As someone who has a passion for creating hearty and delicious meals, I was thrilled to discover the Southern Living Test Kitchen’s unique take on buffalo chicken casserole. This recipe is a true gift to those of us who cherish favorite foods transformed into comforting casseroles. Imagine taking the hot and spicy essence of chicken wings and turning it into a warm and comforting dish that serves six hungry guests or family members with ease.
The secret lies in the combination of buffalo chicken with loads of cheese, including a flavorful blend of shredded Cheddar and crumbled blue cheese. Add to this hearty pasta (I personally love penne for this), and you’ve got a base that’s ready to absorb all the heat from the buffalo-style hot sauce. But it’s not just about the heat; the inclusion of chopped carrots and sliced celery adds a necessary crunch, while a buttery panko breadcrumb topping provides the perfect seasoning. This versatile dish is not only perfect for a game day appetizer, but also a hit for a weekend lunch or a cozy weeknight supper.
The beauty of this casserole is that it can be made ahead of time, refrigerated, and then reheated just before serving. It’s a lifesaver for those busy days when you want a delicious meal without the fuss. This recipe has become a staple in my home, and I often find myself making it for various occasions, be it a casual family gathering or an impromptu get-together with friends.
Ingredients
- Cooking spray
- 12 oz. uncooked penne
- 4 Tbsp. unsalted butter, divided
- 2 Tbsp. all-purpose flour
- 2 cups half-and-half
- 12 oz. sharp white Cheddar cheese, shredded (about 3 cups), divided
- 2/3 cup buffalo-style hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
- 3/4 tsp. kosher salt
- 3 cups shredded cooked chicken (about 1 lb.)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped carrots (from 2 medium carrots)
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced celery (from 2 stalks), plus celery leaves for garnish
- 3/4 cup panko (Japanese-style breadcrumbs)
- 1 oz. blue cheese, crumbled (about 1/4 cup)
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Casserole
In the spirit of Game Day and those nostalgic flavors we all crave, I found a way to transform buffalo chicken wings into a cozy and creamy Buffalo Chicken Casserole. This dish is more than just a recipe; it’s a fusion of memories and tastes, perfect for sharing with friends and family.
The Perfect Potluck Dish
This casserole, ideal as a potluck dish, is something I love to share with friends. It’s an easy option to feed your family while they’re watching a football game, offering a taste that reminds you of those bustling sports bars but with the comfort of home. It’s a convenient dish that combines the zest of buffalo sauce with the creaminess of the casserole, making it a favorite among both adults and kids. Plus, its ability to be prepared ahead makes it a practical choice for those busy weeknights or when you need a simple, quick-prep meal.
An Easy, Flavorful Experience
What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity and the fact that it brings people together. Whether it’s a family dinner, a gathering of friends, or just a quiet evening at home, this Buffalo Chicken Casserole captures the essence of comfort food. It’s a dish that speaks of tradition yet fits perfectly into our modern, hectic lifestyles.
What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Casserole
Creating the perfect meal combination involves more than just the main dish. When serving Buffalo Chicken Casserole, it’s essential to consider side dishes that complement its rich and spicy flavor. Here are some suggestions that I have personally found to be delightful accompaniments:
Fresh and Crunchy Sides
- Celery Sticks with Ranch Dip: A classic pairing with buffalo-flavored dishes. The crispness of the celery and the cool, creamy ranch dip balance the spiciness of the casserole.
- Simple Green Salad: A light and refreshing option. Toss it with Buttermilk Dressing for a creamy touch that echoes the richness of the casserole.
Hearty and Comforting Choices
- Coleslaw: Its tangy and crunchy texture makes it a refreshing counterpoint to the creamy and spicy casserole.
- Three Bean Salad: This salad brings a hearty element to the table without overpowering the main dish.
Warm and Nutritious
- Steamed Broccoli: A healthy and simple choice that adds a vibrant color and a dose of nutrients to your meal.
- Roasted Broccoli: For a bit more flavor, roasting the broccoli can bring out a delightful nuttiness that pairs well with the chicken casserole.
