Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cups cauliflower rice (fresh or frozen and thawed)
- 1 cup low-fat Greek yogurt or light cream cheese
- 1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach or chopped broccoli florets
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: Green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick spray or a little olive oil. If you are using frozen cauliflower rice, make sure it is fully thawed. Place the thawed rice in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible. This step is crucial to prevent the casserole from becoming watery.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken pieces and season them with salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano. Cook for about 5-6 minutes until the chicken is browned on all sides and cooked through. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Continue cooking for another 3 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken mixture, the squeezed cauliflower rice, the spinach or broccoli, the Greek yogurt (or cream cheese), and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until the ingredients are evenly coated in the creamy base. Adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
- Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out in an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the top. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. The cheese should be bubbly and slightly golden brown on the edges. If you want a crispier top, turn on the broiler for the last 2 minutes of cooking.
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the sauce to set slightly. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired. Use a large spatula to scoop out generous portions onto plates. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad or enjoy it as a complete meal on its own.
- Cook Time: 45 minutes