Don Lee Farms Green Chili Shredded Chicken & Cauliflower Rice Bowl: Worth the Hype?

Looking for a quick, low-carb meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor? I’ve been testing the Don Lee Farms Green Chili Shredded Chicken & Cauliflower Rice Bowl for the past few weeks, and I’m ready to spill all the details on this popular Costco find. Is it really as good as everyone says? Let’s dig in!

What Exactly Is This Bowl All About?

Don Lee Farms has created what they call the “go-to choice for those in search of a tasty, easy meal option for any time of day.” The Green Chili Shredded Chicken & Cauliflower Rice Bowl is designed to transcend typical microwave meals by combining rich flavors with unparalleled convenience.

Each bowl comes with:

• Antibiotic-free dark chicken meat (slow-cooked for tenderness)
• Riced cauliflower (as a low-carb alternative to traditional grains)
• Green chili peppers (providing a gentle heat)
• Sweet corn
• Cheddar cheese (adding creaminess and extra protein)
• Various spices and seasonings

The best part? It packs a whopping 23g of protein per serving and is completely gluten-free!

Nutritional Breakdown: Is It Actually Healthy?

One of the main selling points of this bowl is its nutritional profile With its cauliflower rice base, it’s significantly lower in carbs than traditional rice bowls, making it appealing for those following ketogenic, low-carb, or diabetic-friendly diets

The calorie count typically ranges between 300-400 calories per bowl, which is quite reasonable for a complete meal. The 23g of protein helps with satiety and muscle maintenance, which I definitely appreciate as someone who tries to get enough protein throughout the day.

However, like most convenience foods, you should be mindful of the sodium content. While I don’t find it overwhelmingly salty, those watching their sodium intake might want to take note.

Taste Test: The Moment of Truth

Let’s be honest – most “healthy” frozen meals taste like cardboard with a side of disappointment. So how does the Don Lee Farms bowl stack up?

The official description promises “rich flavors” and a “balanced taste sensation,” but my experience was a bit more nuanced. The chicken is indeed tender and the green chilis provide a pleasant, mild heat that isn’t overwhelming. The corn adds a nice touch of sweetness that balances the spice.

However, I found the base flavor to be somewhat mild. The cauliflower rice has a slightly nutty flavor that complements the chicken well, but on its own, the dish could use a bit more seasoning for my taste. I usually add a squeeze of lime and some fresh cilantro to brighten it up.

The cheddar cheese definitely helps, adding a creamy texture and a bit more flavor depth. Overall, I’d describe it as “good-but-not-great” right out of the microwave, but with potential to be excellent with a few additions.

Convenience Factor: How Easy Is It?

We’re all busy, and sometimes you just need something quick. These bowls excel in the convenience department with two heating options:

Microwave (Fast Option):

1. Make a 1-inch slit in the film
2. Heat on high for 4-5 minutes
3. Remove film
4. Let stand 1 minute before enjoying

Conventional Oven (For Better Texture):

1. Preheat oven to 375°F
2. Remove film
3. Place bowl on a cookie sheet
4. Bake for 35-40 minutes
5. Let stand 1 minute before enjoying

I’ve tried both methods, and while the microwave is obviously quicker, the oven gives a slightly better texture to the cauliflower rice. But for a workday lunch? The microwave version is perfectly acceptable.

Value for Money: Is It Worth It?

At Costco, you can find a 4-pack of these bowls (9.5 oz each) for around $14.63, making each bowl approximately $3.66. Compared to making a similar meal from scratch, it’s more expensive. But compared to takeout or restaurant meals? It’s a bargain.

For the convenience, protein content, and overall quality, I think it represents good value. The bowls are substantial enough to satisfy hunger, and the ingredients are better quality than many frozen meals (antibiotic-free chicken is a nice touch).

Creative Ways to Upgrade Your Bowl

While these bowls are tasty on their own, I’ve found a few ways to take them to the next level:

Green Chili Chicken Power Bowl

Add:

• ¼ avocado, sliced
• 2 tbsp salsa verde or pico de gallo
• 1 tbsp sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Fresh cilantro
• A squeeze of lime

This transforms the basic bowl into something that feels restaurant-quality in just an extra minute of prep time.

Green Chili Chicken Salad Bowl

Try serving the heated bowl over:

• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• ¼ cup black beans
• Add a simple lime-cilantro vinaigrette

This creates a more substantial meal with extra fiber and nutrients.

Green Chili Chicken Burrito

Use the heated bowl as filling for:

• A large flour tortilla (or gluten-free wrap)
• Add extra cheese and toppings
• Roll up and optionally pan-sear for a crispy finish

This is my favorite way to repurpose the bowl when I need something more substantial.

What Are People Saying? Customer Reviews

Based on the official Don Lee Farms website, these bowls have a impressive 4.8/5 star rating from 34 reviews. Most customers praise the flavor and convenience, with many specifically mentioning how it fits into their low-carb lifestyle.

One reviewer named Jess commented: “I was very impressed with the flavor packed in this bowl. It was the perfect low carb meal for lunch at work! Reasonably priced ta boot!”

Another reviewer, Brian P, simply stated: “These are great for keeping it low-carb.”

Common Questions About The Bowls

Are there any allergens?

The bowl contains milk (from the cheddar cheese). Always check the packaging for the most up-to-date allergen information.

Can I freeze these bowls?

Freezing isn’t generally recommended as it can negatively impact the texture of the cauliflower rice.

How long do they last in the refrigerator?

Unopened, they should last until the “use by” date on the packaging.

Where can I buy them?

They’re available at select Costco locations. The 4-pack is the most common packaging.

My Final Verdict

After working my way through several of these bowls over the past month, I’ve come to see them as a solid addition to my meal rotation – especially for busy workdays.

Pros:

• Truly convenient and quick to prepare
• Good protein content (23g)
• Gluten-free and low-carb
• Reasonably tasty, especially with a few additions
• Antibiotic-free chicken
• More affordable than takeout

Cons:

• Base flavor is a bit mild
• Texture can be mushy if overcooked
• More expensive than cooking from scratch
• Limited availability (mostly at Costco)

For someone looking for a convenient, protein-rich meal that’s lower in carbs than most frozen options, the Don Lee Farms Green Chili Shredded Chicken & Cauliflower Rice Bowl is definitely worth trying. I keep a few in my freezer for those days when cooking just isn’t happening.

Have you tried these bowls? I’d love to hear what you think and if you have any creative ways to dress them up!