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Keto Buffalo Chicken Casserole 🥘

Published: · Updated: by · 13 Comments

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This Keto Buffalo Chicken Casserole recipe is all about bringing the taste of buffalo wings right to your dinner table without the carbs! We're talking juicy chicken, crispy bacon, creamy buffalo sauce, and mouthwatering spices, all whipped up into one easy-to-make, low-carb casserole. So, let's get cooking and whip up this cheesy delight that's perfect for any keto diet!

Keto Buffalo Chicken Casserole in cast iron skillet
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Preparation and cooking overview

Crafting this Buffalo Chicken Casserole is as easy as pie. You'll start with getting your spaghetti squash tender in the microwave, followed by pan-frying your bacon and chicken to perfection. In just under an hour, you've whipped up a cheesy, flavorful casserole that doesn't skimp on taste or satisfaction - it's keto cooking at its best!

Chef's note

Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to enhance the spice level. You can also add ranch seasoning to the casserole mix for a tangy and herby flavor. The blend of buffalo sauce and ranch seasoning is like bringing home the classic taste of spicy hot wings dipped in cool, creamy ranch!

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 Minutes
  • Difficulty Level: Easy
  • Recipe Makes 6 Servings

🥘 Ingredients for this keto buffalo chicken casserole recipe

Here is a simple ingredient list for this chicken dish:

  • 1 medium spaghetti squash
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 6 slices bacon
  • 4 jalapeños thinly sliced
  • 8 ounces of cream cheese
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • 2 cups Mexican blend cheese
  • ½ cup buffalo sauce
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 3 large eggs

Ingredient substitutions

  • Spaghetti squash: You can make this dish with cauliflower if spaghetti squash is something you don't prefer. Use the same amount as spaghetti squash.
  • Boneless chicken thighs: While chicken thighs provide great flavor and tenderness, you can substitute them with chicken breasts.
  • Bacon: If you don't have bacon or prefer a different option, use Pancetta or Prosciutto.
  • Jalapeños: For those who enjoy a milder heat, replace jalapeños with poblano peppers. They have a slightly smoky flavor with mild to medium spiciness, making them an excellent alternative for those who prefer less heat.
  • Mexican blend cheese: You can use your favorite cheese in this recipe. Try Monterey Jack, cheddar cheese, blue cheese, or mozzarella cheese.

Additional ingredients

Add some optional ingredients to enhance the flavor profile of your casserole.

  • Blue cheese: Blue cheese adds so much flavor as a topping, so experiment for enhanced flavor!
  • Ranch dressing: Mix one tablespoon of ranch seasoning with cream cheese, sour cream, and buffalo sauce. It adds a delightful ranch flavor to the casserole, enhancing the overall taste experience.
  • Extra buffalo sauce: Add some extra hot sauce to the chicken mixture for a kick of spice.
  • Green onions: Finely chop some green onions and sprinkle them over the casserole before baking.
  • Crushed pork rinds: For a crispy topping, crush some pork rinds and sprinkle them over the casserole before baking.
  • Diced bell peppers: If you're a fan of colorful veggies, add some chopped bell peppers to the skillet along with the jalapeños. They bring a vibrant sweetness and a satisfying crunch.
  • Cilantro: Garnish the finished casserole with freshly chopped cilantro.

Cooking tools required

To make this Keto Buffalo Chicken Casserole recipe, you will need the following kitchen tools:

  • Fork
  • Knife
  • Skillet
  • Cutting board
  • Colander
  • Large 10.5" skillet
  • Oven
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Baking dish
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spatula

Tools substitute options

  • Cast-iron skillet If you don't have a large skillet, use a non-stick frying pan. Just make sure it's large enough to accommodate all the ingredients.
  • Whisk: If you don't have a whisk, a hand mixer can blend the cream cheese, sour cream, and hot sauce until smooth. Use it at low speed to avoid splattering.
  • Colander: Replace with a fine mesh sieve to drain the spaghetti squash.

