Spicy Buffalo Chicken & Cheddar Rice Recipe That Sizzles

Crafting a mouthwatering buffalo chicken and cheddar rice dish promises pure culinary excitement for spice enthusiasts.

Bold flavors dance across your plate with unexpected zest.

Comfort meets heat in this incredible combination that breaks traditional recipe boundaries.

Creamy cheese melts into perfectly seasoned chicken, creating a harmonious blend of textures.

Weeknight dinners never looked so deliciously inviting with this simple yet impressive meal.

Chili-infused goodness will have everyone asking for seconds before the first bite disappears.

You’ll want to savor every single spoonful of this irresistible recipe.

FAQs

• Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, thaw the chicken completely before cooking and pat it dry to ensure proper browning and even cooking.

• How spicy is this dish?

The heat level depends on the buffalo sauce you choose. Use mild sauce for less heat or add more for extra spiciness.

• What if I don't have chicken broth?

You can substitute with water or vegetable broth, but chicken broth adds more flavor to the rice.

• Is this recipe gluten-free?

Check your buffalo sauce and broth labels, as some brands contain gluten. Use gluten-free alternatives if needed.

Buffalo Chicken and Cheddar Rice Full of Zest

• Spice Up Your Meal: Dive into a flavor-packed dish that brings zesty buffalo chicken and creamy cheese together in one satisfying skillet.
• Quick Kitchen Magic: Prepare a delicious dinner in less than 30 minutes with minimal dishes and simple ingredients everyone loves.
• Customize Your Comfort: Easily adjust the heat level by changing buffalo sauce intensity or swap cheeses to match your family's taste preferences.
• One-Pan Wonder: Streamline your cooking process with a single skillet that goes from stovetop to table, reducing cleanup and making mealtime stress-free.

Ingredients for Buffalo Chicken and Cheddar Rice

• Chicken: Boneless and diced, the protein provides a hearty and flavorful base for the dish.

• Rice: White rice serves as the foundational grain for this creamy and spicy recipe.

• Olive Oil, Butter: These fats help develop rich flavor and prevent sticking during cooking.
• Chicken Broth: Adds depth and moisture to the rice while cooking.
• Buffalo Sauce: Brings a tangy and spicy kick to the entire dish.

• Cream Cheese: Creates a smooth and luxurious texture in the rice mixture.
• Cheddar Cheese: Provides a sharp and melty cheese flavor throughout the dish.

• Salt, Pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the chicken and rice.
• Green Onions: Offer a fresh and mild onion flavor as a garnish.
• Ranch Dressing: Optional topping that adds a cool and creamy element.

How to Make Buffalo Chicken and Cheddar Rice

Step 1: Sizzle and Season Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Sprinkle chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown and completely done, stirring occasionally for about 5-7 minutes.

Transfer cooked chicken to a separate plate.

Step 2: Toast Rice in Butter

Using the same skillet, melt butter and add rice.

Gently stir to coat each grain with butter, allowing rice to lightly toast for 1-2 minutes.

Step 3: Simmer Rice to Perfection

Pour chicken broth into the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer.

Cover the skillet and let rice cook until tender and fluffy, approximately 15 minutes.

Step 4: Create Creamy Buffalo Cheese Sauce

• Cream cheese
• Cheddar cheese

Stir continuously until cheese melts completely and sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Combine and Garnish

Return cooked chicken to the skillet and gently mix with cheesy rice.

Top with chopped green onions and drizzle ranch dressing if desired.

Serve immediately while hot and bubbling.

Tips for Buffalo Chicken and Cheddar Rice

• Pat chicken dry before seasoning to ensure a golden-brown, crispy exterior that locks in flavor.
• Adjust buffalo sauce quantity based on spice preference, using mild or adding extra for more kick.
• Remove skillet from heat when adding cheeses to prevent scorching and create smooth, creamy texture.
• Let rice rest covered for 5 minutes after cooking to absorb remaining moisture and become fluffy.
• Sprinkle extra shredded cheddar on top just before serving for added cheesy goodness and visual appeal.

Flavor Variations for Buffalo Chicken and Cheddar Rice

• Spicy Vegetarian Rice Bowl: Replace chicken with crispy tofu cubes, using buffalo sauce and vegetable broth for a plant-based version.
• Mediterranean Chicken Rice: Swap buffalo sauce for sun-dried tomato paste, use feta cheese instead of cheddar, and add kalamata olives and fresh herbs.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Alternative: Substitute rice with cauliflower rice, keeping the same chicken and cheese ingredients for a keto-friendly option.
• Dairy-Free Zesty Rice: Use dairy-free cheese alternatives, coconut milk instead of cream cheese, and gluten-free hot sauce for those with dairy restrictions.

Serving Suggestions for Buffalo Chicken and Cheddar Rice

• Flavor Fiesta Plating: Serve this zesty dish in colorful bowls to highlight the vibrant buffalo chicken and melted cheese combination.
• Touchdown Party Spread: Perfect for game day gatherings, pair with crispy celery sticks, blue cheese dip, and extra hot sauce for guests who love heat.
• Meal Prep Magic: Pack individual portions in meal prep containers for a delicious lunch that stays exciting and tasty throughout the week, keeping chicken and rice separate to maintain texture.
• Comfort Food Upgrade: Complement the dish with a light side salad or quick pickled vegetables to balance the rich, creamy rice and spicy buffalo chicken flavors.

Storage Advice for Buffalo Chicken and Cheddar Rice

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Cool the dish completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Transfer cooled buffalo chicken rice to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.
• Place portion in microwave-safe dish, sprinkle few tablespoons water to prevent drying. Cover with microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel. Heat at 50% power for 1-2 minutes, stirring midway.

Buffalo Chicken And Cheddar Rice Recipe

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4.5 from 9 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Hearty buffalo chicken and cheddar rice brings spicy comfort to classic home cooking. Home chefs can craft this zesty one-pot meal quickly for satisfying dinner enjoyment.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced

Base Ingredients:

• 1 cup white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth

Flavor and Topping Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup cream cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• Ranch dressing (optional)

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Instructions

1. Warm olive oil in a spacious pan over medium-high heat, then carefully sauté diced chicken seasoned with salt and pepper until golden and thoroughly cooked, approximately 5-7 minutes.
2. Using the same pan, gently melt butter and introduce rice, stirring to ensure each grain is evenly coated with butter, allowing it to toast lightly for 1-2 minutes.
3. Pour chicken broth into the pan, bringing the liquid to a gentle simmer. Cover and allow rice to steam until tender and fluffy, roughly 15-18 minutes.
4. Incorporate buffalo sauce, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until the mixture becomes smooth and fully integrated.
5. Return cooked chicken to the pan, gently folding it into the creamy rice mixture to distribute evenly.
6. Garnish with freshly chopped green onions and optionally drizzle ranch dressing over the top for extra flavor.
7. Serve immediately while the dish remains hot and the cheese is still melted.

Notes

• Customize heat levels by adjusting buffalo sauce quantity for mild or spicy preferences.
• Swap white rice with brown rice or quinoa for added nutritional value and different texture.
• Use rotisserie chicken as a time-saving alternative to cooking chicken from scratch.
• Ensure chicken reaches internal temperature of 165°F to guarantee food safety when cooking.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 470 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 820 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
• Trans Fat: 0.3 g
• Carbohydrates: 33 g
• Fiber: 1.5 g
• Protein: 38 g
• Cholesterol: 105 mg