When you think of comfort food, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? For many, it’s something hearty, cheesy, and oven-baked to golden perfection. Enter the Broccoli Cauliflower Rice Chicken Casserole — a dish that not only checks all those boxes but also gives you a healthier spin on the classic casserole without compromising on flavor. With its low-carb ingredients and gluten-free nature, this casserole brings a new level of comfort that fits perfectly into a balanced diet. Let’s dive into why this recipe is a weeknight winner!
The Journey to Casserole Love
Confession time: casseroles weren’t a staple in my childhood. My family had a thing for keeping ingredients separate—rice, beans, cheese, and salsa all spread out on our plates. We liked to assemble our meals just the way we wanted, whether it was tacos or tostadas. But even though casseroles weren’t really “our thing” back then, I’ve grown to love them. Why? Because there’s something incredibly satisfying about tossing everything into one dish, throwing it in the oven, and letting the magic happen!
This Broccoli Cauliflower Rice Chicken Casserole is exactly the kind of simple, wholesome comfort food that hits the spot every time. Plus, it’s an easy way to use those veggies you’ve been meaning to cook up, while still getting all the cheesy goodness you crave.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Low-Carb and Gluten-Free: For those watching their carbs or avoiding gluten, this recipe ticks both boxes. The cauliflower rice and broccoli provide a healthy, fiber-rich base, while the tender chicken adds lean protein to keep you full and satisfied.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This casserole is not only great for dinner, but it also makes amazing leftovers! It’s the kind of dish you can prep ahead, store in the fridge, and then enjoy for a few days.
- Cheesy Comfort: Let’s be honest, the best part of any casserole is the cheese, and this one delivers. With a combo of mozzarella and Italian blend cheeses, every bite is oozing with that melty, gooey deliciousness.
- Quick & Simple: Even though it’s baked to perfection, this casserole doesn’t demand a lot of hands-on time. After some easy prep work, the oven does most of the heavy lifting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 pounds skinless boneless chicken breasts – Lean, protein-packed, and perfect for absorbing all those delicious flavors.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – To give the chicken a nice, crisp exterior as it bakes.
- 2 10-ounce bags frozen cauliflower rice – A low-carb substitute for traditional rice that helps keep things light without losing substance.
- 1 16-ounce bag frozen broccoli cuts – Adds a pop of color, flavor, and extra nutrients to the mix.
- 2 large eggs, whisked – Helps bind everything together.
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – Because there’s no such thing as too much cheese.
- 2 teaspoons coarse sea salt, garlic powder, and onion powder – These seasonings bring all the flavors together.
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted – Adds richness to the dish.
- 1 cup shredded Italian blend cheese – For a golden, cheesy topping that melts beautifully.
How to Make It
- Prep the Chicken: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and getting your baking dish ready with a light spray of olive oil or non-stick spray. Slice your chicken breasts horizontally so they cook evenly, brush them with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Bake them for about 20 minutes.
- Cook the Veggies: While your chicken is in the oven, heat the cauliflower rice and broccoli according to the package instructions. Make sure to drain any excess water after cooking, so your casserole doesn’t get soggy.
- Chop the Chicken: Once the chicken is baked and slightly cooled, chop it into bite-sized pieces. This makes it easier to mix into the casserole later.
- Mix It Up: In a large bowl, combine the cooked cauliflower rice, broccoli, chicken, eggs, mozzarella cheese, seasonings, and melted butter. Stir everything until well-mixed and all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, then sprinkle the shredded Italian blend cheese on top.
- Bake and Enjoy: Pop the dish into the oven and bake for 50 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and golden brown. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving — this helps the casserole set and makes it easier to slice.
Leftovers That Last
One of the best things about this recipe is how well it keeps in the fridge. In fact, you might find that the flavors deepen even more the next day. You can store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, and it reheats beautifully in the microwave or oven. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep if you’re planning your lunches or dinners ahead for the week.
Recipe card
BROCCOLI CAULIFLOWER RICE CHICKEN CASSEROLE
This low carb and cheesy Broccoli Cauliflower Rice Chicken Casserole recipe is perfect for dinner and makes great leftovers. It’s also gluten free!
Ingredients
2 pounds skinless boneless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 10-ounce bags frozen cauliflower rice (or 1 head of cauliflower, riced and cooked)
1 16-ounce bag frozen broccoli cuts
2 large eggs, whisked
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
2 teaspoons coarse sea salt
2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons onion powder
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1 cup shredded Italian blend cheese
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Lightly spray a 3-quart baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or olive oil. Set aside.
- Cook Chicken: Slice chicken breasts in half horizontally to make them thinner. Lightly coat with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and bake on a baking sheet for 20 minutes. Let cool for 5 minutes, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Prepare Veggies: While chicken is baking, heat frozen cauliflower rice and broccoli according to package instructions. Drain any excess moisture.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine cooked cauliflower rice, broccoli, chopped chicken, whisked eggs, mozzarella cheese, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle shredded Italian blend cheese on top.
- Bake: Bake for 50 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and golden brown. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
A Healthier Casserole Without Sacrificing Flavor
If you’ve ever thought casseroles were just too heavy or carb-loaded for your lifestyle, this Broccoli Cauliflower Rice Chicken Casserole is here to change your mind. The cauliflower rice lightens things up while still giving you that satisfying, hearty texture. And with plenty of protein from the chicken and all the cheesy goodness baked right in, you won’t miss the carbs one bit.
Whether you’re looking for a new go-to dinner or a dish that can keep up with your busy week, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious!