Buffalo Chicken & Rice Casserole with Broccoli combines the bold, tangy flavors of buffalo sauce with the creamy comfort of a cheesy casserole. This dish is perfect for those who love the spicy kick of buffalo chicken wings but want a more filling, family-friendly meal. The tender chicken is mixed with fluffy rice and nutritious broccoli, all smothered in a creamy buffalo sauce and baked to perfection with a layer of melted cheese. This recipe is easy to make, packed with flavor, and great for weeknight dinners or meal prepping for the week.

Here’s how to make this mouthwatering casserole at home.

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Ingredients:

For the Casserole:

• 3 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed, rotisserie chicken works well)
• 3 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or long-grain rice)
• 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, thawed)
• 1 ½ cups buffalo sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup ranch dressing (or blue cheese dressing for extra tang)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped
• Crumbled blue cheese (optional)

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Preparation:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Rice

• If you haven’t pre-cooked your chicken, you can either bake, poach, or sauté the chicken breasts until fully cooked, then shred or cube them.
• Prepare your rice according to the package instructions. Use about 1 cup of uncooked rice to yield 3 cups of cooked rice. Set both the chicken and rice aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Broccoli

• Steam or blanch the broccoli florets for about 3-4 minutes until just tender. Drain and set aside. If using frozen broccoli, ensure it is thawed and well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.

Step 4: Make the Buffalo Cheese Sauce

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of chicken soup, ranch dressing (or blue cheese dressing), buffalo sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
• Fold in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese into the sauce mixture, saving the remaining ½ cup for topping later.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

• Add the cooked chicken, cooked rice, and steamed broccoli to the sauce mixture, stirring everything together until well coated.
• Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
• Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

• Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
• For an extra golden and crispy top, switch to broil mode for the last 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.

Step 7: Serve

• Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for 5 minutes before serving.
• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for added freshness. For those who love the bold buffalo flavor, you can also sprinkle crumbled blue cheese on top.

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COOKING Note:

• Adjusting the Heat: If you want a milder dish, you can reduce the amount of buffalo sauce or mix it with more ranch or blue cheese dressing to tone down the spiciness.
• Rice Options: This recipe works with white, brown, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. Make sure the rice is fully cooked before mixing it into the casserole.
• Cheese Choices: While cheddar cheese adds a classic flavor, you can experiment with other cheese varieties like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses for a different taste.

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Serving Suggestions:

• Side Dishes: This casserole is hearty on its own, but you can pair it with a fresh green salad, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Bread: Serve with garlic bread, dinner rolls, or even cornbread to soak up the delicious buffalo sauce.
• Dips: Offer extra ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping, especially for those who love a cooling contrast to the buffalo heat.

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Tips:

1. Make It Ahead: This casserole can be prepped a day in advance. Assemble everything, cover it with foil, and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before popping it in the oven.
2. Protein Substitutes: If you prefer, you can use ground chicken, turkey, or even shredded rotisserie chicken to save time. Another tasty variation is using shredded pork or leftover turkey.
3. Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or spinach into the casserole for added color and nutrition.
4. Make It Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cream of chicken soup and ensure that your buffalo sauce and other ingredients are gluten-free for a completely gluten-free meal.
5. Crispy Topping: For added texture, you can top the casserole with crushed tortilla chips or panko breadcrumbs before baking for a crunchy finish.

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Prep Time:

• 20 minutes

Cooking Time:

• 30 minutes

Total Time:

• 50 minutes

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Nutritional Information (per serving, estimated):

• Calories: 540
• Protein: 32g
• Sodium: 950mg
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 25g

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Conclusion:

Buffalo Chicken & Rice Casserole with Broccoli is a crowd-pleasing, spicy twist on traditional casseroles. The bold flavors of buffalo sauce and creamy cheese are balanced by the healthy addition of broccoli and tender chicken, making this dish both indulgent and satisfying. Whether you’re a fan of buffalo chicken wings or looking for a new way to spice up dinner, this casserole offers a delicious combination of flavors and textures. It’s a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare, packed with protein, and perfect for both casual weeknight dinners and larger gatherings.

Get ready to dive into this flavorful casserole, where every bite brings you cheesy, tangy, and spicy satisfaction!

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