Welcome to Comfort Food Heaven!
Hey there, food lovers! If you’re anything like me, you know that cozy, comforting meals can truly make a long day feel a little brighter. That’s why I’m so excited to share with you my Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole recipe. It’s cheesy, creamy, and packed with nutrition, not to mention super simple to make! Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies, and leftovers are perfect for quick meals during the week. Let’s dive into this goodness together!
Nutritional Benefits
This casserole isn’t just delicious; it’s also a healthier option that fits perfectly into low-carb diets! With protein-packed chicken and plenty of broccoli, you’re getting a dose of essential nutrients. Chicken is great for muscle recovery, and broccoli is loaded with vitamins K and C, not to mention fiber, which helps keep our digestion in check. And don’t worry if you’re cutting carbs; using cream cheese and sour cream gives you that creamy texture without the heavy carbs found in traditional pasta or rice dishes. What’s not to love?
Adaptable Variations
Now, let’s talk about how you can make this dish truly your own. Here are a few ideas:
- Swap Out the Veggies: Not a broccoli fan? Feel free to use cauliflower, spinach, or even bell peppers. Just steam until tender and toss them into the mix!
- Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese and Greek yogurt for a lactose-free version. It tastes amazing, trust me!
- No Chicken? Try it with shredded rotisserie turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian spin.
- Cheese Lovers: Mix in a variety of cheeses instead of just cheddar. Mozzarella and Gruyère can create a wonderful cheesy pull!
Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)
Serves 4–6 people
Standard portions → 4 servings
Slightly smaller portions → up to 6 servings
Cooking Instructions
- First things first, let’s preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and chicken broth. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper. Now, mix it all together until it’s nice and smooth—this is where the magic begins!
- Add your cooked chicken and steamed broccoli to this creamy mixture and stir gently. You want everything nicely coated.
- Now, it’s time to fold in half of your shredded cheddar cheese and bacon if you’re using it. Yummy!
- Transfer the chicken and broccoli creation into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish, spreading it evenly to make sure every bite has that delicious flavor.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. Can you say gooey goodness?
- Pop that dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You know it’s done when the cheese is nice and bubbly and the edges have that beautiful golden color.
- Once it’s out of the oven, let it sit for just a few minutes to cool off. Then, garnish with some freshly chopped parsley for that pop of color and flavor!
- Now, it’s time to dig in and enjoy your cozy low-carb chicken casserole!
Practical Tips for Your Casserole
- Storage: Leftovers? Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick meal!
- Serving Suggestions: This casserole is fantastic on its own, but if you’re feeling a little extra, serve it with a crisp green salad for a well-rounded meal.
- Substitutions: If you don’t have cream cheese, a good Greek yogurt can be used, although it may change the texture slightly.
Equipment Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious casserole:
- Large mixing bowl
- 9×13-inch casserole dish (greased for easy serving)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- Steamer basket (for your broccoli)
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes! You can assemble it a day ahead and keep it in the fridge. Just bake it right before you’re ready to serve.
- Is it safe to freeze? Absolutely! Freeze your casserole for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly!
- What can I serve it with? It pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- How do I know when it’s fully cooked? Look for bubbling, gooey cheese, and slightly toasted edges. If the middle is hot and the cheese is melted, you’re golden!
- Can I use a different protein? Of course! You can easily substitute with turkey, shredded pork, or even keep it vegetarian by adding chickpeas.
Join the Conversation!
Did you give this Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole a try? I’d love to hear how it turned out! Don’t forget to snap a pic and share it on Pinterest so others can join in the deliciousness too! Happy cooking!
