Cheesy Chicken Cauliflower Rice Casserole Recipe
This Chicken Cauliflower Rice Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting low-carb dish packed with shredded chicken, sautéed cauliflower rice, and flavorful seasonings. It features a melty cheddar cheese topping and optional veggies like spinach or mushrooms, making it a perfect healthy meal for busy weeknights or anytime you crave a hearty casserole with a light twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Dairy
- 2 cups shredded chicken (rotisserie or cooked chicken breast)
- 4 oz cream cheese (or 1/2 cup Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Vegetables
- 4 cups cauliflower rice (fresh or thawed from frozen)
- Optional: 1 cup spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli, lightly sautéed
Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. If your chicken is not cooked, cook and shred it now. Prepare your cauliflower rice if using fresh, or thaw it if frozen.
- Cook the Cauliflower Rice: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cauliflower rice and sauté for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and most of the moisture has evaporated to avoid a soggy casserole.
- Mix the Casserole Base: In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, cooked cauliflower rice, cream cheese or Greek yogurt, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. If using optional vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms, lightly sauté them first and then mix into the base.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Bake the casserole uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly around the edges. Once baked, allow the casserole to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving to set properly.
Notes
- Sauté cauliflower rice thoroughly to remove excess moisture and prevent a watery casserole.
- Use full-fat cream cheese for a richer, creamier texture; Greek yogurt adds protein and reduces fat.
- Shred your own cheese if possible for better melting.
- Lightly sauté optional vegetables to maintain beneficial texture and flavor balance.
- Adjust seasoning before baking to taste.
- This recipe can be halved and baked in an 8×8-inch dish with slightly reduced baking time.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze portions before or after baking.
- Reheat in the microwave or oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Keywords: Chicken casserole, cauliflower rice, low carb dinner, creamy casserole, cheesy chicken bake, healthy comfort food, easy weeknight meal
