Introduction
If you’re looking for a comforting and satisfying dish that aligns with your paleo lifestyle, this paleo-friendly chicken enchilada casserole recipe is the answer. Packed with flavors and wholesome ingredients, it’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something hearty yet healthy. This casserole is not only easy to prepare but also versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite veggies and spices.
Enchiladas have always been a crowd-pleaser, but traditional recipes often contain ingredients that don’t fit into the paleo diet. This recipe uses a delicious homemade enchilada sauce and substitutes for tortillas, making it both paleo-friendly and gluten-free. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just cooking for yourself, this casserole is sure to impress!
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (red and green)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cups cauliflower rice
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup homemade enchilada sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and bell peppers to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the cauliflower rice and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until slightly tender.
- Add the shredded chicken, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, enchilada sauce, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Mix until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish.
- Spread evenly and cover with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the top is bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Why Choose Paleo-Friendly Ingredients?
Paleo diets focus on whole, unprocessed foods that were available to our ancestors. By using fresh ingredients like chicken, vegetables, and homemade sauces, this casserole avoids refined sugars, grains, and dairy. It’s a great way to enjoy a classic dish while staying true to your health goals.
Variations to Try
Feel free to customize this paleo-friendly chicken enchilada casserole to suit your taste. You can swap out the chicken for ground turkey or beef if you prefer. Adding black olives, jalapeños, or even sweet potatoes can give your dish an extra twist. The enchilada sauce can also be adjusted to your desired spice level by adding more chili powder or fresh peppers.
Meal Prep and Storage
This casserole is perfect for meal prepping. You can make it ahead of time, store it in the refrigerator, and simply reheat it when you’re ready to eat. It lasts up to 4 days in the fridge. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions in airtight containers. To reheat, just pop it in the oven until heated through or use the microwave for a quick meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this paleo-friendly chicken enchilada casserole with a side of fresh guacamole or a simple salad to round out the meal. A dollop of coconut yogurt can also add a creamy touch that complements the dish beautifully.
FAQ
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute the chicken with black beans or lentils for a delicious vegetarian version. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What can I use instead of cauliflower rice?
If you’re not a fan of cauliflower rice, you can use regular rice or quinoa, but note that this would no longer be paleo-friendly.
Can I use store-bought enchilada sauce?
While homemade enchilada sauce is recommended to keep it paleo-friendly, you can use a store-bought version as long as it doesn’t contain any added sugars or preservatives.
How do I make my casserole spicy?
To add some heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce into the mixture. Adjust the amount of chili powder to suit your taste as well.
Final Thoughts
This paleo-friendly chicken enchilada casserole is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings the comforting flavors of traditional enchiladas into a healthier form. With its combination of savory chicken, vibrant vegetables, and zesty sauce, this casserole will surely become a family favorite. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for meal prep. Enjoy it at your next family dinner, and watch everyone go back for seconds!
