Irresistible Christmas Chicken Cauliflower Rice Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Irresistible Christmas Chicken Cauliflower Rice Casserole is a festive, healthy twist on a classic comfort dish. Packed with vibrant bell peppers, tender chicken, and cheesy cauliflower rice, it’s perfect for a cozy holiday meal or any time you want a wholesome, flavorful casserole.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
• 4 cups cauliflower rice (fresh or thawed frozen)
• 1 cup diced bell peppers (red and yellow)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tsp paprika
• 2 tsp dried oregano

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté diced bell peppers and minced garlic until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Step 3: Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and add to the skillet along with paprika and oregano. Cook, stirring occasionally, until chicken is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Step 4: Stir in cauliflower rice and chicken broth; mix well and simmer for about 5 minutes to combine flavors and soften the cauliflower.
5. Step 5: Fold in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and evenly distributed, then transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
6. Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Tips & Variations

• Use a mix of colorful bell peppers to brighten the dish and add extra nutrients.
• Substitute sharp cheddar with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a milder flavor.
• For a spicier casserole, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeño when cooking the chicken.
• Fresh cauliflower rice works best, but frozen can be used; just be sure to slightly thaw and drain excess moisture before cooking.

Storage

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or in an oven-safe dish at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute the sharp cheddar with cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gouda depending on your preference. Choose a cheese that melts well for best results.

Is this casserole suitable for a low-carb diet?

Absolutely. Using cauliflower rice instead of regular rice keeps this dish low in carbohydrates while still providing a satisfying texture and flavor.

Irresistible Christmas Chicken Cauliflower Rice Casserole Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 137 reviews

This Irresistible Christmas Chicken Cauliflower Rice Casserole is a delicious, low-carb holiday dish featuring tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, savory cauliflower rice, and melted sharp cheddar cheese. It’s perfect for a festive, healthy meal that combines comforting flavors and wholesome ingredients.

• Author: Nora
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Carb

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Vegetables

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
• 1 cup diced bell peppers (red and yellow)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)

Cauliflower Rice

• 4 cups cauliflower rice (fresh or thawed frozen)

Other Ingredients

• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tsp paprika
• 2 tsp dried oregano

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole later.
2. Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté the diced bell peppers and minced garlic until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Cook Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Add them to the skillet with paprika and dried oregano. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink in the center, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add Cauliflower Rice and Broth: Stir in the cauliflower rice and low-sodium chicken broth. Mix everything well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to combine flavors and allow the cauliflower rice to soften.
5. Incorporate Cheese: Fold in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until it melts into the mixture, creating a creamy texture.
6. Transfer and Bake: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Notes

• You can use fresh or frozen cauliflower rice; if using frozen, thaw completely before cooking.
• Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste before baking if desired.
• For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary.
• This dish is low-carb and gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Keywords: Christmas casserole, chicken casserole, cauliflower rice dish, low carb casserole, holiday dinner, baked chicken casserole, healthy cauliflower recipe