Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole earlier in the day or even the night before. Just cover and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. Add 5–10 extra minutes to your baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.

Is this freezer-friendly?

Yes! Freeze it after it’s baked (and cooled), or prep it raw and freeze before baking. Just be sure to wrap it tightly.

What buffalo sauce is Whole30-compliant?

Look for sauces with no added sugar or dairy—Primal Kitchen makes a great one. But always double-check the label.

Can I use fresh cauliflower rice?

Sure! Just sauté it for 5–7 minutes first to cook off excess moisture. Otherwise, your casserole might get a little watery.

Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole: Whole30, Keto, Paleo, GF

Description

This Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Casserole is spicy, creamy, and ultra-satisfying. Whole30, Keto, Paleo, and gluten-free, it’s packed with bold flavor, nutritious veggies, and just the right kick of heat—perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale

2 pounds chicken breast, cooked and shredded
20 ounces frozen cauliflower rice
2 small jalapeños, finely diced (plus more for topping, if desired)
1 small white or yellow onion, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1/2 cup shredded or finely diced carrots
1/2 cup canned coconut cream (thick part only)
1/2 cup buffalo sauce (Whole30-friendly if needed)
1/4 cup ranch dressing (dairy-free if Whole30)
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Optional: green onions and extra jalapeños for garnish

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large casserole dish, add the shredded chicken, cauliflower rice, jalapeños, onion, red pepper, and carrots.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the coconut cream, buffalo sauce, ranch, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and veggies. Use tongs or two forks to mix everything evenly.
Smooth into an even layer and place uncovered in the oven.
Bake for 45 minutes, or until hot and slightly crisp on top.
Remove from oven and garnish with more buffalo sauce, ranch, green onions, or jalapeños as desired.
Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

Want it cheesier? Add shredded cheese in the last 10 minutes of baking (if not following Whole30).
You can use rotisserie chicken for a shortcut—just check ingredients for compliance if on Whole30.
Swap carrots for zucchini or celery if needed.
To tame the heat, remove jalapeño seeds or reduce the amount used.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Dinner, Casserole
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 310 kcal
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 780 mg
Fat: 21 g
Saturated Fat: 11 g
Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 8 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 24 g
Cholesterol: 75 mg