Buffalo Chicken Casserole Recipe

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Chicken and Rotini Casserole

Ingredients

• 3 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 2 tablespoons cayenne pepper sauce
• (16 ounce) package rotini pasta, cooked and drained
• 1 stalk celery, sliced
• 1 (10.75 ounce) can Campbell's Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup (Regular or 98% Fat Free)
• cup blue cheese salad dressing
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350F (175C). Lightly grease an 11x8x2-inch baking dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken and cayenne pepper sauce. Stir until the chicken is evenly coated with the sauce.
3. Add the cooked rotini pasta, sliced celery, cream of chicken soup, blue cheese dressing, and cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese to the bowl. Mix everything together until well combined.
4. Spoon the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
5. Top with the remaining cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the chicken mixture is hot and bubbling and the cheese is melted and golden.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrient	Amount	% Daily Value*
Calories	321	-
Total Fat	18g	23%
Saturated Fat	6g	32%
Cholesterol	110mg	37%
Sodium	700mg	30%
Total Carbohydrate	24g	9%
Dietary Fiber	2g	6%
Total Sugars	2g	-
Protein	16g	31%
Vitamin C	5mg	6%
Calcium	152mg	12%
Iron	3mg	14%
Potassium	133mg	3%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Origin and History

The Buffalo Chicken Casserole is a variation of the famous Buffalo wings, a beloved dish that originated in Buffalo, New York, in 1964. The original Buffalo wings, made by deep-frying chicken wings and tossing them in a spicy cayenne pepper sauce, became an instant hit and quickly spread across the United States. Over time, creative home cooks began experimenting with different forms of "Buffalo-flavored" dishes, leading to the creation of the Buffalo Chicken Casserole. Combining the flavors of Buffalo wings with creamy, cheesy pasta, this casserole has become a popular comfort food, especially for gatherings and game-day parties.

Regional Features

The casserole's roots are undeniably linked to the Western New York region, specifically Buffalo, where it draws inspiration from the original Buffalo wings. However, this dish has been adapted all over the U.S., with variations that may include different types of cheeses, dressings, or the choice of pasta. In some regions, its common to see this casserole made with ranch dressing instead of the traditional blue cheese, or even a spicy twist with extra hot sauce for added heat. The combination of creamy, tangy dressing and spicy buffalo sauce makes it a regional favorite in various forms, especially in the Midwestern and Southern parts of the U.S.

How it Differs from Similar Dishes

While Buffalo Chicken Casserole shares similarities with other creamy pasta bakes, such as Chicken Alfredo or Baked Ziti, its key differentiator is the use of spicy buffalo sauce, which gives the dish a tangy heat not found in traditional casseroles. The addition of blue cheese dressing or ranch dressing provides a creamy contrast to the spiciness of the sauce, making it a flavorful and balanced dish. Additionally, the use of rotini pasta allows the sauce to cling to each bite, making it more hearty compared to other pasta bakes that might use a simpler sauce.

Where is it Typically Served?

Buffalo Chicken Casserole is commonly served at casual gatherings, such as family dinners, tailgates, and parties, particularly during football season. Its bold flavors make it a crowd-pleaser at barbecues and potlucks, where comfort food is key. Many people also enjoy it as a quick weeknight dinner or as a comforting meal on chilly evenings. Because of its ease of preparation and filling nature, its a go-to dish for busy families and anyone looking to enjoy the classic Buffalo wing flavor in a more substantial form.

Interesting Facts

• Buffalo wings, the dish that inspired this casserole, were originally created by Teressa Bellissimo at the Anchor Bar in Buffalo, New York, in 1964. They were initially a way to use up leftover chicken wings, which were not popular at the time.
• Buffalo sauce, the key ingredient in this casserole, is made from a blend of cayenne pepper sauce, butter, and other seasonings. Its famous for its spicy and tangy flavor, and is the base for a variety of "Buffalo" style dishes.
• While blue cheese dressing is the traditional choice for serving with Buffalo wings, many people substitute it with ranch dressing, depending on personal preference. The ranch version is also more common in the Midwest and Southern U.S.
• This casserole can easily be made ahead of time and baked later, making it a convenient dish for meal prep or a party spread.
• Buffalo Chicken Casserole can be customized by adjusting the level of spiciness. For those who prefer a milder flavor, less hot sauce can be added, or a milder buffalo sauce can be used.

FAQ about Buffalo Chicken Casserole Recipe

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