Buffalo Chicken Sweet Potato Casserole – Whisk Guide
Every great dish deserves a stellar sidekick, and when I make buffalo chicken sweet potato casserole, I carefully choose complementary flavors and textures to elevate the meal. A crunchy side salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole, offering a refreshing contrast.
Soft, warm garlic breadsticks brushed with garlic butter are perfect for soaking up the casserole’s delicious sauce—everyone will appreciate the extra carbs. Creamy coleslaw adds a tangy crunch that contrasts delightfully with the warm dish, making it addictive.
Finally, lightly steamed green beans tossed in olive oil and lemon not only enhance the dish with their vibrant color but also add a fresh, light touch to complete the meal.
If you’ve ever craved a dish that’s hearty, comforting, yet packed with flavor, then you’re in for a treat! My kitchen has seen many recipes, but nothing excites my family quite like buffalo chicken sweet potato casserole. This dish is a true game-changer.
It’s loaded with tender chicken, creamy sweet potatoes, and that classic buffalo kick. Plus, it’s an incredible crowd-pleaser that fits perfectly during game day gatherings or a cozy family dinner.
What is Buffalo Chicken Sweet Potato Casserole?
At its core, buffalo chicken sweet potato casserole is a delightful combination of seasoned chicken, sweet potatoes, and a zesty buffalo wing sauce, all baked together in one dish. It’s the ultimate comfort food; think of it as a warm hug on a plate. The vibrant flavors of buffalo sauce meet the sweetness of the potatoes, creating a dish that’s rich in taste and nutrition.
Why This Recipe Works
Flavor Explosion: The sharpness of the buffalo sauce cuts through the sweetness of the potatoes. It’s a magical pairing that keeps you coming back for more.
Nutrient-Packed: Sweet potatoes are a fantastic source of fiber and vitamins, which means that while this dish is incredibly hearty, it’s also good for you. You get the indulgence of buffalo chicken with the added bonus of nutrition.
Customizable: You like it hot? Add more buffalo sauce. Prefer milder flavors? Go easy on it. This recipe adapts to your taste preferences effortlessly.
Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this casserole can go from your kitchen to the oven in no time. Trust me—this is the dish to make when you’re short on time but still want to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Buffalo Chicken Sweet Potato Casserole
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this amazing casserole:
- 1 cup buffalo wing sauce (I recommend New Primal, but Frank’s is a solid choice too)
- ½ cup avocado oil or extra virgin olive oil
- 2 lbs boneless chicken breast fillets, diced into bite-sized chunks
- 5 medium sweet potatoes, diced into small cubes (you can keep the skin or remove it)
- 2 crowns of broccoli, separated into petite florets
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cooked and crumbled turkey bacon
- ¼ cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- ¼ cup diced scallions (green onions)
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- ½ tsp sea salt
- 2 tsp roasted garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- A drizzle of creamy ranch dressing (optional)
How to Make This Buffalo Chicken Sweet Potato Casserole
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). A hot oven is a happy oven!
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the avocado oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season it with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink, which usually takes about 7-10 minutes. Stir in the buffalo sauce and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
While the chicken is cooking, peel (if desired) and dice the sweet potatoes. Bring a pot of water to a boil and add the sweet potatoes. Cook for about 10 minutes or until fork-tender. Drain and set aside.
Step 4: Blanch the Broccoli
In the same boiling water, add the broccoli florets and blanch for 2-3 minutes until bright green and just tender. Drain and set aside with the sweet potatoes.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken (with the buffalo sauce), sweet potatoes, broccoli, turkey bacon, parsley, and half of the cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is well mixed.
Step 6: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer this mixture into a greased baking dish. Top it with the remaining cheddar cheese and a drizzle of ranch dressing, if you like.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 8: Enjoy!
Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Your friends and family will be drawn to this dish like bees to honey!
Tips for Making the Best Casserole
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and vegetables really make a difference in flavor.
Don’t Skip the Ranch: The ranch dressing gives a delicious creaminess on top! If you’re not a ranch fan, you could also use blue cheese dressing.
Opt for Sweet Potatoes: They are healthier and add sweetness to the dish. Regular potatoes can be used but won’t provide the same kick.
Make Ahead: You can prepare this casserole a day in advance. Just assemble it and pop it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake!
Add More Veggies: Bell peppers or zucchini would work really well in this dish if you want to sneak in more nutrients.
Nutrition Information
How to Store the Leftovers?
If you’re fortunate enough to have leftovers (which I doubt!), they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave before digging in again. The flavors get even better, if you can believe it!
What Are Some Recommended Side Dishes for Buffalo Chicken Sweet Potato Casserole?
Cauliflower Rice: This is a very light option that acts as a great bed for your casserole. It absorbs surrounding flavors well.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob brushed with butter complements the spiciness perfectly.
Tortilla Chips: For those who fancy a crunchy side, tortilla chips with salsa can transform your meal into a fiesta!
Potato Wedges: Lightly seasoned and baked potato wedges are another crowd-pleaser. They offer that satisfying crunch that pairs beautifully with the casserole.
Substitute Options for the Ingredients
If you find yourself lacking some key ingredients, don’t panic! Here are some substitutes that work in a pinch:
Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. It’s already seasoned and tender.
Sweet Potatoes: Regular potatoes can be used, but they will yield a different flavor. If sweet potatoes aren’t available, try butternut squash.
Buffalo Sauce: In a pinch, you can use any hot sauce you have on hand. Just be mindful of spiciness levels.
Cheddar Cheese: Monterey Jack or Gouda can also work well and bring their unique flavors to the party.
Buffalo Chicken Sweet Potato Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). A hot oven is a happy oven!
- In a large skillet, heat the avocado oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season it with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink, which usually takes about 7-10 minutes. Stir in the buffalo sauce and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- While the chicken is cooking, peel (if desired) and dice the sweet potatoes. Bring a pot of water to a boil and add the sweet potatoes. Cook for about 10 minutes or until fork-tender. Drain and set aside.
- In the same boiling water, add the broccoli florets and blanch for 2-3 minutes until bright green and just tender. Drain and set aside with the sweet potatoes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken (with the buffalo sauce), sweet potatoes, broccoli, turkey bacon, parsley, and half of the cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is well mixed.
- Transfer this mixture into a greased baking dish. Top it with the remaining cheddar cheese and a drizzle of ranch dressing, if you like.
- Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Your friends and family will be drawn to this dish like bees to honey!
Nutrition
Notes
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and vegetables really make a difference in flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Ranch: The ranch dressing gives a delicious creaminess on top! If you’re not a ranch fan, you could also use blue cheese dressing.
- Opt for Sweet Potatoes: They are healthier and add sweetness to the dish. Regular potatoes can be used but won’t provide the same kick.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare this casserole a day in advance. Just assemble it and pop it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake!
- Add More Veggies: Bell peppers or zucchini would work really well in this dish if you want to sneak in more nutrients.
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Buffalo chicken sweet potato casserole is not just a dish; it’s an experience. Full of flavor, packed with nutrition, and easy to throw together, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether serving it at a picnic, a family gathering, or simply to satisfy your cravings, this dish earns its place on any dinner table. I hope you give it a try and see just how enjoyable cooking can be. What’s your favorite way to make it your own? Let me know in the comments! Happy cooking!
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