Chicken breast: The lean protein backbone of this casserole. Using cooked and shredded chicken breast ensures a tender, easy-to-eat texture that readily absorbs the buffalo sauce flavors. You can boil, bake, or pan-fry fresh chicken breasts and then shred them, or opt for the ultimate convenience of a store-bought rotisserie chicken. Aim for boneless, skinless chicken for the best results.

Potatoes: Diced and roasted to a beautiful golden perfection, potatoes are the hearty base that soaks up all the deliciousness. Russet or Yukon Gold varieties work wonderfully here due to their fluffy texture when cooked and ability to crisp up on the outside. Dicing them into even, bite-sized pieces ensures consistent cooking and a pleasant mouthfeel in every spoonful.

Buffalo sauce: This is where the magic happens! A good quality buffalo sauce is essential for imparting that signature spicy, tangy kick to the chicken. Choose your favorite brand, whether you prefer a milder version or something with serious heat. You can also customize the intensity by mixing it with a bit of butter or a creamy dressing.

Cheddar cheese: Shredded and melted generously over the top, cheddar cheese adds an indispensable creamy, salty, and cheesy finish. Its sharp, familiar flavor pairs perfectly with the bold buffalo sauce. Freshly shredding your own cheese is often recommended as it melts more smoothly than pre-shredded varieties, which can contain anti-caking agents.

Olive oil: Used to coat the diced potatoes before roasting, olive oil is key to achieving that desired crispy exterior and tender interior. It helps the seasonings adhere to the potatoes and promotes even browning, contributing to the overall delicious texture of the casserole’s base. Extra virgin olive oil offers a nice flavor, but any cooking olive oil will do.

Garlic powder: This provides a subtle, aromatic garlic flavor that enhances the savory profile of the roasted potatoes without adding moisture. It’s an easy way to infuse flavor throughout the potato layer, ensuring every bite is seasoned perfectly. It also prevents the raw garlic from potentially burning during high-heat roasting.

Onion powder: Similar to garlic powder, onion powder adds a foundational layer of savory sweetness to the potatoes. It complements the garlic and other seasonings, creating a rich depth of flavor that makes the roasted potatoes far from bland. Together, garlic and onion powder are a classic flavor combination for roasted vegetables.

Salt: A crucial seasoning that brings out and enhances all the natural flavors of the ingredients. Adjusting salt to taste is important, especially since buffalo sauce can vary in its sodium content. It’s best to season the potatoes and chicken generously but be mindful of adding too much if your buffalo sauce is already quite salty.

Pepper: Adds a touch of warmth and additional seasoning. Freshly ground black pepper is always preferred for its more potent aroma and flavor, contributing a subtle spice that complements the bolder heat of the buffalo sauce without competing with it. It’s a foundational seasoning that rounds out the overall taste profile.

The secret to truly outstanding roasted potatoes in this casserole lies in a crucial technique: ensuring proper spacing on your baking dish. When preparing the potatoes, it’s absolutely essential to spread them out in a single, uncrowded layer on the baking dish. This isn’t merely for aesthetics; it’s fundamental to their texture and flavor.

If potatoes are packed too tightly, they will release moisture during cooking, and this moisture will become trapped within the baking dish. Instead of roasting through dry heat, the potatoes will essentially steam. Steamed potatoes lack the desirable crispy, golden-brown exterior and the fluffy, tender interior that makes roasted potatoes so appealing. They can end up soft, mushy, and uniformly pale, significantly detracting from the casserole’s overall appeal.

To achieve that perfect tender and golden finish, give each potato piece its space. This allows the hot air in the oven to circulate freely around every surface, promoting even cooking and facilitating the Maillard reaction – the chemical process that gives roasted foods their distinctive browned, savory flavor. If you’re making a large batch, don’t hesitate to use two baking dishes to ensure ample space for all the potatoes. Lining your baking dish with parchment paper can also prevent sticking and further aid in achieving that beautiful crispness, making cleanup a breeze. A perfectly roasted potato layer forms the ideal foundation for the spicy buffalo chicken, elevating the entire casserole from good to extraordinary.

