Paleo Chicken Broccoli "Rice" Casserole

This creamy Paleo chicken, broccoli, and rice casserole is packed with flavor and filling. It’s Whole30 compliant, keto, dairy-free, and perfect to make ahead for easy lunches and dinners.

Paleo Chicken Broccoli
Paleo Chicken Broccoli "Rice" Casserole

This creamy Paleo chicken, broccoli, and rice casserole is packed with flavor and filling. It’s Whole30 compliant, keto, dairy-free, and perfect to make ahead for easy lunches and dinners.

  • Preparing Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Served Person: 6

Step-by-step

  • Preheat your oven to 425 degrees.
  • Place chicken on a baking sheet and coat with 1 1/2 Tbsp olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
  • On a separate baking sheet lined with parchment paper, arrange broccoli and toss with 1 1/2 Tbsp avocado oil plus salt and pepper.
  • Roast chicken for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through. Midway through, flip the chicken for even roasting.
  • Roast broccoli for 15-20 mins or until fork tender, stirring midway through.
  • Once done, lower the oven temp to 400 degrees.
  • While chicken and broccoli roasts, cook bacon until crisp in a large skillet, drain, and make the sauce:
  • For the sauce, heat a medium saucepan over medium heat and add the 3 Tbsp cooking fat. Add the onions, cook until translucent and fragrant, then add the garlic and continue to cook until soft, adjusting heat if necessary.
  • Whisk the tapioca flour into the broth and add it to the pan, then immediately add the coconut milk, mustard, and nutritional yeast (if using), while whisking.
  • Raise the heat and bring to a boil, stirring. Once boiling, lower to a simmer and continue to stir and cook for another minute, until nice and thick.
  • Stir in salt and pepper to taste, add the fresh herbs.
  • Stir in the cauliflower rice to soften, then remove from heat.
  • Cut the chicken into bite-size pieces, or shred, and arrange in a casserole dish, then add the roasted broccoli and the sauce/rice mixture, stir to evenly coat.
  • Crumble the cooked bacon and sprinkle all over, then bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, until heated through and cauliflower rice is soft.
  • Serve hot and enjoy!
Paleo Chicken Broccoli "Rice" Casserole: A Weeknight Winner

My Go-To Weeknight Paleo Meal: Chicken Broccoli "Rice" Casserole

As a busy working mom, finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals can feel like a constant uphill battle. My days are a whirlwind of meetings, school pick-ups, and the ever-present to-do list. So, when it comes to dinner, I need something quick, easy, and most importantly, something my family will actually enjoy. That's where this Paleo Chicken Broccoli "Rice" Casserole comes in. This recipe has become a staple in our home, a true weeknight lifesaver. It's not just quick and easy, it’s also incredibly versatile – perfect for meal prepping and even great for leftovers!

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Forget complicated techniques and lengthy ingredient lists. This casserole relies on fresh, wholesome ingredients that work together to create a flavor explosion. The tender chicken, perfectly roasted broccoli, and creamy cauliflower "rice" sauce are a match made in heaven. And the best part? It's completely customizable. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own signature flavor profile. I often add a dash of red pepper flakes for a little kick, or swap the rosemary for thyme depending on what’s fresh in my garden.

Why this recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights:

  • Meal prepping magic: Double the recipe and enjoy delicious lunches and dinners throughout the week. Simply store leftovers in airtight containers and reheat whenever you need a quick and satisfying meal.
  • Healthy and delicious: Packed with protein and vegetables, this casserole is a nutritious and satisfying meal that will keep you feeling full and energized. No more reaching for unhealthy takeout options!
  • Family-friendly: My picky eaters love this casserole! The creamy sauce and tender chicken make it appealing to even the most discerning palates.
  • Dietary flexibility: This recipe is naturally Paleo, Whole30 compliant, and keto-friendly. You can easily adapt it to fit your specific dietary needs.

I often find myself making a double batch of this recipe on Sundays. It’s the perfect way to set myself up for a successful and stress-free week. Knowing I have a healthy and delicious meal ready to go makes a huge difference in my overall well-being. I can focus on other things instead of stressing about dinner preparation each night.

Beyond its practicality, this casserole is simply delicious. The combination of savory chicken, crisp broccoli, and the richness of the sauce creates a flavor profile that's both comforting and satisfying. It's the kind of meal that will leave you feeling nourished and happy, without spending hours in the kitchen. So, give this recipe a try – I promise you won't be disappointed. It's not just a recipe; it's a solution to the age-old question of what's for dinner. This is a meal that will become a cherished part of your weekly routine. And who knows, maybe even a family favorite for years to come.

Tips for Success:

  • Don't overcook the chicken or broccoli. Slightly undercooked vegetables will continue to cook in the oven with the sauce.
  • Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor.
  • If you don't have cauliflower rice, you can use regular rice (this will change the dietary guidelines of the recipe).
  • For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.