Looking for a dish that combines the zesty heat of buffalo chicken with the creamy goodness of cheddar rice? This Buffalo Chicken and Cheddar Rice recipe is the ultimate comfort food, packed with bold flavors, tender chicken, and gooey melted cheese. It’s a one-pan meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, game day gatherings, or anytime you’re craving a cheesy, spicy dish. Ready to give your taste buds a treat? Let’s dive into the recipe!
What is Buffalo Chicken and Cheddar Rice?
Buffalo Chicken and Cheddar Rice is a one-pan dish where shredded or diced buffalo chicken is mixed with creamy, cheesy rice and topped with extra cheese for a gooey, baked finish. The dish combines spicy buffalo sauce with creamy cheddar cheese for an indulgent yet simple meal that’s perfect for chicken and cheese lovers alike. This meal is easy to prepare, making it a great option for busy nights or for when you want a hearty dish that packs a flavor punch.
Ingredients List for Buffalo Chicken and Cheddar Rice
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious, spicy, and cheesy dish:
For the Buffalo Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or about 2 cups shredded chicken)
- ½ cup buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade, such as Frank's RedHot)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Cheddar Rice:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup long-grain rice (white or brown)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- ¼ cup sour cream
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish (Optional):
- Chopped green onions
- Crumbled blue cheese
- Extra buffalo sauce
Substitutions and Variations for Buffalo Chicken and Cheddar Rice
This recipe is very versatile, allowing for substitutions based on your dietary preferences or available ingredients. Here are a few ideas:
- Use Leftover Chicken:
If you have leftover rotisserie chicken or grilled chicken, simply shred it and toss it in the buffalo sauce to save time. - Rice Variations:
Swap white rice with brown rice for a healthier option. Keep in mind, brown rice will take longer to cook. You could also use cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative. - Cheese Choices:
While cheddar cheese gives the dish its creamy texture, you can also mix in mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for an extra kick. - Spice Level:
Adjust the heat by adding more or less buffalo sauce. If you prefer extra spice, toss in a dash of cayenne pepper or some hot sauce to amp up the heat. - Protein Swap:
This dish also works with other proteins like shredded rotisserie chicken, turkey, or even ground chicken or turkey. - Make it Vegetarian:
Swap the chicken for buffalo-spiced tofu or chickpeas to create a vegetarian version of this dish.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Buffalo Chicken and Cheddar Rice

- Cook the Chicken:
If using raw chicken breasts, season them with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Remove the chicken from the skillet, let it rest for a few minutes, and then shred or dice it. Toss the cooked chicken with the buffalo sauce and set aside. - Cook the Onions and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. - Prepare the Rice:
Stir the rice into the skillet with the onions and garlic, and cook for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast the rice. This will add a subtle nuttiness to the dish. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Cook the rice for 15-18 minutes (or according to package instructions), until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. - Make it Creamy:
Once the rice is cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the heavy cream, sour cream, smoked paprika (if using), and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir well until the cheese is melted and the rice is creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. - Combine the Chicken and Rice:
Add the buffalo chicken to the skillet with the cheesy rice, and gently fold everything together until the chicken is evenly distributed. - Top with Cheese and Bake (Optional):
If you prefer a baked finish, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the chicken and rice mixture. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. - Serve:
Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions, extra buffalo sauce, crumbled blue cheese, or a drizzle of ranch dressing if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
How to Cook Buffalo Chicken and Cheddar Rice: A Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s a quick recap of the key steps to ensure your Buffalo Chicken and Cheddar Rice turns out perfectly:
- Cook the chicken: Sear the chicken to perfection, then toss it in buffalo sauce for that signature flavor.
- Sauté the aromatics: Lightly toast the rice with onions and garlic to enhance flavor.
- Cook the rice with broth: Let the rice absorb all the liquid and develop a creamy texture.
- Add cheese for creaminess: Stir in cheese and cream to create a luscious, cheesy rice base.