How to make Keto Buffalo Chicken Casserole: step-by-step guide

Cooking methods

  • Microwave cooking
  • Stovetop cooking
  • Baking

Preparation steps

  1. First, gather all the ingredients listed in the recipe. Measure them in needed quantities and set them aside.
  2. Wash the vegetables with cold water and set them aside.
  3. Slice 3 jalapeños.
  4. Grate the cheese and keep it covered in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Cooking instructions

  1. Prepare spaghetti squash: To microwave spaghetti squash properly, cut the squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Poke holes in it with the help of a fork. Place the halves in a microwave-safe bowl and cook for 12-15 minutes until they become tender. Once cooked, use a fork to scoop the strands and transfer them to a colander to drain any excess moisture.
  2. Fry the bacon: Heat a large 10.5″ skillet over medium heat and fry the bacon until crispy. Remove, chop, and set aside.
  3. Fry the chicken: Sprinkle onion powder and garlic powder on the fillet, then place it in a heated, oiled skillet. Cook the chicken for about 5 minutes per side until crispy and cooked. Remove to a cutting board and chop into small bite-sized pieces.
  4. Ready the casserole: In the same pan, add sliced jalapeños and saute for 30 seconds. Add in the cream cheese, sour cream, and buffalo sauce. Mix until melted. Next, toss in the spaghetti squash, bacon, and chicken. Pour in the beaten egg and mix everything thoroughly.
  5. Bake the mix: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the mixture in the skillet. Place the skillet in the preheated oven at 375° and bake for 30 minutes.
  6. Serve: Once the casserole is cooked, remove it from the oven. Top it with any desired additional toppings before serving.
Cut Keto Buffalo Chicken Casserole on plate with forks

Chef's pro tip

Drain the microwaved spaghetti squash thoroughly before adding it to the other ingredients to avoid a soggy casserole. This will remove excess moisture and prevent the casserole from having a runny texture.

What to serve with keto buffalo chicken casserole?

This recipe provides a complete meal on its own. But if you want something more, you can pair it with the following options:

  • Fresh salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette brings freshness and crunch. You can also try our Caprese Salad for a light salad option.
  • Steamed or roasted vegetables: Low-carb vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or Brussels sprouts go well with this flavorful dinner.

How to make it healthier

  • Use a cooking spray in the recipe to reduce oil content.
  • Choose low-sodium or homemade buffalo sauce.
  • Use organic and free-range chicken for a healthier option.
  • Increase the vegetable content by adding diced bell peppers or spinach to boost nutritional value.

Time-saving tips

  • Use pre-cooked chicken: You can skip cooking the meat in the skillet if you have pre-cooked or leftover chicken. Chop the pre-cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and add it directly to the casserole. Shredded chicken from a rotisserie chicken is also a great option to save time.
  • Purchase pre-cut spaghetti squash: Some grocery stores offer pre-cut and pre-packaged spaghetti squash, which can significantly reduce the preparation time.

What can I prepare ahead of time?

  • Spaghetti squash: Pre-cook the spaghetti squash in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This way, you can reheat it and proceed with the recipe.
  • Shredded chicken: Prepare and shred the chicken in advance for later use.
  • Cut the veggies: Clean and cut the veggies you use and keep them in the fridge until needed.
  • Buffalo sauce: Prepare the buffalo sauce mixture by combining the cream cheese, sour cream, and buffalo sauce in a bowl and refrigerate until needed.

Storage and reheating instructions

This low-carb chicken casserole is your new best friend when it comes to meal prep. If you're hustling and bustling, just double up on the recipe and whip up a big batch. Voila, you've got a ready-to-eat snack at your fingertips whenever you're on the move!

Storage tips

  • Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container. Refrigerate them for 3-4 days.
  • Freezer: Freezing is also an option. Transfer the cooled casserole to a freezer-safe container or individual portions wrapped in foil or freezer bags. You can freeze them for 2-3 months.

Reheating tips

  • Microwave: Place the leftovers in a microwave-safe container and cover them with a lid or plastic wrap. Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
  • Oven: Transfer the casserole to a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat at 350°F until warmed. Add shredded cheese and jalapeños before reheating to maintain the texture and flavors.

Recipe wrap-up and conclusion

This Keto Buffalo Chicken Casserole is undoubtedly a game changer for anyone seeking cozy, comfort food that's low in carbs. So, say hello to your spicy comfort fusion and let this dish become a regular on your keto meal plan. And hey, don't be shy! Snap a photo of your masterpiece and make sure to tag us on Instagram and Facebook – we love seeing your creations!

Looking for more keto-friendly buffalo chicken recipes?

Frequently asked questions

Absolutely! You can make a delicious Buffalo Chicken Cauliflower Casserole if you don't have spaghetti squash. Use approximately the same amount of cauliflower.

Yes! You can use shredded meat from a rotisserie chicken. If you do so, skip the step where you cook the chicken in this recipe.

Follow these instructions to microwave the squash properly:

  1. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise.
  2. Scrape out the seeds.
  3. Poke holes with the help of a fork.
  4. Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cook for 12-15 minutes until tender.
  5. Scoop out the strands using a fork, then drain them in a colander.

