Buffalo Chicken Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

If you are craving a dish that hits all the right notes—spicy, savory, and comforting—then this Buffalo Chicken Sweet Potato Casserole is going to become your new go-to. Combining tender chicken, roasted sweet potatoes, and that irresistible kick of buffalo sauce, it’s a celebration of flavors and textures baked into one hearty casserole. This recipe balances the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the bold zest of buffalo, rounded out by creamy ranch and crispy turkey bacon for a truly unforgettable meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple yet flavorful ingredients is the secret to making this Buffalo Chicken Sweet Potato Casserole truly shine. Each element plays a special role—from the vibrant orange sweet potatoes adding natural sweetness, to the zing of buffalo sauce and the crunch of turkey bacon that brings everything to life.

• Chicken breasts: Lean protein that soaks up the buffalo sauce beautifully for tender, spicy bites.
• Sweet potatoes: Naturally sweet and creamy when roasted, they provide a lovely contrast to the heat.
• Broccoli: Adds a fresh, green crunch and balances the richness of the casserole.
• Buffalo sauce: The star of the show, offering that iconic spicy tang that wakes up every ingredient.
• Avocado or olive oil: Helps everything roast evenly and adds a smooth richness.
• Salt: Enhances all the other flavors without overpowering.
• Pepper: Adds a subtle earthy note that pairs well with the buffalo spice.
• Garlic: Brings aromatic depth and warmth to the dish.
• Cheddar cheese: Melts to create a gooey, savory finish on top of the casserole.
• Green onion: Adds a fresh pop of color and a delicate onion bite.
• Turkey bacon: Adds crispy texture and smoky flavor without too much heaviness.
• Ranch: The perfect creamy topper to cool down and complement the buffalo heat.

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Sweet Potato Casserole

Step 1: Prep and Roast the Sweet Potatoes

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F and greasing a 9×13 casserole dish so nothing sticks during baking. Cut your sweet potatoes into bite-sized pieces to help them cook evenly. Toss half of your buffalo sauce mixture along with the sweet potatoes to coat every piece with that irresistible spicy flavor. Spread them out in the casserole dish in a single layer and roast for 30 minutes, remembering to flip them halfway through to get an even caramelized texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken and Broccoli

While your sweet potatoes begin roasting, cube the chicken breasts and cut the broccoli into florets. Combine these veggies and chicken in the bowl that previously held the sweet potatoes. Add the remaining buffalo sauce and toss everything thoroughly so each piece is coated in that vibrant, tangy heat.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake the Casserole

After your sweet potatoes have roasted for 30 minutes, spread the buffalo-coated chicken and broccoli on top of them in the casserole dish. Place it back in the oven and bake for another 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the broccoli is tender yet crisp.

Step 4: Add Toppings and Finish Baking

Once cooked, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and crispy cooked turkey bacon over the casserole. Return it to the oven for a final 5 minutes so the cheese melts magnificently over the top. This last step creates a gorgeous golden, bubbly crust that perfectly complements the casserole’s spicy goodness.

Step 5: Let it Cool and Serve

Let your Buffalo Chicken Sweet Potato Casserole rest for a few moments after removing it from the oven to set and cool slightly. Once ready, drizzle with ranch or blue cheese dressing to add a creamy, tangy contrast that perfectly tames the fiery buffalo flavors.

How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Sweet Potato Casserole

Garnishes

Adding some fresh garnishes can elevate your Buffalo Chicken Sweet Potato Casserole to the next level. Consider a sprinkle of chopped green onions for brightness, a handful of fresh cilantro for an herby boost, or even some thinly sliced jalapeños if you want to dial up the heat. Don’t forget that cool drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing to create a luscious balance with the spicy buffalo sauce.

Side Dishes

This casserole is pretty hearty on its own, but pairing it with a crisp side salad or some steamed green beans can add freshness and crunch. If you want to keep the comfort food vibe alive, garlic bread or warm cornbread are excellent companions that soak up every bit of sauce and cheese.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Buffalo Chicken Sweet Potato Casserole in individual ramekins for a personalized presentation, making it perfect for dinner parties or family gatherings. You might also layer the ingredients in a clear glass baking dish to showcase the vibrant colors of sweet potato, broccoli, and chicken for a visually stunning centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Buffalo Chicken Sweet Potato Casserole keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors meld even more over time, so reheating it feels like enjoying a freshly made second helping.

Freezing

This casserole freezes wonderfully, making it a fantastic option for meal prepping. Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly in foil and plastic wrap for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat your Buffalo Chicken Sweet Potato Casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly again. If you’re short on time, microwaving individual servings works well too—just cover loosely to avoid drying out.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken or broccoli for this casserole?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry to avoid excess moisture, which can make the casserole watery. Adjust cooking times slightly if needed to ensure everything cooks evenly.

Is there a vegetarian version of this Buffalo Chicken Sweet Potato Casserole?

Yes, you can swap out chicken for hearty chickpeas or roasted cauliflower florets to keep that satisfying texture and absorb the buffalo sauce beautifully. This makes a fantastic plant-based alternative without losing flavor.

Can I make this casserole spicier or milder?

Definitely! Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to suit your heat preference. For a milder version, use less sauce or opt for a milder buffalo sauce variety. If you like extra heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños during assembly.

What kind of buffalo sauce works best?

Traditional buffalo sauce made from hot sauce and melted butter gives the best flavor and richness, but feel free to use your favorite brand or a homemade version. Just keep an eye on the spice level, especially if serving kids or guests with milder tastes.

Is it ok to substitute turkey bacon with regular bacon?

Of course! Regular bacon will add a smokier, richer flavor, so it’s a great substitute if you don’t mind the extra fat. Turkey bacon keeps things a bit lighter while still adding crispness and saltiness to the top of the casserole.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly wonderful about how the Buffalo Chicken Sweet Potato Casserole combines heat, sweetness, and hearty comfort all in one dish. It’s perfect for cozy dinners, meal prepping, or impressing friends at your next gathering. Give this recipe a try and discover just how delicious and satisfying a spicy casserole can be. Once you do, it might just become one of your all-time favorites!

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