• chicken breast – Substitute with turkey breast: Turkey breast is an excellent lean protein alternative, offering a similar mild flavor and tender texture when cooked and shredded. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a slightly different taste or simply have turkey on hand, and it absorbs the buffalo sauce just as beautifully as chicken.

• chicken breast – Substitute with tofu: For a fantastic vegetarian twist, firm or extra-firm tofu can be pressed, cubed, and then pan-fried or baked until slightly crispy. Tofu acts like a sponge, readily soaking up the spicy buffalo sauce and providing a satisfying protein component for a plant-based version of the casserole.

• potatoes – Substitute with sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes offer a delightful change with their natural sweetness and vibrant color. When roasted, they become wonderfully tender and slightly caramelized, providing a unique sweet-and-spicy flavor contrast to the buffalo chicken. Plus, they pack extra nutrients like beta-carotene.

• potatoes – Substitute with cauliflower: For a lower-carb option, diced cauliflower florets can be roasted in place of potatoes. They offer a similar hearty texture when cooked and absorb seasonings well, making for a lighter yet still satisfying casserole base.

• buffalo sauce – Substitute with sriracha mixed with melted butter: If you’re out of traditional buffalo sauce or want to control the spice and richness precisely, a blend of sriracha hot sauce and melted butter can perfectly mimic the tangy heat and velvety texture of classic buffalo sauce. Adjust the ratio to your preferred heat level.

• buffalo sauce – Substitute with barbecue sauce: For a completely different flavor profile, barbecue sauce transforms this into a BBQ chicken and potato casserole. It offers a sweet, smoky, and tangy taste that’s equally comforting and delicious, appealing to those who prefer a less spicy experience.

• cheddar cheese – Substitute with mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella is a classic choice for casseroles, offering a milder, more stretchy, and wonderfully gooey melted texture. It’s a great alternative if you prefer a less sharp cheese flavor, allowing the buffalo chicken to shine even more.

• cheddar cheese – Substitute with pepper jack cheese: If you want to dial up the heat and add an extra layer of spice throughout the casserole, pepper jack cheese is an excellent choice. Its subtle jalapeño kick and excellent melting properties will enhance the overall spicy experience.

• olive oil – Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil is a fantastic alternative for roasting due to its high smoke point and neutral flavor. It won’t impart any distinct taste to your potatoes, allowing the garlic and onion powders to be the dominant aromatics.

• olive oil – Substitute with coconut oil: For a subtle tropical hint and a high smoke point, coconut oil can be used for roasting the potatoes. Ensure you use refined coconut oil if you prefer a less pronounced coconut flavor, or unrefined for a more noticeable taste.

• garlic powder – Substitute with fresh garlic: For a more pungent and vibrant garlic flavor, finely minced fresh garlic can be used. Be mindful that fresh garlic can burn more easily, so keep an eye on it during roasting or add it midway through the potato cooking process.

• garlic powder – Substitute with shallot powder: Shallot powder offers a milder, slightly sweeter, and more delicate onion-garlic flavor profile compared to garlic powder. It’s a great choice for a more nuanced aromatic base.

• onion powder – Substitute with fresh onions: Diced or thinly sliced fresh onions can provide a more robust and textural onion flavor. They will caramelize beautifully during roasting, adding sweetness and depth. Consider sautéing them briefly before adding to the potatoes for a head start.

• onion powder – Substitute with leek powder: Leek powder offers a sweeter and more subtle onion-like flavor than standard onion powder. It provides a sophisticated aromatic background that can elevate the taste of the roasted potatoes.

• salt – Substitute with soy sauce: For an umami-rich salty kick, a dash of soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free) can be used to season the potatoes. It adds a complex, savory depth that can really make the flavors pop. Adjust other salty components accordingly.

• pepper – Substitute with cayenne pepper: If you crave even more heat, a sprinkle of cayenne pepper can replace or supplement the black pepper. It provides a direct and intense spicy kick that will make the casserole even more fiery and exciting for chili lovers.

