Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole: 1 Dinner Wonder

Name: Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole: 1 Dinner Wonder
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds chicken breast, cooked and shredded; 20 ounces frozen cauliflower rice; 2 small jalapeños, finely diced, plus more for topping if desired; 1 small white or yellow onion, diced; 1 red pepper, diced; 1/2 cup shredded or finely diced carrots; 1/2 cup canned coconut cream (the thick part at the top of the can); 1/2 cup buffalo sauce; 1/4 cup ranch; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; Optional: green onion, extra jalapeños to garnish

by Jannet Lisa

12 de July de 2025

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Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole has become my ultimate comfort food, especially on those chilly evenings when I crave something hearty and full of flavor. I first stumbled upon a similar recipe years ago, looking for a way to use up leftover chicken, and I immediately knew I had found a winner. The aroma of spicy buffalo sauce mingling with fresh jalapeños and tender chicken fills my kitchen, instantly making my home feel cozy. This isn’t just any spicy buffalo chicken casserole; it’s a creamy, satisfying dish that brings everyone to the table, eager for seconds. It’s truly the best jalapeño buffalo chicken casserole recipe for a simple weeknight meal. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole

I know you’ll fall in love with this recipe, just like I have. It’s truly a game-changer for busy weeknights or when you need a crowd-pleasing dish.

It boasts an incredible balance of spicy and savory, with just the right amount of kick from the jalapeños.
This casserole is surprisingly quick to put together, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
It’s packed with vegetables, offering a healthier spin on a classic comfort food.
You’ll appreciate how budget-friendly this creamy jalapeño chicken bake is, often using ingredients you already have.
My family devours this dish every time; it’s genuinely a hit with both kids and adults.
It’s a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious creamy jalapeño chicken bake throughout the week.

Ingredients for Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole

Gathering your ingredients for this incredible Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole is the first step to a truly satisfying meal. I always make sure I have these on hand for a quick and easy dinner.

2 pounds chicken breast, cooked and shredded – I often use rotisserie chicken for convenience, but any cooked chicken works.
20 ounces frozen cauliflower rice – This adds great bulk and nutrition without extra carbs.
2 small jalapeños, finely diced – Remove seeds for less heat, or leave some in for a spicier kick in your Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Dish.
1 small white or yellow onion, diced – Adds a foundational savory flavor.
1 red pepper, diced – For color and a subtle sweetness.
1/2 cup shredded or finely diced carrots – Boosts the veggie content and adds a touch of sweetness.
1/2 cup canned coconut cream (the thick part at the top of the can) – This is key for the creamy texture, especially for a dairy-free option.
1/2 cup buffalo sauce – Use your favorite brand; I prefer one with a good balance of heat and tang.
1/4 cup ranch – Complements the buffalo flavor perfectly.
1 tablespoon minced garlic – Don’t skip this; it adds so much aromatic depth to this Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Dish.
1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Basic seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
Optional: green onion, extra jalapeños to garnish – For a fresh finish and extra spice.

How to Make Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole

Making this incredible Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole is surprisingly simple, and I promise the delicious aroma filling your kitchen will be worth every moment. Follow these steps for a perfect, flavorful bake every time.

Step 1: First, you’ll want to preheat your oven to a cozy 400°F (200°C). This ensures your casserole bakes evenly and gets that lovely golden finish. While the oven warms, grab your favorite large casserole dish.
Step 2: In that large casserole dish, combine your cooked and shredded chicken breast with the frozen cauliflower rice, finely diced jalapeños, diced onion, red pepper, and shredded carrots. I love seeing all those vibrant colors come together!
Step 3: Now, for the magic sauce! In a separate small bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, coconut cream, buffalo sauce, and ranch dressing. Make sure to combine them really well with a fork until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This is what gives our Chicken Buffalo Jalapeño Casserole Recipe its signature flavor.
Step 4: Pour that luscious sauce mixture over the chicken and vegetable blend in the casserole dish. Then, using two forks or tongs, gently toss everything together. I find it’s best to really get in there and make sure every piece of chicken and every vegetable is coated in that spicy, creamy goodness. Once incorporated, smooth the ingredients into an even layer.
Step 5: Place your dish into the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. You’ll notice the edges start to bubble and turn slightly golden. If you prefer a bit more “crispy” top, you can let it bake for an extra 5-10 minutes, but keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning. This part of the Chicken Buffalo Jalapeño Casserole Recipe is where all the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 6: Once baked to perfection, carefully remove the casserole from the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. For an extra flourish, I like to drizzle a little more buffalo or ranch sauce on top, and sprinkle with optional garnishes like fresh green onion or extra jalapeño slices. Enjoy your homemade Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole!

