paleo compliant.
- This casserole can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for meal prep.
- Adjust buffalo sauce amount to taste for desired spice level.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