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing. This crucial step prevents condensation from forming inside the container, which can lead to soggy potatoes and a less appealing texture when reheated. Patience here pays off for quality leftovers.
• Transfer the cooled Buffalo Chicken and Roasted Potato Casserole into an airtight container. For optimal freshness and to prevent freezer burn, ensure the container is freezer-safe if you plan on freezing it. If you have a large casserole dish, you might divide it into several smaller containers for easier portioning.
• For short-term storage, place the airtight container in the refrigerator. The casserole will maintain its delicious flavors and texture for up to 3-4 days. This makes it an excellent meal prep option for busy weekdays.
• For longer preservation, freezing is an excellent option. Once the casserole is completely cooled, transfer it to a dedicated freezer-safe container or wrap the entire baking dish tightly first with aluminum foil, and then with a layer of plastic wrap. This double-layer protection is vital to guard against freezer burn and maintain moisture.
• Always label the container clearly with the date of preparation. This helps you keep track of its freshness and ensures you consume it within the recommended 2-3 months for best quality.
• When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen casserole, the safest and best method for thawing is to transfer it to the refrigerator overnight (about 8-12 hours). Avoid thawing at room temperature for food safety reasons.
• To reheat a thawed casserole in the oven, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If not already in one, transfer the casserole to an oven-safe dish.
• Cover the dish with aluminum foil. This helps to lock in moisture and prevent the cheese topping from over-browning or burning before the rest of the casserole is heated through. Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until it’s hot and bubbling throughout. If you desire a crispy, golden top, remove the foil during the final 5-10 minutes of baking.
• Alternatively, individual portions can be quickly reheated in the microwave. Place a single portion on a microwave-safe plate, cover it loosely with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to prevent it from drying out, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating and continue in 30-second increments until thoroughly hot.

• Oven Method: The oven is often the preferred method for reheating casseroles as it helps maintain the original texture and ensures even heating without drying out the components.

  1. Preheat your oven to a moderate 350°F (175°C). This temperature allows the casserole to heat through gently.
  2. Transfer any leftover buffalo chicken and roasted potato casserole to an oven-safe dish, ideally one that fits the portion snugly.
  3. Cover the dish securely with aluminum foil. This is crucial for trapping moisture and preventing the chicken and potatoes from drying out, ensuring a tender and juicy result.
  4. Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes. The exact time may vary based on the amount of casserole and its starting temperature. You want it heated thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). For that coveted crispy, bubbly cheese top, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking.

• Microwave Method: Ideal for individual servings when you’re short on time, the microwave offers quick reheating, though it may result in a slightly softer potato texture.

  1. Place a single portion of the casserole in a microwave-safe dish. Spreading it out slightly can aid in even heating.
  2. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel. This helps create steam, preventing the casserole from drying out and promoting even warmth.
  3. Heat on medium-high power for 2-3 minutes. Microwaves vary, so it’s always best to start with less time. Stir the casserole halfway through the heating process to redistribute heat and ensure all parts are warmed.
  4. Check the temperature and continue heating in 30-second intervals if needed, until piping hot throughout.

• Stovetop Method: This method is excellent for getting a slightly crispy bottom on your potatoes and chicken, replicating some of the fresh-baked texture.

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. A good quality non-stick pan will prevent sticking.
  2. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the skillet. This adds flavor and helps with browning.
  3. Add the leftover casserole to the skillet, breaking it up slightly and spreading it out evenly.
  4. Cover the skillet with a lid. This traps heat and moisture, allowing the casserole to heat through. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure all components are heated, until hot and any cheese is re-melted.

• Air Fryer Method: For the crispiest results, especially for the potatoes and cheese, the air fryer is a fantastic tool for reheating small portions.

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Allow it to come to temperature for a few minutes.
  2. Place the leftover casserole in the air fryer basket. Ensure it’s in a single layer or as close as possible to allow for even crisping. Overcrowding will lead to steaming rather than crisping.
  3. Heat for 5-7 minutes. Halfway through, gently shake the basket or toss the casserole components to ensure all sides get crispy and heated evenly.
  4. Check for doneness and heat for an additional 2-3 minutes if necessary, until the casserole is hot and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

• Oven: Your primary cooking appliance, used to preheat to 400°F (200°C) for roasting the potatoes and then to bake the assembled casserole to gooey, golden perfection. Ensure your oven is properly calibrated for consistent results.

