Chicken casserole with cauliflower and jalapeno

Chicken casserole with cauliflower and jalapeno blends tender chicken thighs with creamy cheeses, spicy jalapenos, and wholesome cauliflower for a satisfying dish. It's baked until bubbly and golden, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

29 Jan 2026
Cook time 32 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

8 chicken thighs
1/2 tsp olive oil
4 oz cream cheese
4 tbsp light sour cream
4 oz cheddar cheese
1/4 cup cherry tomatoes
1.50 tsp chili powder
1 cauliflower
1 tbsp grated parmesan cheese
2 dash salt
2 dash black pepper
1 jalapeno pepper

Chicken casserole with cauliflower and jalapeno is a delightful and flavorful dish that combines the richness of cream cheese and cheddar with the slight heat from jalapeno and the wholesome goodness of cauliflower. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a get-together with friends. The blend of spices and creamy textures makes it a comfort food favorite without the guilt of too many carbs.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare the Chicken:
- Trim any excess fat from the chicken thighs.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken thighs to the skillet and season with a dash of salt and pepper.
- Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and golden brown.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet, let it cool slightly, and then shred the chicken using two forks or chop it into small pieces.

3. Prepare the Cauliflower:
- While the chicken is cooking, place the cauliflower florets in boiling water or steam them for about 5-7 minutes until tender.
- Drain and set aside.

4. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, light sour cream, and grated cheddar cheese.
- Mix well until smooth and creamy.
- Stir in the chili powder and another dash of salt and pepper.

5. Assemble the Casserole:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked cauliflower florets, cherry tomatoes, and chopped jalapeno pepper.
- Pour the cheese mixture over the chicken and vegetables. Mix thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly coated.

6. Bake the Casserole:
- Transfer the mixture into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese on top.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

7. Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with additional cherry tomatoes and jalapenos if desired, and enjoy your Chicken Casserole with Cauliflower and Jalapeno!

Once your chicken casserole with cauliflower and jalapeno is golden and bubbly, it's ready to serve. This dish is sure to be a hit with its combination of flavors and textures. Enjoy it as a hearty meal that brings a bit of spice and a lot of comfort to your dining table.

Chicken casserole with cauliflower and jalapeno FAQ:

What is the baking time for the chicken casserole?

The chicken casserole should be baked in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Chicken thighs should be cooked until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). They should also be golden brown on the outside and no longer pink inside.

Can I store leftovers of the chicken casserole, and how?

Yes, leftover chicken casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

What can I substitute for cream cheese in this recipe?

You can substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative, though the taste and texture may vary slightly.

What size baking dish should I use for this casserole?

A large baking dish, approximately 9x13 inches or equivalent, works well for this casserole to accommodate all the ingredients comfortably.

Tips:

- For an extra crispy topping, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.

- If you prefer a milder dish, remove the seeds from the jalapeno before adding it to the casserole.

- Swap out the sour cream for Greek yogurt to make the dish slightly healthier.

- Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking to make it easier to serve.

- Feel free to add a squeeze of fresh lime juice and cilantro on top for an added burst of freshness.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 420kcal
Protein 27g
Carbohydrates 6g
Fiber 1.27g
Sugar 2.37g
Fat 33g

Chicken casserole with cauliflower and jalapeno