Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is a delightful and hearty dish that is perfect for those following a low-carb diet. Packed with flavor and creamy textures, it's sure to please the entire family.
This casserole brings together tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy sauce that binds it all together. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep, this dish is low in carbs but high in flavor!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, creamy texture that satisfies your cravings
- Packed with protein and veggies for a nutritious meal
- Easy to prepare and perfect for leftovers
The Benefits of Low Carb Eating
Low carb diets have gained popularity for good reason. By reducing carbohydrate intake, many people experience weight loss and improved energy levels. This Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole fits perfectly into this lifestyle, offering a satisfying meal without the excess carbs. The combination of chicken and vegetables provides essential nutrients while keeping your carb count in check.
In addition to weight management, low carb meals can help stabilize blood sugar levels. This is particularly beneficial for those with diabetes or insulin resistance. The protein-rich ingredients in this casserole not only keep you full longer but also provide sustained energy throughout the day.
A Family-Friendly Meal
Finding meals that everyone in the family will enjoy can be a challenge, especially when accommodating different dietary needs. This creamy chicken casserole is a crowd-pleaser, combining familiar flavors and textures that appeal to both kids and adults. The cheesy topping and tender chicken create a comforting dish that feels indulgent yet healthy.
Moreover, this recipe is highly customizable. Feel free to swap in your family's favorite vegetables or add extra spices for a little kick. This flexibility makes it easy to adapt the casserole to suit various palates, ensuring no one leaves the table unsatisfied.
Perfect for Meal Prep
One of the best aspects of this Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is its suitability for meal prep. You can make a large batch at the beginning of the week and portion it out for quick lunches or dinners. This not only saves time but also helps in maintaining a healthy eating routine, as you’ll have nutritious meals readily available.
When stored in an airtight container, the casserole can last in the fridge for up to four days, making it an excellent choice for busy families. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave and enjoy a wholesome meal without the hassle of cooking from scratch each day.
Ingredients
For the Casserole
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure all your ingredients are prepared before starting the cooking process.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the Vegetables
In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli, cauliflower, and mushrooms. Set aside.
Mix the Chicken and Sauce
In another bowl, mix the shredded chicken with heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Combine All Ingredients
Add the vegetable mixture to the chicken mixture and stir until well combined. Pour into a greased casserole dish.
Add Cheese and Bake
Top with shredded cheddar cheese and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for Success
To achieve the best results, ensure your chicken is cooked and shredded before mixing it into the casserole. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If you're short on time, using rotisserie chicken can be a fantastic shortcut, providing both flavor and convenience.
Also, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. While cheddar is a classic choice, varieties like mozzarella or pepper jack can add unique flavors and textures to your dish. Just remember to adjust the quantity based on how cheesy you want your casserole to be.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy casserole pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed veggies, providing a balanced plate that complements the richness of the dish. A fresh green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette can help cut through the creaminess and enhance the overall experience.
For those looking to add a bit of crunch, consider topping the casserole with crushed pork rinds or almond flour before baking. This adds a delightful texture and enhances the low-carb profile, making it even more satisfying.
Storing and Reheating
To store leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to four days or frozen for longer storage. If freezing, consider portioning it out to make reheating easier later on.
When reheating, you can simply microwave individual portions or bake the entire casserole in the oven. If it seems dry after reheating, adding a splash of cream or broth can help restore its creamy texture, ensuring it remains as delicious as the first time you enjoyed it.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables work well; just make sure to thaw and drain them before using.
→ How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free cheese.
→ Can I make this in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake.
→ What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to customize your casserole!
Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole
This Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is a delightful and hearty dish that is perfect for those following a low-carb diet. Packed with flavor and creamy textures, it's sure to please the entire family.
Created by: Aubrey Whitman
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
For the Casserole
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli, cauliflower, and mushrooms. Set aside.
In another bowl, mix the shredded chicken with heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Add the vegetable mixture to the chicken mixture and stir until well combined. Pour into a greased casserole dish.
Top with shredded cheddar cheese and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 10g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 35g