Buffalo chicken and cheese — name a better duo. We’ll wait.
For fans of bold flavors, creamy textures, and melty cheese-laden goodness, there are few dishes more crave-worthy than the beloved Buffalo Chicken Cheese Bake. This easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing casserole is the kind of recipe that brings people together—whether it’s game day, a busy weeknight, or a potluck where you want to win the table.
This post will guide you through everything you need to know to master this spicy comfort dish, from ingredient breakdowns to expert-level tips. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned home cook, you’ll find value in this comprehensive recipe article.
Why You’ll Love This Buffalo Chicken Cheese Bake
This dish isn’t just your average casserole. It combines shredded chicken tossed in spicy buffalo sauce with a luscious mixture of cream cheese and ranch, then tops it all with layers of gooey cheddar and mozzarella cheese. It’s then baked to bubbly, golden perfection. Every bite hits with a kick of spice, a creamy center, and an irresistibly cheesy crust.
Perfect for:
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Game day gatherings
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Lazy weekend dinners
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Potlucks and parties
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Leftover rotisserie chicken transformations
Ingredients Breakdown
Let’s walk through the ingredients, including possible substitutions, so you can make this recipe your own.
🛒 Main Ingredients (US Cup Measurements):
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3 cups cooked, shredded chicken
Use rotisserie chicken, poached chicken breast, or leftover grilled chicken. Just be sure it’s tender and easy to shred. -
½ cup buffalo wing sauce
Frank’s RedHot is the classic choice, but you can use any buffalo sauce you like. Prefer it milder? Choose a sauce labeled “mild” or add extra cream cheese to tone it down. -
8 oz cream cheese (1 block), softened
Softened cream cheese makes it easier to mix into the chicken and creates that velvety texture. -
1 cup ranch dressing
Store-bought is fine, but homemade ranch adds a fresh flavor. Want to mix it up? Try blue cheese dressing for a tangy twist. -
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Sharp cheddar brings a bold cheesy bite. You can use mild cheddar if preferred. -
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
For that stretchy, melty texture. You can also use Monterey Jack or a mozzarella-cheddar blend. -
2 green onions, sliced (optional)
Used as a garnish. Adds a bit of freshness and crunch.
Optional Add-ins for Customization
Feeling creative? Here are some tasty ways to put your spin on it:
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Bacon bits – because bacon makes everything better.
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Chopped jalapeños – turn up the heat.
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Corn or black beans – for a Southwest-inspired twist.
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Crushed tortilla chips on top – for added crunch.
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Blue cheese crumbles – if you’re team blue cheese.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
This is a low-maintenance recipe, requiring only a few basic tools:
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Large mixing bowls
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9×9 or 9×13 baking dish
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Wooden spoon or spatula
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Measuring cups
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Oven mitts
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Knife and cutting board (for green onions)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s how to make this addictive cheesy bake in 8 easy steps:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready while you prepare the filling. Grease a baking dish (9×9 or 9×13 depending on how thick you want the bake) with a little butter or nonstick spray.
Step 2: Mix the Chicken with Buffalo Sauce
In a large bowl, add your 3 cups of shredded chicken and ½ cup of buffalo wing sauce. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated. The smell alone will get your appetite going!
Step 3: Make the Creamy Mixture
In another bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and ranch dressing. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and creamy. You can use a hand mixer for a silkier texture.
Step 4: Combine It All
Add the creamy ranch mixture into the bowl with the buffalo chicken. Mix thoroughly until everything is coated in creamy, spicy deliciousness.
Step 5: Assemble the Bake
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Top with a generous layer of shredded cheddar and mozzarella.
Step 6: Bake It
Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is fully melted, bubbling around the edges, and golden brown on top.
Step 7: Add Garnish
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Sprinkle chopped green onions over the top for a pop of freshness and color.
Step 8: Serve and Devour
Serve hot! Pair with tortilla chips, crusty bread, or celery sticks. You can also use it as a sandwich filling, pasta topping, or even spoon it into lettuce wraps.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
Here’s a rough estimate per serving (assuming 6 servings total):
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Calories: 380–450 kcal
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Protein: 26g
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Carbohydrates: 4–6g
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Fat: 30g
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Fiber: 1g
Note: This will vary depending on cheese, dressing, and chicken used.
Storage and Reheating
Storage:
Cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing:
This bake freezes well! Wrap tightly and store up to 2 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating:
Microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes or warm in a 350°F oven until heated through.
What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Cheese Bake
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Fresh Veggies: Carrot sticks, celery, cucumber slices.
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Chips or Toasted Bread: For dipping and scooping.
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Pasta or Rice: Serve on top for a heartier meal.
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Baked Potatoes: A spoonful of this inside a fluffy baked potato? Yes, please.
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Side Salad: A crisp salad helps balance the richness of the bake.
Tips for Success
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Use softened cream cheese: It blends more easily into the mix and creates a smooth, creamy texture.
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Balance the heat: If you’re spice-sensitive, reduce the buffalo sauce or add extra cheese.
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Let it rest: After baking, let it cool for 5–10 minutes so it sets up before serving.
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Cheese variation: Use pepper jack or a Mexican blend for more depth.
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Make ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance and bake when ready to serve.
Buffalo Chicken Bake FAQ
Can I use canned chicken?
Yes, just drain it well and shred it with a fork. However, for best flavor and texture, rotisserie or home-cooked chicken is recommended.
Is this keto-friendly?
Yes! With low carbs and high fat/protein, it’s naturally keto-friendly—just double-check your ranch dressing and buffalo sauce ingredients.
Can I make it vegetarian?
You could substitute shredded jackfruit or sautéed mushrooms and cauliflower for a meatless version.
Final Thoughts
The Buffalo Chicken Cheese Bake is everything comfort food should be—warm, rich, spicy, cheesy, and satisfying. Whether you’re hosting friends for game night, looking for something fun to meal prep, or simply indulging in a cheesy moment for yourself, this recipe delivers on all fronts.
Make it once, and we guarantee it’ll earn a spot in your regular dinner rotation. It’s fast, flexible, and bursting with bold buffalo flavor. Best of all, you can customize it endlessly to suit your taste or what you have on hand.