If you love bold flavors and crave a dish that brings both comfort and a little kick, then you are going to adore this Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole Recipe. It combines tender shredded chicken, spicy buffalo sauce, and creamy coconut cream all baked together with fresh jalapeños and cauliflower for a dish that’s rich, satisfying, and loaded with excitement in every bite. Whether you are looking for a weeknight dinner with a twist or a crowd-pleasing meal to share, this casserole hits all the notes of warmth, spice, and wholesome goodness you want on your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe comes together beautifully with simple, approachable ingredients that each play a vital role in the final dish’s balance of flavors and textures. From the juicy shredded chicken to the subtle creaminess of coconut cream, every element enhances the savory and spicy profile of the casserole.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Rotisserie chicken is an easy, flavorful shortcut that makes this dish simple and fast.
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets: Adds a tender bite and bulk without heaviness, perfect for a feel-good casserole.
- 1 cup coconut cream or unsweetened canned coconut milk: Brings creaminess and a subtle sweetness that balances the heat.
- ½ cup buffalo sauce (Whole30 compliant): This gives the casserole its signature spicy, tangy Buffalo flavor kick.
- 2 jalapeños, thinly sliced: Fresh jalapeños introduce a crisp heat and vibrant burst of color.
- ½ cup nutritional yeast (or shredded cheese if not dairy-free): Adds depth and a cheesy note that’s essential for that rich casserole feel.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: For a subtle savory boost that ties everything together.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the overall flavor profile with a touch of sweetness and aroma.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To season perfectly and bring out each ingredient’s flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil: Helps roast the cauliflower beautifully and carries the flavors throughout.
- ¼ cup chopped green onions for garnish: Adds freshness and a pop of color at the end.
How to Make Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Roast the Cauliflower
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cauliflower florets in olive or avocado oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet and roast for about 20 minutes until they’re nicely browned and tender. Roasting develops a sweet, nutty flavor that adds a perfect texture contrast in the casserole.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce and Chicken
While the cauliflower roasts, combine the coconut cream, buffalo sauce, and shredded chicken in a large bowl. Stir well to ensure every chicken shred is coated in that spicy, creamy buffalo blend. This mixture is the heart of the casserole, offering both heat and richness.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Once the cauliflower is out of the oven and cooled slightly, fold it gently into the buffalo chicken mixture along with half of the sliced jalapeños and nutritional yeast or cheese. The cheese or nutritional yeast adds a lovely binding property and that unmistakable savory bite.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
Transfer everything into a greased casserole dish, spread evenly, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 to 20 minutes. This will melt the cheese (if using dairy) and allow all flavors to meld beautifully. The jalapeños remaining on top will roast slightly for an added kick with every bite.
How to Serve Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle the chopped green onions over the baked casserole just before serving. Their fresh crunch and mild onion flavor brighten the dish and add a lovely green color that’s inviting and appetizing.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad or steamed veggies to balance the spicy richness. You could also offer some crusty bread or corn tortillas for scooping up those delicious buffalo flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this casserole in individual ramekins topped with extra jalapeño slices and a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing. It’s perfect for gatherings where smaller portions let everyone enjoy it fresh from the oven.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole Recipe stores perfectly in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it even tastier as leftovers.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole either pre-baked or after baking. If freezing before baking, cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months, then bake directly from frozen, adding extra baking time. Pre-baked leftovers should be cooled completely before freezing well-sealed.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. For a quicker option, microwave individual portions on medium power, stirring halfway for even heating.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! If you prefer, cook and shred chicken breast, then toss it in your buffalo sauce and coconut cream mixture. Rotisserie chicken just adds a convenient time-saver and extra flavor.
Is there a way to make this casserole less spicy?
If you want to tone down the heat, reduce the amount of buffalo sauce and jalapeños or remove the seeds from the jalapeños before slicing. You can also add more coconut cream to mellow the spice.
Can this casserole be made dairy-free?
Yes! Using coconut cream and nutritional yeast keeps this dish dairy-free and Whole30 compliant. If you prefer cheese, feel free to substitute with your favorite shredded cheese for a richer flavor.
What can I substitute for cauliflower?
Broccoli florets or cooked shredded cabbage can be great alternatives, offering similar texture and nutritional value while blending nicely with the spicy buffalo flavors.
How spicy is the Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole Recipe?
It has a moderate heat level thanks to the buffalo sauce and fresh jalapeños. You can always adjust the spice by using milder buffalo sauce or fewer jalapeños according to your taste.
Final Thoughts
This Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole Recipe is truly a showstopper that never fails to impress with its combination of creamy, spicy, and savory elements. It’s a fantastic way to bring a little excitement to mealtime without a ton of fuss. So gather your ingredients, turn on your oven, and get ready to fall in love with this dish that’s as comforting as it is flavorful. You won’t regret giving it a try!
Print
Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4.4 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole is a flavorful, low-carb, gluten-free dish combining tender shredded chicken, spicy buffalo sauce, and creamy cauliflower, baked to perfection with a hint of heat from fresh jalapeños. It’s a comforting yet healthy meal perfect for dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients
Protein & Vegetables
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 jalapeños, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup chopped green onions for garnish
Sauce & Seasonings
- 1 cup coconut cream or unsweetened canned coconut milk
- ½ cup buffalo sauce (Whole30 compliant)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese & Oils
- ½ cup nutritional yeast (or shredded cheese if not dairy-free)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Prepare Cauliflower: In a large mixing bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with the olive or avocado oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Roast Cauliflower: Spread the seasoned cauliflower on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes until tender and slightly browned.
- Mix Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the coconut cream (or coconut milk) with the buffalo sauce and nutritional yeast, mixing well to create a creamy, spicy sauce.
- Combine Ingredients: In a casserole dish, mix the roasted cauliflower, shredded chicken, sliced jalapeños, and the buffalo sauce mixture, ensuring all components are well incorporated.
- Bake Casserole: Place the casserole dish in the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes to let the flavors meld and the dish heat through thoroughly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle chopped green onions over the top, and serve warm for the best taste experience.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add flavor.
- Adjust the number of jalapeños according to your preferred spice level.
- For a dairy version, substitute nutritional yeast with shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella.
- This dish is Whole30 compliant when using compliant buffalo sauce and coconut cream.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
