Get ready to ignite your taste buds with the ultimate comfort food: Jalapeno Buffalo Chicken Casserole! This mouthwatering dish combines tender shredded chicken, zesty buffalo sauce, and creamy cheese, all topped with spicy jalapenos for that perfect kick. Whether you’re hosting a game night or just craving something delicious, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. In just 45 minutes, you can whip up a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds. So, are you ready to dive into this flavorful adventure? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 cup jalapenos, sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded cooked chicken with buffalo sauce, ensuring the chicken is thoroughly coated and evenly mixed.
- Soften the cream cheese at room temperature, then mix it into the chicken mixture until well incorporated, creating a creamy and spicy base.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, stirring to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Spread the chicken and buffalo sauce mixture evenly across the prepared baking dish, creating a uniform layer.
- Distribute sliced jalapenos across the top of the chicken mixture, spreading them for even heat and flavor distribution.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the entire casserole, covering the chicken and jalapenos completely.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are slightly golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to settle and the dish to cool slightly.
- Serve hot, optionally garnishing with additional sliced jalapenos, chopped green onions, or a drizzle of extra buffalo sauce.
Tips
- Prep Your Ingredients: To save time, shred your cooked chicken ahead of time or use store-bought rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder casserole, reduce the amount of jalapenos or use pickled jalapenos for a less intense flavor.
- Cream Cheese Consistency: Make sure the cream cheese is softened at room temperature before mixing. This will ensure a smooth and creamy texture throughout the casserole.
- Layering is Key: For even flavor distribution, make sure to spread the chicken mixture evenly in the baking dish and layer the jalapenos and cheese generously on top.
- Baking Time: Keep an eye on the casserole towards the end of the baking time. You want the cheese to be bubbly and golden without burning.
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: Consider garnishing your casserole with fresh green onions, additional jalapenos, or a drizzle of ranch dressing for an extra layer of flavor.
- Leftovers: This casserole makes great leftovers! Store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 135mg
