Description
This Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole is a delicious, creamy, and spicy dish that combines the bold flavors of buffalo sauce and jalapeños with shredded chicken and roasted cauliflower. Perfect for those following Whole30, Keto, Paleo, and gluten-free diets, this casserole is a flavorful, protein-packed meal that’s easy to prepare and enjoy. With a zesty kick from buffalo sauce and creamy coconut cream, it’s a dish everyone will love.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
1 cup coconut cream or unsweetened canned coconut milk
½ cup buffalo sauce (Whole30 compliant)
2 jalapeños, thinly sliced
½ cup nutritional yeast (or shredded cheese if not dairy-free)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
¼ cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Cauliflower:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread cauliflower florets on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly browned. - Make the Sauce:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine coconut cream and buffalo sauce. Stir until smooth and heated through. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. - Assemble the Casserole:
In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, roasted cauliflower, buffalo sauce mixture, and jalapeños. Stir until evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. - Top and Bake:
Sprinkle nutritional yeast (or cheese, if using) evenly over the casserole. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until bubbling and slightly golden on top. - Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Adjust the Heat: For a milder flavor, use fewer jalapeños or substitute with bell peppers.
Cheese Options: If not dairy-free, shredded mozzarella or cheddar can replace nutritional yeast.
Meal Prep Friendly: This casserole can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Roasting Stovetop Cooking Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: Approximately 300 kcal per serving