Chicken Cauliflower Rice Casserole Recipe
This Chicken Cauliflower Rice Casserole is a comforting, low-carb meal combining tender shredded chicken with flavorful cauliflower rice and a creamy cheese blend. Baked to perfection with a golden cheddar topping and optional steamed veggies, it’s a hearty and nutritious dish ideal for a wholesome family dinner.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups cauliflower rice
- 4 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Dairy & Fats
- 6 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 0.5 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
Other
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup steamed broccoli or spinach (optional)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish to prevent sticking and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Cook Cauliflower Rice: Add the cauliflower rice to the skillet and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most of the moisture has evaporated. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked cauliflower rice, shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, heavy cream, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. If using, fold in the steamed broccoli or spinach evenly.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top of the mixture.
- Bake Covered: Cover the casserole dish with foil to keep moisture in, and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top is golden and slightly crisp.
- Rest and Garnish: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 to 10 minutes after baking to set. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving for a burst of color and freshness.
Notes
- For a lower-fat option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a lighter milk, but the casserole may be less creamy.
- Optional steamed vegetables like broccoli or spinach add extra nutrients and color to the dish.
- Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for best melting and flavor.
- Cauliflower rice can be store-bought or homemade from grated cauliflower.
- Letting the casserole rest helps it hold together better when served.
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