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Healthy Baked Buffalo Chicken Casserole: A Delicious Twist on a Classic

If you’re searching for a hearty dish that bursts with flavour while still being kind on your waistline, look no further than a Healthy Baked Buffalo Chicken Casserole. This dish cleverly combines the classic appeal of buffalo chicken with wholesome ingredients to create a satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding the family or hosting friends for game night, this casserole is sure to impress!

Ingredients

To prepare this scrumptious casserole, you will need the following ingredients:

• 500g cooked chicken breast, shredded (you can use rotisserie chicken for convenience)
• 200g whole grain pasta (penne or fusilli work well)
• 1 cup buffalo sauce (adjust based on your spice tolerance)
• 240ml low-fat Greek yoghurt
• 1 cup reduced-fat cheese, shredded (cheddar or mozzarella)
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, and corn)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh chives or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 190°C (375°F). This ensures your casserole will bake evenly and develop that lovely golden top.

2. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the whole grain pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, Greek yoghurt, garlic powder, onion powder, and mixed vegetables. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.

4. Combine Pasta and Chicken: Fold the cooked pasta into the chicken mixture, ensuring that every piece is well coated with the delicious sauce.

5. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the pasta and chicken mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly, and then sprinkle the reduced-fat cheese generously over the top.

6. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.

7. Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, let the casserole sit for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped chives or parsley for an added touch of freshness before serving.

Why You’ll Love It

This Healthy Baked Buffalo Chicken Casserole strikes just the right balance between indulgent and nutritious. Here are a few reasons why it deserves a place on your dinner table:

• Nutritious Ingredients: By using shredded chicken breast and Greek yoghurt, you’re packing protein into the dish while keeping the fat content lower. Whole grain pasta adds fibre, making it a more filling option compared to traditional white pasta.

• Customisable: The recipe is versatile. Feel free to swap out the vegetables for whatever you have on hand or prefer. Spinach, broccoli, or even zucchini could be delightful additions.

• Easy to Prepare: This casserole comes together quickly, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners. You can even prep it in advance and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.

• A Family Favourite: The comforting flavours of buffalo chicken make this dish a hit with both adults and children. Pair it with a side salad for a well-rounded meal.

Final Thoughts

Incorporating healthy dishes into your meal rotation doesn’t mean sacrificing flavour or satisfaction. This Healthy Baked Buffalo Chicken Casserole proves that with the right ingredients, you can enjoy all the deliciousness of your favourites in a more wholesome form. So, grab your ingredients and get baking—you won’t regret it!