Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, creamy sauce and plenty of vegetables, all while keeping it low in carbs.
Discover the perfect balance of flavor and health with this Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole. Ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this dish is sure to please the whole family.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich, creamy texture that satisfies your comfort food cravings
- Packed with protein and low in carbs, perfect for a healthy lifestyle
- Easy to prepare and great for leftovers or meal prepping
A Comforting Meal for Every Occasion
The Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is not just a meal; it's an experience that brings warmth and comfort to your dining table. Whether you're hosting friends and family or simply enjoying a quiet night in, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Its creamy texture and hearty ingredients make it satisfying enough to please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, the vibrant colors of the broccoli and cauliflower add a delightful visual appeal that enhances the overall dining experience.
This casserole is versatile, making it suitable for a variety of dietary preferences. With its low-carb profile, it's an excellent choice for those following ketogenic or low-carb diets. You can easily customize the recipe by adding or swapping out vegetables to suit your taste or what you have on hand. The combination of tender chicken and creamy sauce means that regardless of how you tweak it, you’ll always end up with a delicious meal.
Nourishing Ingredients for a Healthy Lifestyle
One of the standout features of this casserole is its nourishing ingredients. The combination of chicken, cheese, and healthy vegetables provides a balanced meal packed with protein and essential nutrients. Chicken is a fantastic source of lean protein, which helps in muscle repair and growth, while the broccoli and cauliflower contribute vitamins and minerals crucial for overall health. This dish allows you to enjoy a comforting meal without compromising your health goals.
Moreover, using heavy cream and cream cheese not only adds to the richness but also keeps the dish low in carbohydrates. This makes it an ideal option for those looking to maintain energy levels without the sugar spikes associated with traditional casseroles. The wholesome ingredients come together to create a dish that is both indulgent and health-conscious, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights.
Perfect for Leftovers and Meal Prep
One of the best aspects of the Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is its ability to be made ahead of time and enjoyed later. The flavors meld beautifully as the casserole sits, making it even tastier as leftovers. This makes it an excellent choice for meal prepping, allowing you to whip up a large batch to enjoy throughout the week. Simply store individual portions in airtight containers for a quick and satisfying meal on the go.
Not only does this casserole reheat well, but it also provides a convenient option for busy days. You can easily pop it in the microwave or oven for a quick lunch or dinner that feels like a treat. This dish's ability to be enjoyed over several days without losing its flavor or texture is a testament to its quality and ease of preparation.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Main 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 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go for a smooth cooking experience.
Instructions
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add broccoli and cauliflower, sautéing until slightly tender, about 5 minutes.
Prepare the Creamy Mixture
In a bowl, mix together the heavy cream, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Combine Ingredients
In the skillet with the vegetables, add the shredded chicken and creamy mixture. Stir until everything is well combined.
Add Cheese and Bake
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, top with shredded cheddar cheese, and bake for 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious low carb meal!
Tips for Success
When preparing the Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole, ensure that your chicken is cooked and shredded beforehand for a seamless cooking experience. You can use leftover rotisserie chicken or meal-prepped chicken for added convenience. Additionally, don’t skimp on seasoning! Adjust the garlic and onion powder to your taste preferences for a more personalized flavor.
If you're looking to add more vegetables, consider incorporating spinach or bell peppers. Just be sure to sauté them slightly before adding to the casserole to maintain their texture. This flexibility allows you to make the dish your own while keeping it nutritious.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole experience, serve it alongside a fresh green salad. This not only adds a refreshing crunch but also enhances the overall meal with added nutrients. A simple vinaigrette or lemon dressing would pair beautifully with the rich flavors of the casserole.
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños to the casserole before baking. This will give it a delightful kick while still maintaining the creamy essence of the dish. Experiment with toppings like sliced avocado or fresh herbs for a delicious finishing touch.
Storage and Reheating
Proper storage is key to maintaining the quality of your Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing individual portions. Just make sure to label them with the date for easy tracking.
When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quick meal. If the casserole seems dry after reheating, add a splash of heavy cream or broth to bring back its original creamy texture.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen broccoli and cauliflower can be used. Just ensure they're thawed and drained before adding.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole in advance and bake it just before serving.
→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use coconut cream or a low-carb cream alternative if you prefer.
Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole
This Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, creamy sauce and plenty of vegetables, all while keeping it low in carbs.
Created by: Natalie Warren
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Main 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 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add broccoli and cauliflower, sautéing until slightly tender, about 5 minutes.
In a bowl, mix together the heavy cream, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
In the skillet with the vegetables, add the shredded chicken and creamy mixture. Stir until everything is well combined.
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, top with shredded cheddar cheese, and bake for 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 8g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 25g