Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice

Oh, the weeknight dinner scramble! As a mom of three, I know the drill. You want something hearty, something comforting, and something that doesn’t require a million pots and pans.

There have been countless evenings when I’ve stared into the fridge, wondering how to conjure up a meal that will please everyone without turning my kitchen into a disaster zone. One particularly chilly Tuesday, after a whirlwind of school pickups and soccer practice, I decided to experiment. I had some leftover chicken, a half-used bottle of buffalo sauce, and a deep craving for something cheesy and satisfying.

That night, something magical happened. I threw a few simple ingredients together, and my family devoured it. My picky eater even asked for seconds!

That’s how this incredible, comforting Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice was born. It quickly became a family favorite, a dish that brings smiles, warmth, and a little bit of happy spice to our dinner table.

This Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice recipe is more than just food; it’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for those evenings when you need a simple, nourishing meal that feels truly special. I promise, once you try this Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice, it will earn a permanent spot in your rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’re going to absolutely adore this Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice for so many reasons! First, it’s incredibly simple to make, perfect for busy weeknights when time feels scarce. You cook everything in one pot, which means minimal cleanup – a huge win in my book!

This recipe delivers big, bold flavors that will excite your taste buds, striking that perfect balance between spicy buffalo kick and creamy, rich cheese. It truly is the ultimate comfort food, warming you from the inside out. This Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice offers a complete meal in a single dish, packed with protein, carbs, and deliciousness.

Furthermore, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover cooked chicken, making it even more convenient. You control the spice level, so it’s easily adaptable for both spice lovers and those who prefer a milder flavor. My kids eagerly anticipate Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice night, and I bet yours will too!

This dish guarantees a satisfying, hearty meal that the entire family will request again and again. You will love how simple and satisfying this Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice recipe is.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is the first step towards this delightful Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice. Each component plays a crucial role in building the incredible flavors of this dish.

* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
* 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
* 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
* 1 1/2 cups uncooked long-grain white rice, rinsed
* 3 cups chicken broth
* 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%)
* 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (adjust to your preferred spice level)
* 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
* 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or additional cheddar)
* 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
* 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
* Optional: Drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing for serving

This Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to easily adjust it to your family’s preferences or whatever you have on hand. If you’re intrigued by other creative chicken dishes, check out this delightful Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet for more delicious ideas!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making this Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice is straightforward and enjoyable. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!

1. Prepare the Chicken: First, pat your cubed chicken breast dry with paper towels. Season it generously with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder.

This builds the foundational flavor for your Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice.
2. Brown the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.

Add the seasoned chicken cubes and cook, stirring occasionally, until beautifully browned on all sides and mostly cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3.

Sauté Aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion to the same skillet, adding a touch more oil if needed. Sauté the onion until it softens and becomes translucent, about 3-5 minutes.

Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Don’t let the garlic burn; it adds a crucial layer to your Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice.
4.

Add Rice and Liquids: Stir in the rinsed long-grain white rice, making sure it coats evenly with the onion and garlic. Pour in the chicken broth and milk. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet – these bits hold so much flavor!

5. Simmer and Cook: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet tightly, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Avoid lifting the lid too often; consistent steam is key to perfectly cooked rice for your Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice.

6. Combine and Finish: Once the rice is cooked, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir in the buffalo sauce and butter.

Mix everything gently until well combined and the butter melts.
7. Add the Cheese: Sprinkle both shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses over the top of the Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice.

Place the lid back on the skillet for 2-3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt into a glorious, gooey layer.
8. Serve: Remove from heat, give it a final gentle stir to incorporate the melted cheese, and let it rest for a couple of minutes.

Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired, and serve immediately. Enjoy your amazing Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice!

Pro Tips for Success

Achieving the perfect Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice involves a few simple tricks that make all the difference. These tips ensure your dish comes out flavorful, creamy, and utterly irresistible every time.

* Rinse Your Rice: Always rinse your long-grain white rice thoroughly under cold water before cooking. This removes excess starch, preventing the rice from becoming gummy or sticky and ensuring a fluffy texture in your Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice.
* Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Brown the chicken cubes until just cooked through.

They will continue to cook a bit when added back to the rice, so slightly undercooking them initially prevents dry, tough chicken in your Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice.
* Quality Buffalo Sauce Matters: The flavor of your Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice heavily depends on the buffalo sauce. Use a brand you love.

Frank’s RedHot is a classic choice for its authentic flavor.
* Shred Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can make them melt less smoothly. Shredding your own sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack ensures a creamier, richer melt for your Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice.

* Resist the Urge to Peek: While the rice simmers, avoid lifting the lid. Every time you peek, steam escapes, which can lengthen the cooking time and result in unevenly cooked rice. Let it do its magic undisturbed.

* Adjust Liquid if Needed: If your rice seems too dry before it’s tender, add a small splash of hot broth or water. If it’s too soupy, remove the lid for the last few minutes of cooking to allow some liquid to evaporate, or simply let it rest longer off the heat. This helps perfect the consistency of your Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice.

* Let it Rest: After cooking and melting the cheese, let the Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice sit off the heat, covered, for 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld, and the rice to fully absorb any remaining liquid, resulting in a more cohesive and delicious dish.
* Taste and Adjust: Always taste your Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice before serving. Adjust seasoning (salt, pepper, extra buffalo sauce) as needed to suit your preference.

