Creamy Buffalo Chicken Cauliflower

This Creamy Buffalo Chicken Cauliflower Casserole is a true comfort dish packed with spicy tangy flavors while staying lower in carbs. It is hearty enough for a cozy dinner and comes together in under an hour. The mix of tender cauliflower with creamy buffalo sauce juicy chicken and gooey cheese is always a hit with family and friends. I reach for this recipe when I want those buffalo wings cravings satisfied but crave something more wholesome in casserole form.

This casserole quickly became a regular in my meal prep rotation. Even my picky eaters dig in without complaint and I always get asked for the recipe when bringing it to potlucks.

Ingredients

• Cauliflower florets: The base that lightens up the dish Opt for heads with tightly packed white florets and fresh green leaves
• Cooked shredded chicken: Breasts work well for a lean texture Use rotisserie chicken for extra flavor and convenience
• Buffalo sauce: Provides spicy tangy punch Look for one with real cayenne for best flavor
• Ranch or blue cheese dressing: Adds a creamy cooling balance Choose a quality thick dressing for richness
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Gives a sharp flavor and melty top Freshly shredding your own melts best
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Creates gooey stretch and balances the sharpness of cheddar
• Green onions: For a fresh savory finish Pick bright unblemished stalks
• Salt and pepper: For seasoning and bringing out flavors
• Fresh parsley or chives: Adds color and a gentle herby note Use for garnish if desired

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Warm your oven to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit two hundred degrees Celsius and coat your baking dish with a light layer of oil to keep the casserole from sticking

Prepare the Cauliflower:

Steam or blanch cauliflower florets for about five to seven minutes until just tender Drain thoroughly and pat with a towel so your sauce does not become watery

Mix the Ingredients:

In a broad bowl stir together shredded chicken buffalo sauce and your chosen dressing Toss in the cauliflower so it is all evenly coated Sprinkle with salt and pepper to your taste

Assemble the Casserole:

Arrange the chicken and cauliflower mix evenly in your baking dish Layer cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the top for that perfect melt

Bake:

Set your casserole in the oven and bake for about twenty to twenty five minutes until the cheese bubbles and the sauce thickens slightly around the edges

Garnish and Serve:

When it comes out of the oven top with green onions and a sprinkle of parsley or chives for a lively finish Scoop it out while hot to enjoy the creamy spicy goodness

Pin

One of my favorite memories with this casserole was the time my daughter declared it tastes just like wings but way better since you can eat it with a fork I also especially love the punch that quality buffalo sauce brings and always keep a few brands on hand to suit different spice levels

Storage tips

Let leftovers cool fully before transferring to an airtight container This casserole will stay fresh in the fridge for three days For longer storage you can freeze single portions and reheat covered in the oven for best results It keeps its texture better than many creamy casseroles

Ingredient substitutions

Swap rotisserie chicken for turkey or even cooked tofu for a vegetarian spin Use Greek yogurt mixed with seasonings as a lighter dressing alternative or a dairy-free cheese blend to make it lactose-free If you miss bread crumbs top with crushed pork rinds for crunch

Serving suggestions

Serve alongside crisp celery sticks or a cool cucumber salad for a true buffalo wing vibe A side of cornbread or a big green salad rounds out the meal and balances the heat nicely This casserole is also fantastic as a next-day lunch

Cultural context

This recipe pulls from classic American buffalo chicken culture born in Buffalo New York in the nineteen sixties You get all the spicy cheesy satisfaction of wing night in an easy family-style bake making it perfect for game days and gatherings

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of chicken works best?

Cooked, shredded chicken breast is ideal, but rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken thighs also work nicely for a richer taste.

→ Can I use a different sauce instead of buffalo?

Absolutely, barbecue sauce or a mild hot sauce can be substituted for a different flavor profile while maintaining creamy texture.

→ How do I add extra crunch on top?

Before baking, sprinkle crushed pork rinds, crispy fried onions, or crushed tortilla chips on the casserole for added texture.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep or leftovers?

Yes, store portions in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

→ Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Substitute the chicken with canned chickpeas or cubed tofu for a vegetarian version while retaining bold flavors and creamy richness.

→ How can I adjust the spice level?

Control heat by using a mild buffalo sauce, reducing sauce quantity, or adding extra hot sauce or red pepper flakes for more kick.