• Mixing bowl: You’ll need at least one large mixing bowl. One for tossing the diced potatoes with olive oil and spices to ensure every piece is perfectly seasoned, and another for combining the shredded chicken with the buffalo sauce. This “mise en place” approach simplifies the assembly process.

• Baking dish: A sturdy, oven-safe baking dish is crucial. A 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) dish is ideal for spreading the potatoes in a single layer for roasting and then layering the flavorful buffalo chicken mixture and cheese. Glass, ceramic, or metal dishes all work well, but adjust baking times slightly as metal heats faster.

• Knife: A sharp chef’s knife or a good utility knife is essential for precisely dicing the potatoes into even, bite-sized pieces. Even dicing ensures that all potatoes cook at the same rate, preventing some from being undercooked or overcooked.

• Cutting board: A stable and clean cutting board provides a safe and sanitary surface for dicing your potatoes and any other prep work, protecting your countertops and ensuring ease of chopping.

• Measuring cups: Accurate measurement is key for consistent results. These are used to measure out larger quantities like cooked chicken, diced potatoes, buffalo sauce, and shredded cheese, ensuring the right proportions for a balanced dish.

• Measuring spoons: Necessary for measuring smaller quantities of ingredients such as olive oil, garlic powder, and onion powder. Precise measurements of seasonings can make a significant difference in the final flavor profile.

• Wooden spoon: A versatile kitchen tool ideal for gently mixing the ingredients in your bowls without scratching surfaces. It’s also heat-resistant, making it suitable for stirring hot mixtures if needed.

• Cheese grater: If you’re starting with a block of cheddar cheese (highly recommended for superior melting!), a box grater or a rotary grater will be needed to shred it. Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly and has a better texture than pre-shredded varieties.

• Oven mitts: Safety first! A pair of reliable oven mitts or heat-resistant pot holders is indispensable for safely handling the hot baking dish when transferring it to and from the oven, preventing burns.

• Serving spoon: Once your magnificent casserole has cooled slightly, a large serving spoon or spatula will be perfect for dishing out generous portions of this comforting meal, ensuring you get a bit of everything in each serving.

Pre-cook the chicken: The biggest time-saver for this recipe is to use already cooked chicken. Opt for a store-bought rotisserie chicken, which is seasoned and ready to shred, or use leftover chicken from a previous meal. If cooking fresh, consider baking or boiling chicken breasts in advance (even a day ahead) and then shredding them, so they are ready when you start assembling the casserole.

Microwave the potatoes: To significantly reduce the oven time needed for the potatoes, partially cook the diced potatoes in the microwave beforehand. Place them in a microwave-safe bowl with a splash of water, cover, and microwave for 5-7 minutes, or until slightly tender. This jump-starts the cooking process, meaning they’ll only need a shorter roasting period in the oven to become golden and crispy.

Use pre-shredded cheese: While freshly shredded cheese often melts better, using pre-shredded cheddar cheese is a convenient alternative that eliminates the grating step. Just be aware that pre-shredded cheeses sometimes contain anti-caking agents which can affect melt quality, but for a quick casserole, it’s a perfectly acceptable shortcut.

Batch prep ingredients: Embrace the “mise en place” philosophy. Before you even start cooking, prepare and measure all your ingredients. Dice the potatoes, shred the chicken, measure the sauce, and portion the spices. Having everything ready to go will make the assembly process incredibly smooth and quick, streamlining the entire cooking experience.

One-pan method: To minimize cleanup, strategically cook the potatoes and the subsequent chicken mixture in the same baking dish. After roasting the potatoes, simply spread the buffalo chicken mixture over them in the same dish. This saves you from washing an extra mixing bowl and streamlines the layering process, making post-dinner cleanup much easier.