Achieving the perfect Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice involves a few simple tricks that make all the difference. For an equally tasty take on cheesy goodness, don’t miss these Tasty Cheesy Crab Shrimp Tortilla Bombs that are sure to impress!

Storage & Reheating Tips

This Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice tastes fantastic as leftovers, making it perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch the next day. Proper storage and reheating ensure you enjoy every bit of its deliciousness.

* Storage: Once cooled to room temperature, transfer any leftover Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This makes it a fantastic option for planned meals throughout the week.

* Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions of Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It freezes well for up to 2-3 months.

Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
* Reheating in the Microwave: This is the quickest method. Place a single serving of Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice in a microwave-safe dish.

Add a tablespoon or two of water or chicken broth to prevent drying out. Cover loosely and microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through.
* Reheating on the Stovetop: For larger quantities or a creamier texture, reheat Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice in a skillet over medium-low heat.

Add a splash of chicken broth or milk to help rehydrate the rice and prevent sticking. Stir frequently until thoroughly warmed.
* Reheating in the Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).

Place the Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice in an oven-safe dish. Add a bit of broth or water, cover it tightly with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps maintain moisture and prevents the rice from drying out.

* Preventing Dryness: Rice-based dishes can sometimes dry out upon reheating. Always add a small amount of liquid (water, broth, or milk) when reheating to bring back that creamy texture to your Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice.

What to Serve With This Recipe

The robust flavors of Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice pair beautifully with simple, fresh sides that offer a cooling contrast or a complementary crunch. Think about balancing the richness and spice with light and refreshing elements.

* Cooling Dips: A generous dollop of ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing is practically a must! Their creamy tanginess perfectly complements the spicy buffalo flavor of the Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice.
* Crisp Vegetables: Celery sticks and carrot sticks are classic buffalo chicken companions.

Their crisp texture and mild flavor provide a refreshing counterpoint to the rich Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice.
* Simple Green Salad: A fresh mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette or a creamy ranch dressing offers a wonderful textural and flavor contrast. The greens cut through the richness of the Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice.

* Corn on the Cob or Roasted Corn: The sweetness of corn provides a lovely balance to the spice. Serve it on the cob in summer, or enjoy roasted corn kernels any time of year with your Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice.
* Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans: Lightly steamed or roasted green vegetables offer a nutritious side that doesn’t compete with the main dish.

A squeeze of lemon on them adds brightness.
* Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw can be a fantastic addition, offering crunch and a cool, tangy contrast to the warm, spicy Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice.
* Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls: For those who love to soak up every last bit of delicious sauce, a piece of warm garlic bread or a soft dinner roll is always welcome with Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice.

The robust flavors of Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice pair beautifully with simple, fresh sides that offer a cooling contrast or a complementary crunch. Consider adding some Fluffy Cheesy Garlic Bread to your meal for an extra layer of deliciousness!

FAQs

Can I make this Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice ahead of time?

Absolutely! This Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice recipe is great for making ahead. Prepare the entire dish, let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or stovetop with a splash of liquid to prevent drying.

What kind of rice works best for Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice?

Long-grain white rice, such as basmati or jasmine, works best for this Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice recipe. It cooks quickly and yields a fluffy texture that absorbs the flavors beautifully. Brown rice can be used, but it will require more liquid and a longer cooking time.

How can I make this Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice spicier?

To make your Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice spicier, you have a few options: increase the amount of buffalo sauce, add a pinch of cayenne pepper with the seasonings, or stir in a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce during the last few minutes of cooking. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes on top also works!

Is this Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice freezer-friendly?

Yes, this Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice is freezer-friendly! Cooked and cooled portions can be stored in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat with a bit of added liquid for best results.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken in this Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice recipe?

Absolutely! Using pre-cooked shredded chicken (like rotisserie chicken) is a fantastic shortcut. Add about 3 cups of shredded chicken to the skillet during step 6, when you add the buffalo sauce and butter, just to warm through. This significantly speeds up the prep time for your Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice.

What if my Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice is too soupy or too dry?

If your Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice is too soupy, remove the lid and continue to simmer on low heat for an extra few minutes, allowing more liquid to evaporate. If it’s too dry, stir in a small amount (1/4 to 1/2 cup) of additional hot chicken broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency.

Is Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice good for meal prep?

This Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice makes an excellent meal prep option! Its flavors deepen over time, and it reheats beautifully. Divide cooled portions into airtight containers for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice is a savory dish that combines the rich, spicy flavors of buffalo chicken with creamy, cheesy rice. You can learn more about the fusion of flavors in this popular comfort food by exploring the details on comfort food.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Please note that these are estimated nutritional values and can vary based on specific ingredient brands, exact measurements, and substitutions. This information is provided as a general guide for one serving of Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice.

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	450-500 kcal
Protein	35-40 g
Total Fat	18-22 g
Saturated Fat	10-12 g
Cholesterol	90-100 mg
Sodium	1000-1200 mg
Total Carbohydrates	40-45 g
Dietary Fiber	1-2 g
Total Sugars	2-4 g

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