Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole
Looking for a comforting dish that won’t derail your low-carb diet? This Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is a game changer. Packed with tender chicken, creamy goodness, and a medley of vegetables, it’s not just a meal; it’s an experience. Perfect for those busy weeknights or laid-back weekends, this casserole will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
Why cook this at home
This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a nutritious hug in a bowl. You’ll love how simple and fast it is to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep for the week ahead. It’s also budget-friendly, allowing you to feed the whole family without breaking the bank. Plus, kids usually love the creamy texture and delicious flavors, making it a hit at the dinner table.
“I made this for my family last week, and they went back for seconds! It’s so creamy and satisfying. I can’t believe it’s low carb!” – Jessica R.
Preparing Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole
Creating this casserole is a breeze. You’ll gather your ingredients, mix them up, and allow the oven to do its magic. The whole process takes about 10 minutes of preparation before it goes into the oven, and then you can relax as the tantalizing aroma fills your home.
What you’ll need
To whip up this delicious casserole, you’ll need the following key ingredients:
- Cooked chicken breast (shredded or cubed)
- Cream cheese (softened)
- Cheddar cheese (shredded)
- Broccoli (fresh or frozen)
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt and pepper
- Optional: cauliflower rice or other vegetables
If you need to substitute, feel free to use different vegetables for a fresh twist or swap out the cheese to suit your taste.
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Fold in the shredded chicken and your vegetables of choice, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden on top.
- Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Best ways to enjoy it
This casserole is incredibly versatile. For a well-rounded meal, serve it alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables. You can also offer it with a side of cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles to keep things low-carb. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley can elevate the presentation!
Storage and reheating tips
Storing leftovers is simple. Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Helpful cooking tips
To amp up the flavor, consider adding a splash of your favorite hot sauce or using smoked cheese for a deeper flavor profile. Also, pre-chopping your vegetables can save you valuable prep time. Remember to use a food thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches a safe temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Creative twists
Experimenting with different ingredients can keep this casserole exciting! Try adding cooked bacon for a smoky flavor or swap in spinach for a leafy twist. You can even substitute the chicken for ground turkey or sautéed shrimp for variation.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
Preparation time is about 10 minutes, with an additional 25-30 minutes baking.
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a convenient option that can save you time and add extra flavor.
How do I make this casserole dairy-free?
Use dairy-free cream cheese and nutritional yeast instead of cheese for a great alternative.
This Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is not just easy to make, but it’s also an excellent choice for families looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing taste. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups Cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- 8 oz Cream cheese, softened Dairy-free cream cheese can be used for a dairy-free version.
- 1 cup Cheddar cheese, shredded Substitute with smoked cheese for added flavor.
- 2 cups Broccoli, fresh or frozen Other vegetables can be used for variation.
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Pepper
- Optional Cauliflower rice or other vegetables Adds variety and keeps it low-carb.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Fold in the shredded chicken and your vegetables of choice, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
Cooking
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden on top.
- Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.