Each of these sides offers a unique flavor and texture that complements the Buffalo Chicken Casserole, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
One of the great features of the Buffalo Chicken Casserole is its flexibility, especially when it comes to preparing it ahead of time. The process is straightforward and a real lifesaver for those bustling days. You can prep the recipe as usual, minus the tater tots. After assembling the ingredients, let the dish cool, then add the tater tots on top. This step is crucial as it ensures they remain crispy when baked. Next, simply cover the dish and refrigerate it. It can stay in the fridge for up to 24 hours, making it an ideal make-ahead dinner option.
On the day of serving, take the casserole out of the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before baking. This step is key to achieving an evenly cooked casserole. If you prepare it the night before, you’ll find yourself with a delicious dinner ready to be popped into the oven when you get home from work. It’s a perfect solution for those who want a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen after a long day.
Preparation and Storage
Making the Casserole in Advance
- Great Make-Ahead Dinner: The Buffalo Chicken Casserole shines as a make-ahead dinner. You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, keeping it covered in the refrigerator. This is perfect for busy schedules, allowing you to simply bake the dish when you’re ready.
- Room Temperature Before Baking: Before baking, it’s crucial to let the casserole sit on the counter to reach room temperature. Allow it to sit for 30-60 minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Freezing Options: If you need to store the casserole longer, you can freeze it before baking. Wrap it tightly and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: For leftover Buffalo Chicken Casserole, keep it in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To reheat the entire dish, cover it loosely with foil and place it in a 350° F oven for 20-30 minutes. For individual portions, a quick 1-2 minutes in the microwave will suffice.
By following these simple steps, your Buffalo Chicken Casserole will always be a delicious and convenient meal option, regardless of your schedule.
Tips for the Best Buffalo Chicken Casserole Recipe
Achieving the Perfect Sauce Texture
Softened Cream Cheese: For a smooth sauce, start with softened cream cheese. It should be easy to stir with other sauce ingredients. If you find a few lumps, don’t worry, as they will melt in the oven. To soften the cream cheese, leave it on the counter to reach room temperature or use a microwave for 15-30 seconds.
Sauce Consistency: Ensuring your sauce has the right consistency is key. It shouldn’t be too runny or too thick. The cream cheese base will help achieve this balance.
Chicken Preparation Tips
Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken: A great shortcut for this recipe is using store-bought rotisserie chicken. It saves time and adds a depth of flavor to the dish.
Cooking Your Own Chicken: If you prefer to cook your own chicken, boil about 1 lb. of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs until cooked through (approximately 15 minutes). Once cooled, chop or pull the chicken into pieces. You’ll need about 2 cups shredded. This provides flexibility in the recipe, as the amount doesn’t need to be exact.
By following these simple tips, you can elevate your Buffalo Chicken Casserole to a new level of deliciousness, ensuring a perfect blend of creamy sauce and tender, flavorful chicken in every bite.
Conclusion
Mastering the Buffalo Chicken Casserole recipe can be a delightful and rewarding culinary journey. With tips like using softened cream cheese for a smooth sauce, opting for a store-bought rotisserie chicken for convenience, or boiling your own chicken for a personal touch, you have the flexibility to tailor the dish to your taste. Remember, the success of this casserole lies in the balance of its creamy sauce and the quality of chicken used. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a hearty meal for a gathering, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, offering both comfort and flavor in every bite.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make Buffalo Chicken Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Just bring it to room temperature before baking.
Q2: Can I use store-bought chicken for this recipe?
Yes, using store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving shortcut and adds excellent flavor to the casserole.
Q3: How much chicken do I need if I cook it myself?
If you choose to cook your own chicken, boil about 1 lb. of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs until cooked through. This typically yields about 2 cups shredded chicken.
Q4: Is it possible to freeze the Buffalo Chicken Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Q5: What are some good side dishes to serve with this casserole?
Celery sticks with ranch dip, a simple green salad with buttermilk dressing, coleslaw, three bean salad, steamed or roasted broccoli are all great options.