Craving something bold, cheesy, and full of flavor? This Buffalo Chicken and Cheddar Rice dish is the ultimate comfort food with a spicy kick! Tender chicken coated in tangy buffalo sauce is mixed with creamy, cheddar-infused rice for a meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or game day. With minimal ingredients and maximum taste, this dish is sure to become a favorite for anyone who loves the classic combination of buffalo chicken and cheesy goodness. So, grab your ingredients, and let’s dive into making this irresistible recipe!
What is Buffalo Chicken and Cheddar Rice?
Buffalo Chicken and Cheddar Rice is a delicious one-pan dish that combines spicy buffalo chicken with rich, creamy cheddar rice. The dish is inspired by the popular buffalo chicken wings, which are known for their tangy, spicy flavor, but it takes a twist by incorporating cheesy rice to balance out the heat. The result is a comforting and flavorful meal that’s easy to make and perfect for feeding the whole family.
Ingredients List for Buffalo Chicken and Cheddar Rice
For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Buffalo Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- ⅓ cup buffalo sauce (use your favorite brand or make homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheddar Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (or jasmine rice)
- 2 cups chicken broth (or water for a lighter flavor)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup cream cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes:
- Chopped green onions
- Fresh parsley
- Extra buffalo sauce for drizzling
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing (for drizzling or dipping)
Substitutions and Variations
This Buffalo Chicken and Cheddar Rice recipe is easily adaptable, so you can adjust it based on what you have in your kitchen or personal preferences. Here are some substitution ideas and variations:
- Rice Alternatives:
- You can substitute long-grain white rice with brown rice, jasmine rice, or even quinoa for a healthier version. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary.
- For a low-carb option, try using cauliflower rice instead of regular rice. Simply sauté the cauliflower rice separately and mix it in at the end.
- Chicken Variations:
- Swap out chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier texture.
- You can also use rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken. Toss the cooked chicken in buffalo sauce and mix it into the rice when ready.
- Cheese Options:
- While cheddar is classic, feel free to use other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses for extra flavor.
- For a sharper bite, use extra sharp cheddar or mix in some blue cheese crumbles.
- Buffalo Sauce Adjustments:
- Adjust the level of spiciness to your taste by increasing or decreasing the amount of buffalo sauce.
- For a milder version, mix the buffalo sauce with ranch dressing or sour cream to tone down the heat.
- Add Veggies:
- To make this dish more wholesome, you can add vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, or peas. Stir them into the rice during the last 10 minutes of cooking for added nutrition and color.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your Buffalo Chicken and Cheddar Rice:
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season the chicken pieces with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
- Once the chicken is fully cooked, pour in the buffalo sauce and stir to coat the chicken evenly. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and adheres to the chicken.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add the rice and stir to coat the grains in the butter. Toast the rice for 1-2 minutes until it becomes slightly golden.
- Pour in the chicken broth, then add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
- Once the rice is cooked, remove it from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and cream cheese (if using). Mix until the cheeses are fully melted and the rice is creamy.
Step 3: Combine the Chicken and Rice
- Add the cooked buffalo chicken back into the skillet with the cheesy rice.
- Gently fold the chicken into the rice until everything is evenly combined and heated through.
- If desired, drizzle extra buffalo sauce over the top for additional heat.
How to Cook Buffalo Chicken and Cheddar Rice: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking this Buffalo Chicken and Cheddar Rice is simple, but here are a few key tips to keep in mind:
- Cook the Rice Separately: You can also cook the rice separately if you prefer to control the texture more precisely. Just stir in the buffalo chicken and cheese at the end.
- Toast the Rice: Toasting the rice in butter before adding the liquid gives it extra flavor and helps it maintain a better texture.
- Adjust the Heat: If you’re sensitive to spice, use less buffalo sauce or mix it with ranch dressing to mellow out the heat. If you love spice, feel free to drizzle more buffalo sauce or add hot sauce on top.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Chicken: Be careful not to overcook the chicken, as it can become dry. Chicken breasts cook quickly, so remove them from the heat as soon as they’re done to keep them juicy.
- Not Melting the Cheese Properly: Make sure the rice is warm enough for the cheddar and cream cheese to melt smoothly. If needed, return the skillet to low heat while stirring to fully melt the cheese.
- Undercooking the Rice: Always check the rice for doneness before serving. If the rice hasn’t absorbed all the liquid, leave it covered for an additional 5 minutes to steam fully.
Serving and Presentation Tips
This Buffalo Chicken and Cheddar Rice dish is as hearty as it is flavorful. Here’s how to serve it for maximum enjoyment:
- Family-Style: Serve the Buffalo Chicken and Cheddar Rice straight from the skillet, allowing everyone to help themselves. Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or green onions on top for a burst of color.
- Garnishes: Drizzle ranch or blue cheese dressing on top to balance out the heat. Extra buffalo sauce on the side is perfect for those who want a spicier kick.
- Game Day Spread: For a fun party or game day twist, serve this dish in individual bowls with plenty of dipping sauces on the side.
Presentation Ideas for Buffalo Chicken and Cheddar Rice
- Layered Bowl: Serve the cheesy rice as a base and spoon the buffalo chicken on top for a layered look.
- Cheese Topping: For an extra cheesy presentation, sprinkle more shredded cheddar on top and place the skillet under the broiler for a couple of minutes to get a bubbly, golden crust.
- Fresh Garnish: Top with fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or chopped green onions for a fresh, vibrant garnish.
Buffalo Chicken and Cheddar Rice Recipe Tips
- Meal Prep: This dish is perfect for meal prep. Make a large batch and store individual portions in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. It reheats beautifully!
- Make it Creamier: For an even creamier texture, add more cream cheese or stir in a little heavy cream after the rice is cooked.
- Add a Crunch: For a bit of texture contrast, top the dish with crushed tortilla chips or crispy fried onions just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, Buffalo Chicken and Cheddar Rice is great for meal prep! You can store it in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! If you have leftover grilled or rotisserie chicken, simply shred or chop it and toss it in buffalo sauce before adding it to the rice.
Q: Can I freeze Buffalo Chicken and Cheddar Rice?
A: Yes, this dish freezes well. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container and reheat it thoroughly when ready to eat.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A: You can reheat this dish in the microwave or on the stovetop. If the rice seems dry, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen it up and restore its creamy texture.
Conclusion
This Buffalo Chicken and Cheddar Rice is the perfect fusion of spicy buffalo flavor and rich, cheesy comfort. With tender chicken coated in tangy buffalo sauce and creamy cheddar rice, it’s a dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings and leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight dinner or prepping for a party, this dish is easy to make, customizable, and packed with bold flavors. Give it a try, and get ready to make this your new go-to recipe!
PrintBuffalo Chicken And Cheddar Rice Recipe
This Buffalo Chicken and Cheddar Rice recipe combines spicy buffalo chicken, creamy cheddar cheese, and fluffy rice for a flavor-packed, comforting meal. It's quick to prepare and perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Boneless chicken breasts or thighs (cubed)
- Buffalo sauce
- White rice or brown rice (cooked)
- Cheddar cheese (shredded)
- Chicken broth
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Olive oil
- Green onions (for garnish)
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and cook cubed chicken until fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes.
- Season chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, then toss in buffalo sauce until evenly coated.
- In a separate saucepan, bring chicken broth to a simmer and stir in the cooked rice and shredded cheddar cheese until the cheese melts and everything is well combined.
- Add the buffalo chicken to the cheesy rice and stir to combine.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust the level of heat by adding more or less buffalo sauce.
- Substitute white rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
- Add blue cheese crumbles for an extra kick.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 1100mg
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