Buffalo Cauliflower & Chicken Casserole
September 4, 2025
A spicy, creamy casserole packed with shredded chicken, cauliflower rice, and a crunchy almond-flax topping.
This Buffalo Cauliflower & Chicken Casserole is where comfort food meets a spicy kick. This dish takes tender shredded chicken, cauliflower rice, and creamy buffalo sauce, then bakes it all under a crunchy almond-flax topping. It’s a lighter twist on classic buffalo chicken, making Buffalo Cauliflower & Chicken Casserole just as perfect for weeknight dinners as it is for game-day gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Spicy and creamy comfort food
- Made with protein-packed shredded chicken
- Cauliflower rice keeps it lighter and low carb
- Crunchy almond-flax topping adds texture
- Buffalo Cauliflower & Chicken Casserole is easy for weeknights
- Perfect for meal prep or game day dinners
Ingredient Notes
- Shredded chicken – Rotisserie chicken makes this recipe super quick, but you can also use leftover grilled or baked chicken.
- Cauliflower rice – Fresh or frozen both work. If using frozen, thaw and pat dry to avoid excess liquid in the casserole.
- Greek yogurt – Adds creaminess and protein without heavy cream or mayo. Plain, unsweetened works best.
- Buffalo sauce – Use your favorite brand and adjust the heat level to taste. For a milder casserole, mix in a little extra yogurt or ranch.
- Cheese – Optional, but mozzarella or cheddar makes the casserole extra creamy and melty.
- Almond-flax topping – A crunchy mix of almond flour, flaxseed, parmesan, and spices. It keeps the casserole low carb while adding great texture.
Before You Bake
Do I need to cook the cauliflower rice first?
No, just make sure it’s thawed and patted dry if frozen. It will cook through in the casserole.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.
Is the topping necessary?
The almond-flax topping adds crunch and keeps it low carb, but you can swap with breadcrumbs or omit if you prefer.
Buffalo Cauliflower & Chicken Casserole
Ingredients
- 2–3 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
- 4 cups cauliflower rice (fresh or frozen, thawed and patted dry)
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar (optional, for extra creaminess)
Crunchy Almond-Flax Topping
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed
- 2 tablespoons shredded parmesan
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or melted butter)
- Pinch of garlic powder + smoked paprika
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease an 8″ square baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix together Greek yogurt, buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in the shredded chicken and cauliflower rice until coated. Add the shredded cheese if using.
- Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- In a small bowl, mix together almond flour, flaxseed, parmesan, olive oil, and spices until crumbly. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with green onions or a drizzle of ranch if you want extra flavor.
FAQ
Can I use cooked turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, turkey works just as well and is a great way to use leftovers.
How spicy is Buffalo Cauliflower & Chicken Casserole?
It depends on your buffalo sauce brand. For less heat, add extra Greek yogurt or use a mild sauce.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, freeze unbaked or fully baked. If frozen unbaked, thaw overnight before baking. If already baked, reheat covered until hot.
What sides go with this casserole?
It pairs well with a simple green salad, roasted veggies, or celery and carrot sticks with ranch.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Sprinkle of Fun
Think of this Buffalo Cauliflower & Chicken Casserole as the reward for a weekend well spent—lace up for a run, fill your Stanley with ice-cold water, and then come home to bake up this lighter, protein-packed dish that tastes like comfort food without the heaviness.
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