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In the realm of comfort food, few dishes resonate as deeply as a well-crafted casserole. The Cheesy Cauliflower and Chicken Bake stands out as a delightful fusion of familiar flavors and wholesome ingredients, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or casual gatherings. This dish not only satisfies your cravings for warmth and comfort but also offers a nutritious twist that sets it apart from traditional casseroles. With its creamy textures and cheesy goodness, it invites you to indulge without the guilt typically associated with richer dishes.

Cheesy Cauliflower and Chicken Bake

Discover the perfect comfort food with this Cheesy Cauliflower and Chicken Bake recipe! This delightful casserole combines the goodness of cauliflower and tender chicken in a creamy cheese sauce, creating a nutritious yet indulgent meal. Packed with lean protein and vitamins, it caters to various dietary preferences, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings. Enjoy this delicious dish that’s easy to prepare and bound to be a crowd-pleaser!
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Ingredients
  

1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works well)

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature

1 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika can add extra depth)

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional: Crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick

Instructions
 

Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures your bake will cook evenly.

    Prepare Cauliflower: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add the cauliflower florets and cook for approximately 5-7 minutes, until they are tender but retain some firmness. Drain the florets well in a colander and set aside.

      Mix Chicken and Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, softened cream cheese, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Use a spatula or whisk to mix the ingredients until they form a smooth and creamy mixture.

        Incorporate Cauliflower: Gently fold the drained cauliflower florets into the chicken and cheese mixture. Do this carefully to maintain the integrity of the cauliflower and avoid mashing it.

          Layer in Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Transfer the cauliflower-chicken mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly, and smooth the top with a spatula for a nice finish.

            Add Toppings: Evenly distribute the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the mixture, followed by a generous sprinkling of grated Parmesan cheese. This will create a deliciously cheesy crust.

              Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the top is beautifully golden brown.

                Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes. Before serving, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a touch of freshness and, if desired, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for an enticing spicy kick.

                  Enjoy!: Serve this cheesy bake warm as a satisfying main dish or as a flavorful side to accompany your meal.

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | 6 servings