Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is a delicious and healthy option for dinner that won't derail your diet.
This Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole combines tender chicken with a rich, creamy sauce and a blend of vegetables, making it a satisfying meal that fits into a low carb lifestyle.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy, cheesy goodness that satisfies cravings without the carbs
- Packed with protein to keep you full and energized
- Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep
A Healthy Dinner Option
Finding healthy dinner options that are both satisfying and flavorful can sometimes feel like a daunting task. This Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole not only meets those criteria but also aligns perfectly with low-carb dietary preferences. By using wholesome ingredients and avoiding heavy carbohydrates, this dish allows you to enjoy a hearty meal without the guilt, making it ideal for families and health-conscious individuals alike.
With its blend of chicken, broccoli, and cauliflower, this casserole is not just low in carbs but also rich in essential nutrients. Broccoli and cauliflower provide fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, contributing to overall health while keeping you full. The creamy sauce adds a delightful richness that makes every bite enjoyable, proving that healthy doesn't have to mean bland.
Perfect for Meal Prep
One of the standout features of this Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is its meal prep potential. Preparing meals in advance can save time during busy weekdays, and this casserole is perfect for that purpose. You can easily make a large batch, portion it out, and store it in the fridge or freezer for later. This way, you'll always have a nutritious meal ready to go, reducing the temptation to reach for unhealthy options.
When stored properly, this casserole can last in the refrigerator for up to four days, and it freezes well too. Just reheat individual servings in the microwave or oven, and you'll have a tasty, wholesome meal in minutes. This flexibility makes it a favorite among those who want to maintain a healthy lifestyle without spending hours in the kitchen.
Customizable Ingredients
Another great aspect of this recipe is its versatility. While the base ingredients create a delicious and satisfying dish, you can easily customize it to suit your tastes or dietary needs. For example, feel free to swap the chicken for turkey or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option. You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to boost the nutritional value and flavor further.
Experimenting with different cheeses can also change the flavor profile. While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, mozzarella or gouda can add a unique twist. By personalizing this casserole, you can create a signature dish that your family will love, ensuring that it remains a staple in your meal rotation.
Ingredients
Casserole Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Combine these ingredients for a rich, creamy casserole that’s perfect for any occasion.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the Vegetables
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the broccoli and cauliflower for about 5 minutes until slightly tender.
Mix the Sauce
In a large bowl, combine the heavy cream, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
Combine Ingredients
Add the shredded chicken and sautéed vegetables to the cream mixture and stir until well combined.
Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
Serve
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
This casserole is not only low in carbs but also rich in flavor, making it a great option for family dinners.
Nutritional Benefits
This Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is not just delicious; it also packs a nutritional punch. With a generous amount of protein from the chicken and cheese, this dish helps in muscle repair and growth, making it an excellent choice post-workout. Each serving is balanced with healthy fats from the cream and cheese, which help keep you satiated and energized throughout the day.
Additionally, the inclusion of broccoli and cauliflower provides essential vitamins and minerals. These vegetables are known for their high fiber content, which supports digestive health. Incorporating them into your meals is an easy way to boost your overall nutrient intake while enjoying a comforting dish.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving this casserole, the options are as versatile as the dish itself. Pair it with a fresh green salad for a light and refreshing contrast, or serve it with a side of roasted vegetables for a heartier meal. If you're looking to keep it low-carb, consider a side of zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice, which complements the casserole beautifully.
For an added touch, sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top before serving. Not only does this enhance the visual appeal, but it also adds a burst of freshness that elevates the overall flavor. This simple addition can make your meal feel more gourmet without any extra effort.
Storage Tips
To ensure the best quality and flavor of your Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole, proper storage is key. If you have leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This will preserve its creamy texture and prevent it from drying out in the refrigerator.
If you plan to freeze it, consider portioning it into individual servings. This makes it easier to reheat only what you need, minimizing waste. When reheating, whether in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of cream can help restore the casserole’s creamy consistency, making it taste as good as fresh.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli and cauliflower. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before adding them to the mixture.
→ How can I make this dish dairy-free?
You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
→ Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake.
→ What sides pair well with this casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables.
Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole
This Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is a delicious and healthy option for dinner that won't derail your diet.
Created by: Grace Walker
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Casserole Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the broccoli and cauliflower for about 5 minutes until slightly tender.
In a large bowl, combine the heavy cream, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
Add the shredded chicken and sautéed vegetables to the cream mixture and stir until well combined.
Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 10g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 25g