Buffalo Chicken Casserole is the kind of dish that makes everyone gather around the table.
It brings together the rich flavors of buffalo sauce and creamy textures, all wrapped up in a comforting pasta bake.
Whether you’re serving up a weeknight dinner for the family or feeding a crowd for game day, this casserole is sure to be a hit! Plus, it’s packed with protein from the chicken and a hearty serving of carbs from the pasta.
Let’s dive into how to make this delicious dish that everyone will be talking about.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
This Buffalo Chicken Casserole is a perfect blend of spicy and creamy, making it incredibly satisfying.
It has all the flavors you love from buffalo wings, but in a more comforting, casserole form.
The creamy ranch dressing complements the spicy buffalo sauce beautifully, creating a layer of flavor that will leave your taste buds tingling.
Not only that, but it’s easy to prepare and can be customized to fit your preferences.
It’s a fantastic choice for meal prep or hearty family dinners!
Ingredients
- 1 pound (450 g) dried pasta Penne or other short pasta
- 2 pounds (900 g) skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
- 1 cup (240 ml) buffalo wing sauce
- ½ cup (120 ml) ranch dressing
- ½ cup (120 ml) milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (112 g) shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup (67 g) crumbled blue cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ cup (30 g) panko breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup (21 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- Additional crumbled blue cheese for garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
How To Make Buffalo Chicken Casserole
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions.
Make sure to salt the water generously! Once it’s al dente, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, buffalo wing sauce, ranch dressing, milk, sautéed onion and garlic, and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
Season with salt and black pepper, then fold everything together until well mixed.
Step 4: Mix the Pasta
Gently add the cooked pasta into the mixing bowl with the buffalo chicken mixture.
Stir until the pasta is fully coated with the delicious sauce.
Step 5: Prepare for Baking
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Pour the buffalo chicken and pasta mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
Spread it evenly, and then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese, crumbled blue cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and grated Parmesan cheese on top for that golden, crispy finish.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is lightly golden.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Garnish with extra crumbled blue cheese and chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Then dig in and enjoy the creamy, spicy goodness of your Buffalo Chicken Casserole!
Expert Tips
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in buffalo sauce for a few hours before cooking.
- If you like it spicier, add some chopped jalapeños or cayenne pepper.
- To save time, you can use a rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own chicken.
- Feel free to add in some vegetables, like spinach or bell peppers, for added nutrition.
Variations and Customizations
- Use cheddar cheese instead of mozzarella for a different cheesy flavor.
- Swap out the buffalo sauce for BBQ sauce for a sweeter twist.
- Try using quinoa or another grain instead of pasta for a gluten-free version.
- Top with crushed tortilla chips instead of panko breadcrumbs for a fun crunch.
How to Store Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave or in a preheated oven until warmed through.
If it seems a little dry, a splash of milk can help bring back the creaminess!
FAQ
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking point, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking it straight from the fridge.
Is this buffalo chicken casserole spicy?
It has a nice kick from the buffalo sauce, but you can adjust the amount of sauce based on your spice tolerance.
If you’re sensitive to heat, start with less buffalo sauce and taste as you mix.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! While blue cheese and mozzarella work wonderfully in this recipe, feel free to experiment with your favorite cheese varieties.
Cheddar, gouda, or even pepper jack could be great options!
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole! Before baking, cover it tightly and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking, and then follow the baking instructions.
Conclusion
There you have it! A warm, cheesy, and utterly delicious Buffalo Chicken Casserole that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet fancy enough for gatherings, making it a versatile recipe to have in your back pocket.
Next time you’re feeling a little adventurous in the kitchen, whip up this casserole and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Your family and friends will thank you for it—and you might just have a new favorite dish in your repertoire!
