Who here is a fan of buffalo chicken? If you’re like me, there’s something about that bold, tangy heat paired with creamy, cheesy goodness that’s just irresistible. Now, imagine all of that flavor packed into a hearty, crowd-pleasing casserole.
This Buffalo Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for game days, family dinners, or anytime you’re craving something spicy and satisfying. Plus, it’s loaded with juicy chicken, crispy bacon, gooey cheese, and just the right kick of heat — what’s not to love?
Why You’ll Love This Casserole
- Perfect Comfort Food – Hearty potatoes, juicy chicken, and gooey cheese make for the ultimate comfort dish.
- Packed with Flavor – The buffalo sauce adds the right amount of heat without overwhelming the creamy, cheesy goodness.
- One-Pan Meal – Fewer dishes mean less cleanup, and who doesn’t love that?
- Family-Friendly – Customize the spice level to fit your family’s taste.
- Meal-Prep Friendly – Makes great leftovers and reheats beautifully.
Buffalo Chicken Casserole Recipe
For this delicious chicken casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Ingredients
- 2.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts – Lean and hearty, these form the protein-packed base of the casserole.
- 10 medium potatoes – Adds a starchy, comforting layer that soaks up all the flavors.
- 2 1/2 cups Mexican blend cheese – Melty, gooey goodness that ties all the flavors together.
- 1 1/2 cup crumbled cooked bacon – Smoky and salty, bacon adds a crunchy contrast.
- 1 1⁄2 teaspoons salt – Enhances the natural flavors of the dish.
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder – Adds a rich, aromatic layer of flavor.
- 1⁄3 cup olive oil – Helps to crisp the potatoes and melds the spices.
- 5 1/2 tablespoons hot sauce – The star ingredient for that signature buffalo kick.
- 1 tablespoon fresh ground pepper – Balances the heat with a peppery bite.
- 1 tablespoon paprika – Adds a mild smokiness and a pop of color.
- 1 cup diced green onion – Provides a fresh, zesty finish.
Optional Add-Ons
- Blue cheese crumbles – For an extra tangy bite.
- Ranch dressing drizzle – Helps mellow out the heat.
- Chopped celery – Adds a fresh crunch.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – To toss all the ingredients together.
- 9×13-inch baking dish – Perfect size for even cooking.
- Sharp knife – For precise chopping of potatoes and chicken.
- Cutting board – Keeps prep organized and clean.
- Aluminum foil – To cover the dish and prevent over-browning.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Buffalo Chicken Casserole
1. Prep the Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 450°F. Dice the chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes and the potatoes into small chunks. This ensures even cooking and perfect forkfuls every time.
2. Season and Toss
In a large bowl, toss the diced potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until well coated. Spread them evenly in the baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes until they roast.
3. Add the Chicken
While the potatoes are baking, season the diced chicken with salt, pepper, and half the hot sauce. After the potatoes have baked, layer the chicken over them.
4. Add the Cheese and Bacon
Sprinkle the Mexican blend cheese generously over the chicken, followed by crumbled bacon. This layer of cheesy, crispy goodness ties everything together.
5. Bake It All Together
Cover the dish with foil and bake for another 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes to melt and slightly brown the cheese.
6. Garnish and Serve
Drizzle the remaining hot sauce over the casserole, sprinkle with diced green onions, and serve hot. Add blue cheese crumbles or ranch drizzle if desired.
Best Paired With
- Crispy celery sticks – For a cooling crunch.
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing – To drizzle or dip.
- A side salad – Balances out the richness with something light and fresh.
Storage and Serving
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
- Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Tips for Success
- Cut potatoes uniformly for even cooking.
- Adjust spice levels by increasing or decreasing the hot sauce.
- Use pre-cooked bacon to save prep time.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to help it set.
Substitutes and Variations
- Swap chicken for turkey if you prefer a leaner option.
- Use sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor.
- Add veggies like bell peppers or broccoli for extra nutrients.
- Use Monterey Jack cheese if you want a milder flavor.
Nutritional Breakdown
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
| Calories | 520 |
| Protein | 38g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Fat | 28g |
| Saturated Fat | 10g |
| Cholesterol | 105mg |
| Sodium | 890mg |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 2g |
What Others Are Saying About The Recipe
Donny T. – “I love how hearty this dish is. I swapped the hot sauce for a milder one, and it was still delicious. Plus, the leftovers were even better the next day!”
Sophie L. – “Super easy to make and full of flavor. The crispy potatoes and gooey cheese are a match made in heaven. Will definitely make this again.”
Brandon K. – “I’m a huge buffalo chicken fan, and this casserole nailed it. The bacon really takes it over the top. Highly recommend!”
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prep the casserole the night before and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely. It’s a great time-saver—just shred it and toss it with the hot sauce before adding it to the casserole.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, ensure your hot sauce and bacon are gluten-free, and you’re good to go.
Final Thoughts
If you’re someone who can’t resist the zingy, spicy goodness of buffalo chicken, this casserole is about to become your new favorite. It’s hearty, packed with bold flavors, and incredibly easy to make. So, roll up your sleeves, get your casserole dish ready, and dive into this cheesy, bacon-loaded buffalo chicken goodness. You’re going to love every bite!