Calling all buffalo chicken fans! This Buffalo Chicken Casserole is a flavor explosion that will satisfy your cravings. We’re talking tender chicken, creamy buffalo sauce, and melty cheese, all baked to bubbly perfection. It’s the perfect dish for game day, potlucks, or any night you’re craving something bold and delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor Bomb: This casserole is packed with the irresistible flavors of buffalo chicken wings, but in a convenient and comforting casserole form.
- Easy to Customize: Adjust the heat level, add your favorite toppings, and make it your own!
- Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is guaranteed to be a hit with everyone, from spice lovers to those who prefer a milder kick.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this flavor-packed casserole:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: We’ll cook and shred these for the base of the casserole.
- Bacon: Because everything is better with bacon!
- Penne pasta: Or your favorite pasta shape.
- Buffalo wing sauce: Use your favorite brand and adjust the amount to your heat preference.
- Cream cheese: Adds a creamy richness to the sauce.
- Ranch dressing: A classic pairing with buffalo chicken.
- Greek yogurt: Adds a tangy twist and a boost of protein.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: For that classic cheesy goodness.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds a gooey melt.
- Garlic powder: Enhances the savory flavors.
- Onion powder: Adds depth of flavor.
- Smoked paprika: A touch of smoky sweetness.
- Salt: To taste.
- Black pepper: To taste.
- Green onions: Sliced for garnish.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Casserole
Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Cook the pasta according to package directions. While the pasta is cooking, sear the chicken breasts in a skillet, then add water, cover, and cook until fully cooked. Shred the chicken.
Step 2: Make the Buffalo Sauce Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the buffalo wing sauce, cream cheese, ranch dressing, Greek yogurt, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Step 3: Cook the Bacon
Cook the bacon slices in a skillet until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
In a baking dish, spread the shredded chicken and cooked pasta evenly. Pour the buffalo sauce mixture over the chicken and pasta. Top with the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, then sprinkle with the crumbled bacon. Bake until bubbly and golden brown.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with sliced green onions and serve with an extra drizzle of buffalo sauce and ranch dressing, if desired.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use rotisserie chicken: For a shortcut, use store-bought rotisserie chicken.
- Adjust the heat: Use more or less buffalo wing sauce to control the spiciness.
- Add veggies: Mix in some chopped celery or carrots for extra nutrients and crunch.
How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Casserole
- Game Day Feast: This casserole is perfect for game day gatherings or potlucks.
- Weeknight Dinner: Serve with a side salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Leftover Love: Enjoy it cold or reheat it for lunch the next day.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating
Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any pasta shape will work in this recipe.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and bake it later.
Can I freeze this casserole?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it before baking.
How can I make this casserole spicier?
Use a hotter buffalo wing sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce mixture.
There you have it! A delicious and easy recipe for Buffalo Chicken Casserole that’s sure to be a hit with everyone. Enjoy!
Print
Buffalo Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Buffalo Chicken Casserole is a crowd-pleasing, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for game day or a weeknight meal. It features tender chicken, penne pasta, a creamy buffalo sauce, and plenty of cheese, all topped with crispy bacon.
Ingredients
Produce
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Protein
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 slices bacon
Pantry
- 8 ounces penne pasta (or your favorite variety)
- 1 cup buffalo wing sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Dairy
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 3/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Cook Pasta: Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook pasta according to package directions.
- Make Buffalo Sauce Mixture: In a large bowl, combine buffalo wing sauce, cream cheese, ranch dressing, Greek yogurt, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Cook Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and sear for 3-4 minutes per side. Add ½ cup water, cover, and cook until chicken reaches 165°F. Shred chicken.
- Cook Bacon: Cook bacon in a skillet until crispy. Drain and crumble.
- Assemble Casserole: In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread shredded chicken and cooked pasta evenly. Pour buffalo sauce mixture over the chicken and pasta. Top with shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, then sprinkle with crumbled bacon.
- Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with sliced green onions. Serve with extra buffalo sauce and ranch dressing, if desired.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of buffalo wing sauce to your spice preference.
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker and easier meal.
- Thick-cut bacon adds a nice texture and flavor to the casserole.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a lower-fat option, use reduced-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Serving
- Calories: 650kcal
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 40g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 45g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
