Description

Creamy Buffalo Chicken Cauliflower Casserole combines spicy buffalo-flavored chicken and tender cauliflower in a rich, cheesy, creamy casserole. This low-carb, high-protein dish features a blend of buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, and melted cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, making it a comforting, flavorful meal perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
3 green onions, chopped
Fresh parsley or chives, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Proteins

2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced

Dairy & Dressings

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

Seasonings & Others

Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon oil (for cooking chicken)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375-400°F (190-200°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with non-stick cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking.
Prepare the Cauliflower: Rinse and chop the cauliflower into small, bite-sized florets for even cooking. Optionally, blanch the florets in boiling water for 2-3 minutes to soften, then drain well and pat dry to remove excess moisture.
Cook the Chicken: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken seasoned lightly with salt and pepper. Cook until no longer pink inside, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Make the Creamy Buffalo Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine buffalo sauce, softened cream cheese (optional warming for easier mixing), and ranch dressing. Whisk or stir until smooth and creamy.
Combine the Ingredients: To the sauce, add the cooked chicken, blanched cauliflower, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Stir gently until all ingredients are well coated with the creamy buffalo sauce.
Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top to create a melty cheese crust.
Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly, melted, and lightly golden on top.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and sprinkle chopped green onions and fresh parsley or chives over the top for a fresh, colorful garnish. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, spicy flavors.

Notes

Make It Extra Spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or extra buffalo sauce for intensified heat.
Add Crunch: Top with crushed pork rinds or crispy fried onions before baking for a texture contrast.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: Wrap tightly or place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes or reheat the whole casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Variations: Use plant-based chicken for a vegetarian version; add extra sour cream for creaminess; include additional veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms; add crumbled bacon for smoky flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: buffalo chicken casserole, cauliflower casserole, low carb casserole, keto dinner, creamy buffalo chicken, cheesy buffalo casserole, spicy chicken dish, healthy comfort food