Buffalo Chicken Cauliflower Casserole

$- 1 head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets - 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded - 1/2 cup buffalo sauce - 1 cup plain Greek yogurt - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional) - Seasonings: garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper - 1/4 cup sliced green onions for garnish This dish starts with fresh cauliflower. I love using it because it adds a nice crunch. You can cut it into bite-sized pieces. This step is key for even cooking. Next, we need cooked chicken. Shredded chicken works best. You can use leftover chicken or buy rotisserie chicken. It saves time and tastes great. Buffalo sauce gives this casserole its kick. Adjust the amount based on your spice level. If you like it hot, add more. Plain Greek yogurt replaces sour cream. It makes the dish creamy. It’s a healthy twist and adds protein. Cheddar cheese is a must for that melty goodness. You can also sprinkle on some blue cheese if you want a stronger flavor. Seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika give depth. Don’t forget salt and pepper to taste. Lastly, garnish with green onions. They add color and a fresh taste. This mix of ingredients creates a rich and savory casserole. Each bite will be packed with flavor. {{ingredient_image_2}} - Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is key for even cooking. - Next, steam the cauliflower florets. Place them in a steamer basket over boiling water. Steam them for about 5-7 minutes. They should be tender but still firm. Once done, drain and let them cool. - In a large bowl, mix the cooked chicken and buffalo sauce. Add the Greek yogurt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well until the chicken is coated in the sauce. - Gently fold in the steamed cauliflower florets into the chicken mixture. Make sure to keep the cauliflower intact. - Now, transfer the entire mixture into a greased 9x13-inch casserole dish. Spread it evenly for uniform cooking. - Top the casserole with shredded cheddar cheese. If you like blue cheese, sprinkle that on too. - Place the casserole in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Look for melted cheese that is bubbly and golden brown. - After baking, take the casserole out of the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes. Before serving, sprinkle sliced green onions on top for added color and flavor. - Adjusting the spice level in buffalo sauce You can make the dish milder or spicier. If you want it hot, add more buffalo sauce. If you prefer it mild, use less. Taste as you go to find your sweet spot. - Using rotisserie chicken for convenience Using rotisserie chicken saves you time. Just shred it and mix it in. This way, you skip the cooking step and get great flavor right away. - Choosing the right cheese combinations Cheddar cheese adds a nice sharp taste. Blue cheese gives bold flavor. You can mix them for a delicious combo. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorites! - Serving suggestions with side dishes Serve the casserole hot and fresh. Pair it with crunchy celery sticks or a light salad. This adds a nice crunch and makes your meal feel balanced. - Garnishing with green onions Sprinkle sliced green onions on top before serving. They add a fresh touch and a pop of color. This simple step makes your dish look more appealing. - Using pre-cooked chicken You can save time by using pre-cooked chicken. Just make sure it's shredded well. This way, you cut down on prep time and still enjoy great taste. - Steaming cauliflower efficiently Use a steamer basket over boiling water. Steam the cauliflower for 5-7 minutes. This keeps it tender but firm, ready to mix into your casserole without getting mushy. Pro Tips Choose Your Chicken Wisely: Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver, but make sure to choose a flavorful variety to enhance the overall taste of your casserole. Mind the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce based on your spice tolerance. You can always start with less and add more if needed! Perfectly Cooked Cauliflower: Avoid overcooking the cauliflower while steaming; it should be tender but still hold its shape for the best texture in your casserole. Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for an extra kick or mozzarella for a milder flavor, depending on your preference. {{image_4}} You can easily swap the cauliflower with broccoli. Broccoli gives a nice crunch and taste. It also cooks well in this dish. Using different types of cheese can change the flavor. Try Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicy kick. A blend of cheeses can also add depth. For gluten-free options, ensure your buffalo sauce is gluten-free. Most brands are, but always check labels. You can also make this dish dairy-free. Use a dairy-free yogurt and cheese. These swaps keep the flavors while fitting dietary needs. Want to add more veggies? Spinach and bell peppers work great. They add color and nutrients. You can also add herbs or spices for extra flavor. Try oregano or thyme to enhance the taste. A pinch of cayenne can also up the spice level. To keep your buffalo chicken cauliflower casserole fresh, store it in a sealed container. Make sure it cools to room temperature first. Place it in the fridge for up to four days. For longer storage, you can freeze it. Wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe container. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. When it's time to eat your leftovers, you want them warm and tasty. The best way to reheat is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes. This keeps the texture nice. You can also use a microwave, but the oven works better for keeping the cheese gooey. In the fridge, your casserole lasts about four days. If you freeze it, the shelf life extends to about three months. Just remember to label your containers with the date. That way, you know when to enjoy it! Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower for this recipe. It saves time and is convenient. Just make sure to thaw the cauliflower before using it in the casserole. You can steam it briefly to ensure it is tender. This way, it will blend well with the other ingredients. The spice level depends on the buffalo sauce you choose. If you like it hot, use a spicy sauce. For a milder flavor, opt for a mild buffalo sauce. You can always adjust the amount of sauce to suit your taste. This makes it great for everyone at the table. Yes, you can prepare this casserole ahead of time. Mix all the ingredients and store them in the fridge. Just remember to bake it when you're ready. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. I love serving this casserole with crunchy celery sticks or a light salad. They provide a nice contrast to the rich flavors of the dish. You can also add some ranch dressing for dipping. It enhances the meal and adds a delicious touch. Absolutely! This casserole is great for meal prep. It keeps well in the fridge and is easy to reheat. You can portion it out into containers for quick meals. Just store it in the fridge for up to four days. It’s a tasty and healthy option for any day of the week. This blog post covers a tasty buffalo chicken cauliflower casserole. We explored key ingredients, easy steps to prepare it, and tips to enhance flavors. I shared variations for different diets and highlighted storage methods. This dish is simple, quick, and great for any meal. You can also customize it to fit your taste. Enjoy making this casserole and share it with friends and family. It’s a fun and delicious way to mix flavors and nutrients!$

Buffalo Chicken Cauliflower Casserole

A spicy and creamy casserole featuring tender cauliflower and shredded chicken, topped with melted cheese.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 25

Total Time 50

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

1 head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
0.5 cup buffalo sauce
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
0.5 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
0.5 teaspoon paprika
to taste salt and freshly cracked black pepper
0.25 cup sliced green onions for garnish

Instructions

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Meanwhile, steam the cauliflower florets in a steamer basket over boiling water until they are tender yet still maintain some firmness, approximately 5-7 minutes. Once done, drain and set aside to cool slightly.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, Greek yogurt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and season generously with salt and pepper. Stir everything together until all the ingredients are well blended and the chicken is fully coated in the mixture.
Carefully fold in the steamed cauliflower florets into the chicken mixture until they are evenly incorporated. Be gentle to keep the cauliflower intact.
Transfer the entire mixture into a greased 9x13-inch casserole dish, spreading it out evenly for uniform cooking.
Top the casserole with an even layer of shredded cheddar cheese, followed by the blue cheese crumbles, if you choose to add them.
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and has turned a lovely golden brown.
After baking, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Before serving, sprinkle with sliced green onions for a fresh pop of color and flavor.

Notes

Serve hot with crunchy celery sticks or a light green salad.

Keyword buffalo chicken, casserole, cauliflower, comfort food