Dinner

Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice Recipe

BySarah Summers April 22, 2026April 22, 2026

Introduction

Cheesy Buffalo Chicken and Rice is a comforting, flavorful one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. This dish combines tender shredded chicken, spicy buffalo sauce, and creamy cheddar cheese all baked together with fluffy rice. It’s easy to prepare and sure to satisfy any craving for a little heat and melty goodness.

The image shows a white plate filled with a base layer of cooked white rice, soft and slightly sticky in texture. On top of the rice is a thick layer of creamy scrambled eggs mixed with small pieces of chicken, with a light yellow and white color showing. The dish is drizzled with a bright orange sauce evenly across the top, adding a shiny texture, and sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs for a hint of color contrast. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
1/2 cup buffalo sauce (preferably Frank’s RedHot)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup diced celery
1/2 cup diced green onions
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: In a large oven-safe skillet, combine the uncooked rice, chicken broth, buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Stir in the shredded chicken, diced celery, and half of the green onions.
Step 4: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer and cover for 15 minutes.
Step 5: After 15 minutes, remove the lid and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
Step 6: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the top is slightly golden.
Step 7: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with the remaining green onions.

Tips & Variations

Use cooked rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor.
For a milder dish, reduce the buffalo sauce or substitute with a mild hot sauce.
Add extra vegetables like bell peppers or corn for more color and texture.
Swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese if you prefer a spicier kick.
If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, transfer the mixture to a baking dish before placing it in the oven.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave until warm or heat gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of broth or water can help maintain moisture during reheating.

How to Serve

The dish is served on a white plate placed on a white marbled surface. At the bottom, there is a layer of white rice with a soft, slightly sticky texture. On top of the rice, there is a thick layer of scrambled eggs that are light yellow and fluffy, covering the rice completely. Over the eggs, an orange sauce is drizzled in thin lines, adding a wet, glossy texture. There are also small green herbs scattered evenly over the top, adding a fresh touch and color contrast to the orange sauce and yellow eggs. The overall presentation is simple and homey, with a mix of soft and smooth textures. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but brown rice will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust the simmer and baking time accordingly, or cook the brown rice separately before combining with the other ingredients.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

You can freeze it, but the texture of the rice may change slightly. Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing in a sealed container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove or microwave.

Sarah Summers