Pro Tips for the Best Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole

I’ve made this casserole countless times, and I’ve picked up a few tricks that truly elevate it from good to absolutely amazing. These pro tips will help you achieve the best Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole every time.

For the creamiest texture, ensure your coconut cream is at room temperature or gently warmed so it blends seamlessly.
Don’t be afraid to adjust the spice level! If you love heat, add an extra diced jalapeño or a dash more buffalo sauce. If you prefer it milder, remove all the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños.
Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking. This allows the ingredients to set, making it easier to serve and preventing it from falling apart.

Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole - detail 2

What’s the secret to perfect Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole?

The real secret lies in balancing the creamy base with the bold buffalo flavor and fresh jalapeño kick. Using full-fat coconut cream and ensuring all ingredients are well-combined results in a cohesive and flavorful dish that truly makes this the best Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole recipe.

Can I make Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time if you’re putting it into the oven cold from the fridge.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole?

First, avoid overmixing the ingredients, which can make the chicken tough. Second, don’t skimp on the seasonings; taste as you go! Finally, ensure your oven is fully preheated to get that perfect bake and avoid a soggy casserole.

Best Ways to Serve Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole

Once your incredible Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole is out of the oven, it’s time to think about how to serve it up for maximum enjoyment. I love how versatile this dish is, making it perfect for a variety of meals.

For a complete and hearty dinner, I often pair it with a simple side salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. The crisp freshness of the greens provides a wonderful contrast to the rich, creamy casserole. Another fantastic option is a side of roasted broccoli or green beans, which adds more vegetables and a lovely texture.

If you’re looking for something a bit heartier, especially on a colder evening, a scoop of fluffy white rice or even some quinoa makes a great base. This helps soak up all that delicious sauce from your spicy buffalo chicken casserole. Don’t forget an extra drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing on top for an added layer of flavor!

Nutrition Facts for Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole

Per serving (recipe makes 6 servings):

Calories: Not available
Protein: Not available
Fat: Not available
Saturated Fat: Not available
Carbohydrates: Not available
Fiber: Not available
Sugar: Not available
Sodium: Not available

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used in your Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole.

How to Store and Reheat Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole

One of the best things about this Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole is how well it stores, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying leftovers. Once your casserole has cooled completely to room temperature, transfer any remaining portions into airtight containers. I find glass containers work best for maintaining freshness.

This delicious casserole will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions or the entire casserole for up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s in a freezer-safe container or tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

When you’re ready to enjoy your meal prep spicy chicken casserole again, simply reheat it in the microwave until warmed through, or for a crispier result, pop it back into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot and bubbly. This easy reheating makes weeknight dinners a breeze!

Frequently Asked Questions About Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole

Can I use a different type of chicken in this Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole?

Yes, absolutely! While shredded chicken breast is my go-to for this Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole, you can easily substitute it with cooked and shredded chicken thighs for a richer flavor, or even ground chicken or turkey. Just make sure whatever chicken you use is cooked through before adding it to the casserole dish.

How can I adjust the spice level of my Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole?

Adjusting the spice in this Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole is simple. For less heat, remove all seeds and white membranes from the jalapeños before dicing, or use fewer jalapeños. For more heat, you can leave some seeds in, add an extra diced jalapeño, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce. It’s an easy Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole to customize!

What are some good substitutions for the coconut cream in this recipe?

If you don’t have coconut cream or prefer a dairy option, full-fat cream cheese (softened) or plain Greek yogurt can work as substitutes to maintain the creamy texture. For a non-dairy alternative, some unsweetened cashew cream or a thicker plant-based milk thickened with a bit of cornstarch could also be used in your Easy Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole.

Is this Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole suitable for meal prepping?

Yes, it’s fantastic for meal prepping! This Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole holds up wonderfully in the refrigerator for several days, and it freezes well too. I often make a large batch on Sunday to enjoy for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week. It’s truly an easy Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole that keeps giving.

Variations of Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole You Can Try

While the classic Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole recipe is fantastic as is, I love experimenting with variations to suit different tastes or dietary needs. It’s truly a versatile dish!

Cheesy Indulgence: For those who aren’t concerned about dairy, stirring in 1 cup of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese with the sauce mixture before baking adds an extra layer of creamy, melty goodness. This makes it an even richer Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole.
Extra Veggie Boost: Feel free to add other finely diced vegetables like celery, bell peppers of different colors, or even some spinach (wring out excess water) for even more nutrients and texture. This is a great way to sneak in extra greens.
Spice Level Up: If you’re a true heat seeker, consider adding a few dashes of ghost pepper or habanero hot sauce to the buffalo mixture, or sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the top before baking.
Different Proteins: Instead of chicken, you could try using shredded pork or even ground turkey for a different flavor profile. For a delicious low carb buffalo chicken casserole, ensure all your additions align with your dietary goals.