Description
This Buffalo Chicken Casserole is a flavorful and comforting one-pan meal featuring tender chicken pieces simmered with rice, celery, onions, and spicy Frank’s RedHot sauce, all topped with a blend of cheddar and blue cheese for a creamy, tangy finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this casserole combines classic buffalo flavors with hearty ingredients in a simple stovetop dish.
Ingredients
Protein and Dairy
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
Vegetables
- 1 cup chopped onions
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
Grains and Liquids
- 1 1/2 cups long grain rice
- 2 1/2 cups water or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot Sauce
Seasonings
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken and Vegetables: Cut the chicken into 1-inch bite-size pieces. Chop the onions, celery, and green onions finely to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet or sauté pan with a lid, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and celery and sauté for 3-5 minutes until they soften and release their flavors, creating a fragrant base for the casserole.
- Combine Ingredients and Simmer: To the skillet, add the chicken pieces, rice, Frank’s RedHot Sauce, chicken broth (or water), and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Stir the mixture to combine everything evenly. Cover the skillet with the lid, bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for 15 minutes, or until the rice has absorbed the liquid and you see small vent holes on the rice surface, indicating it’s cooked through.
- Add Cheeses and Final Touches: Remove the lid and fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains. Stir in the shredded cheddar, crumbled blue cheese, and chopped green onions until melted and well combined. Taste, then add more salt and black pepper as needed to balance the flavors. Serve hot for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- Using chicken broth instead of water will enhance the casserole’s flavor.
- Adjust the amount of Frank’s RedHot Sauce based on your preferred spice level.
- For a creamier texture, add a splash of cream or milk when stirring in the cheeses.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
- Gluten-free if using gluten-free broth and verifying hot sauce ingredients.