- Top with cheese and bake (optional): For extra cheesy goodness, bake the dish until bubbly and golden.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Chicken:
Be careful not to overcook the chicken breasts, as this can make them dry. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C), and the chicken should be moist and tender. - Undercooking the Rice:
Make sure the rice is fully cooked and tender before adding the cheese and chicken. If the rice is undercooked, it may still have a crunchy texture, which can be unpleasant in a creamy dish. - Not Adjusting the Spice Level:
Buffalo sauce can range in spiciness depending on the brand, so be sure to taste the sauce before adding too much. You can always add more buffalo sauce or a dash of hot sauce if you prefer a spicier dish.
Serving and Presentation Tips for Buffalo Chicken and Cheddar Rice
This dish is hearty enough to stand on its own, but here are some ideas to round out the meal:
- Serve with a Side Salad:
A simple green salad with ranch dressing can provide a cool, refreshing contrast to the spicy buffalo chicken. - Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls:
Serve with warm garlic bread or soft dinner rolls to soak up the creamy, cheesy rice. - Veggies on the Side:
Steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, or sautéed spinach would make great sides to complement the richness of the dish.
Presentation Ideas for Buffalo Chicken and Cheddar Rice
For a dish this bold and flavorful, here are some ideas to make it look just as good as it tastes:
- Cast-Iron Skillet:
Serve the buffalo chicken and cheddar rice straight from a cast-iron skillet for a rustic, family-style presentation. It keeps the dish warm and looks great on the table. - Individual Bowls:
Serve the dish in individual bowls, drizzled with extra buffalo sauce and garnished with chopped green onions or crumbled blue cheese for a personalized touch. - Garnish with Fresh Herbs:
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro can brighten up the dish and add a pop of color to the creamy, cheesy rice.
Buffalo Chicken and Cheddar Rice Recipe Tips
- Use Pre-Cooked Chicken:
Save time by using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken. Simply shred it and toss with buffalo sauce before adding it to the rice. - Add Extra Veggies:
You can bulk up this dish by adding vegetables like diced bell peppers, corn, or spinach into the rice for extra nutrition and flavor. - Meal Prep-Friendly:
This dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prepping. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes! You can substitute brown rice for white rice, but keep in mind that it will take longer to cook (about 35-40 minutes). Be sure to adjust the liquid and cooking time accordingly. - Is this recipe spicy?
The dish gets its heat from buffalo sauce, so the spiciness depends on how much buffalo sauce you use and the brand. If you prefer less heat, use a milder buffalo sauce or reduce the amount. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator, then reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to serve. - How do I make the dish less rich?
To lighten up the dish, you can use milk instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese. This will give you a creamier consistency without being too heavy.
Conclusion
Buffalo Chicken and Cheddar Rice is a flavorful and comforting dish that combines the spicy kick of buffalo chicken with the creamy, cheesy goodness of cheddar rice. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a game day gathering, or meal prepping for the week, this one-pan meal is sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings. With easy-to-follow steps and customizable options, this dish can be tailored to suit your taste. Give it a try, and get ready to enjoy a new favorite comfort food recipe!
PrintBuffalo Chicken and Cheddar Rice Recipe
Buffalo Chicken and Cheddar Rice is a flavorful one-pan dish featuring tender chicken tossed in spicy Buffalo sauce and mixed with creamy cheddar rice. This easy recipe combines bold flavors for a quick and satisfying meal perfect for weeknight dinners or game day!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One-Pan, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup Buffalo sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup cream cheese
- ¼ cup green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup blue cheese crumbles (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add rice and toast for 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in chicken broth and Buffalo sauce, bringing it to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15-18 minutes, until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in cheddar cheese and cream cheese until melted and creamy.
- Add cooked chicken back to the skillet, mixing to combine.
- Garnish with green onions and blue cheese crumbles (if using), and serve hot.
Notes
For a milder dish, reduce the amount of Buffalo sauce or use a mix of Buffalo sauce and ranch dressing. You can also swap chicken breast for ground chicken or turkey for a different texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1 ½ cups)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 1200mg
Leave a Reply