Yes, you can! Freeze portions of the casserole in freezer-safe containers. To reheat, microwave or place the skillet on the stovetop until the cheese melts.

Certainly! You can easily adapt it for vegetarians. Instead of chicken, use vegetarian substitutes like tofu or a mix of sautéed mushrooms and cauliflower. You can explore vegetarian bacon alternatives made from tempeh.

Definitely! Greek yogurt is a suitable replacement for sour cream in this recipe. Just ensure you choose a full-fat Greek yogurt to maintain the richness and creaminess of the dish.

📖 Recipe

Keto Buffalo Chicken Casserole in cast iron skillet

Keto Buffalo Chicken Casserole

This Keto Buffalo Chicken Casserole is a delicious low carb skillet dinner inspired by buffalo wings recipe.
4.75 from 4 votes
Print Rate Pin Recipe
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: buffalo chicken, casserole, keto
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 564kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 medium spaghetti squash 19 ounces of "noodles"
  • 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • 6 slices bacon
  • 4 jalapeños thinly sliced
  • 8 ounces of cream cheese
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • 2 cups Mexican blend cheese
  • ½ cup buffalo sauce
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 3 large eggs
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Prepare spaghetti squash: To microwave spaghetti squash properly, cut the squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Poke holes in it with the help of a fork. Place the halves in a microwave-safe bowl and cook for 12-15 minutes until they become tender. Once cooked, use a fork to scoop the strands and transfer them to a colander to drain any excess moisture.
  • Fry the bacon: Heat a large 10.5″ skillet over medium heat and fry the bacon until crispy. Remove, chop, and set aside.
  • Fry the chicken: Sprinkle onion powder and garlic powder on the fillet, then place it in a heated, oiled skillet. Cook the chicken for about 5 minutes per side until crispy and cooked. Remove to a cutting board and chop into small bite-sized pieces.
  • Ready the casserole: In the same pan, add sliced jalapeños and saute for 30 seconds. Add in the cream cheese, sour cream, and buffalo sauce. Mix until melted. Next, toss in the spaghetti squash, bacon, and chicken. Pour in the beaten egg and mix everything thoroughly.
  • Bake the mix: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the mixture in the skillet. Place the skillet in the preheated oven at 375° and bake for 30 minutes.
  • Serve: Once the casserole is cooked, remove it from the oven. Top it with any desired additional toppings before serving.

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts
Keto Buffalo Chicken Casserole
Amount Per Serving
Calories 564 Calories from Fat 369
% Daily Value*
Fat 41g63%
Saturated Fat 20g125%
Cholesterol 286mg95%
Sodium 1291mg56%
Potassium 543mg16%
Carbohydrates 8g3%
Fiber 1g4%
Sugar 4g4%
Protein 39g78%
Vitamin A 1138IU23%
Vitamin C 12mg15%
Calcium 331mg33%
Iron 2mg11%
*

Nutritional values are estimates only and do not include carbs from sugar alcohols.

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Linda says

    What is buffalo sauce?

    Reply

    • Alex Lester says

      We use Franks Red Hot, it's just hot sauce really.

      Reply

  2. Christie says

    I made this last night and it was absolutely AMAZING! Thank you for posting a new recipe!

    Reply

  3. Lulu says

    Made this tonight to use up rotisserie cooked chicken, so I added the onion & garlic powders to the sauce. Very nice comfort food in winter! I used Frank's Buffalo Wing Sauce and halved the recipe for a 9x9 casserole but I left out the sour cream. Needed an extra 10min baking to set. A very nice dinner with a salad. FYI - squash haters won't even taste it.

    Reply

  4. Shannon says

    I made this tonight and OMG it is delicious! I am not usually crazy about spaghetti squash but I took a chance and it is a keeper recipe.

    Reply

    • Alex Lester says

      Awesome, happy you liked it!

      Reply

  5. Rach says

    This is so good. I made it minus the eggs, cheese and jalapeño (we are light-weights). So filling!!!

    Reply

  6. Amy says

    Can you roast the squash instead of microwaving? Thanks!

    Reply

    • Alex Lester says

      Yes!

      Reply

  7. Barbara Murphy says

    Can you freeze this?

    Reply

    • Alex Lester says

      Yes!

      Reply

  8. Jacki says

    This was so yummy and super filling. This will be going into our rotation. I have loved all of the dishes I have made from Cast Iron Keto! Please keep them coming.

    Reply

  9. Judy A Fitzsimonds says

    5 stars
    This was so, so good! Thank you!

    Reply

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