Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole (Keto & Paleo)
If you are following a Whole30, Keto, or Paleo lifestyle, you know the struggle of finding comfort food that doesn’t break the rules. This Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole is the answer. It delivers all the spicy, creamy indulgence of a buffalo wing dip but transforms it into a nutrient-dense main dish. Visually, the vibrant orange sauce clings to the tender shredded chicken and cauliflower rice, while the pops of red pepper and green jalapeño promise a fresh crunch in every bite.
This dish proves that “clean eating” doesn’t mean bland. The sauce is a luxurious blend of spicy buffalo sauce, zesty ranch, and rich coconut cream, creating a dairy-free mixture that rivals any cheese-laden casserole. It is a flavor bomb that balances heat, creaminess, and savory notes, making it perfect for meal prep or a satisfying weeknight dinner that the whole family will love.
Secrets to the Perfect Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole
Why It Works
This recipe works because it masters texture and flavor balance. Cauliflower rice can often be bland or watery, but here it acts as a sponge, soaking up the intense buffalo-coconut sauce. By combining it with shredded protein, you get a hearty “risotto-like” consistency.
The secret weapon is the coconut cream. As seen in the photo, the sauce is incredibly thick and creamy. Using only the solidified cream from the top of the can mimics the texture of heavy cream or cream cheese without the dairy, keeping it Whole30 compliant while providing the healthy fats essential for Keto.
Chef’s Tips
- Coconut Cream Hack: Place your can of coconut milk in the fridge the night before. This separates the cream from the water effectively. Scoop only the thick white solid part for the sauce to ensure your casserole isn’t watery.
- Manage the Spice: The recipe calls for diced jalapeños inside and on top. If you are sensitive to heat, remove the seeds and white membranes from the peppers before dicing, as that is where most of the capsaicin lives.
- Don’t Overcook Cauliflower: Since frozen cauliflower rice is already blanched, add it towards the end. You want it to heat through but retain a bit of bite (al dente) so the casserole has a rustic texture rather than becoming mush.
Serve this spicy casserole with crisp celery sticks or cooling cucumber slices to balance the heat.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Because cauliflower releases water, give it a good stir before reheating. You can freeze this casserole for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove.
Substitutions
Chicken: Ground chicken or turkey works well if you don't have shredded breast. Cook the ground meat with the onions at the beginning. Coconut Cream: If you are not strictly dairy-free/Whole30, you can substitute 4 oz of softened cream cheese for the coconut cream for an ultra-rich keto version. Ranch: If you don't have compliant ranch, you can skip it and add a tablespoon of dried dill and parsley to the coconut cream.
Ingredients
2 pounds, cooked and shredded (poached or rotisserie)
20 ounces, kept frozen until ready to use
2 small, finely diced (seeds removed for less heat), plus slices for garnish
1 small, diced
1 whole, diced for color and sweetness
1/2 cup, shredded or finely diced
1/2 cup, the thick solid part from the top of a chilled can
1/2 cup, ensure it is sugar-free/compliant (like Frank's RedHot)
1/4 cup, Whole30/Paleo compliant (dairy-free)
1 tablespoon, minced
1 teaspoon, adjust to taste
1/2 teaspoon
Optional, chopped for garnish
1 tbsp, avocado or olive oil for sautéing
Shopping Tip
For best results, gather all ingredients before you start cooking. Fresh ingredients will give you the most flavorful results.
Instructions
Heat oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onion, red pepper, carrots, and diced jalapeños. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Reduce heat to low. Stir in the coconut cream, buffalo sauce, ranch, salt, and black pepper. Whisk gently until the coconut cream melts and the sauce is smooth and orange.
Add the frozen cauliflower rice and shredded chicken to the skillet. Stir well to coat everything in the sauce.
Increase heat to medium. Cook for 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cauliflower rice is tender-crisp and the entire dish is heated through.
Remove from heat. Top with fresh green onions and extra jalapeño slices. Serve hot.
Serve this recipe straight from the kitchen for the best taste and texture. It's sure to become a favorite that you'll make again and again.
Frequently Asked Questions
→ What type of ingredients work best for this dish?
Use the freshest ingredients available for the best flavor and texture results.
→ Can I make substitutions?
Yes, feel free to swap ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store in the refrigerator and reheat gently to maintain the best texture.
Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole (Keto & Paleo)
If you are following a Whole30, Keto, or Paleo lifestyle, you know the struggle of finding comfort food that doesn’t break the rules. This Jalapeño Buffal
Ingredients
Instructions
Heat oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onion, red pepper, carrots, and diced jalapeños. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Reduce heat to low. Stir in the coconut cream, buffalo sauce, ranch, salt, and black pepper. Whisk gently until the coconut cream melts and the sauce is smooth and orange.
Add the frozen cauliflower rice and shredded chicken to the skillet. Stir well to coat everything in the sauce.
Increase heat to medium. Cook for 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cauliflower rice is tender-crisp and the entire dish is heated through.
Remove from heat. Top with fresh green onions and extra jalapeño slices. Serve hot.
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Tools You'll Need
- Large Skillet or Dutch Oven
- Meat Claws or Forks
- Chef's Knife
Recipe Tags
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At Cozy Bites Kitchen, we believe that great food doesn't have to be complicated. Our passion is creating easy, cozy, and delicious homemade recipes for everyday cooking - quick meals, comfort dishes, family dinners, soups, pastas, and simple home-style favorites. Warm, friendly, and fuss-free cooking made for real life.
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