Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole
Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole
Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a rich, cheesy sauce. This comforting meal is perfect for those following a low-carb diet, offering flavor and satisfaction without the extra carbs. It’s easy to make and guaranteed to please your family or guests!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole
This creamy casserole is a complete meal that is both hearty and nutritious. It features plenty of protein from the chicken and a good dose of veggies from the broccoli and cauliflower rice. The addition of cream cheese and cheddar cheese gives it that luscious, comforting texture that casserole lovers crave. Plus, this dish is low in carbs, making it a smart choice for anyone looking to maintain or lose weight while enjoying delicious meals. It’s a delightful way to eat healthy without sacrificing taste!
How to Make Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cauliflower rice
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup broccoli, chopped
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, cauliflower rice, cream cheese, half of the cheddar cheese, broccoli, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole
Serve this creamy casserole hot from the oven. It pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For an added touch, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top to enhance both the flavor and the presentation. This dish is not only delicious on its own but also makes excellent leftovers for lunch the next day.
How to Store Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole
To store your leftover casserole, let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it for longer, consider freezing it. Place the cooled casserole in a freezer-safe dish, and it should last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it in the oven until hot.
Tips to Make Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole Perfect
- Use Leftover Chicken: This recipe is perfect for using up leftover rotisserie chicken. It saves time and adds flavor.
- Mix and Match Veggies: Feel free to substitute broccoli with other low-carb vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers.
- Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or your favorite herbs for an extra kick.
- Cream Cheese Consistency: Allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature for easier mixing.
Flavor Variations
This casserole is versatile! Try adding different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor profile. You can also mix in some diced green chilies for a southwestern touch or add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fresh taste.
Pro Tips for Success
- Consistent Cooking: Make sure all vegetables are chopped uniformly to ensure even cooking in the casserole.
- Quality Chicken Broth: Using homemade or good-quality chicken broth enhances the flavor of the dish.
- Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the casserole as it bakes to avoid overcooking the cheese topping.
FAQs About Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you are ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld together even more.
What can I substitute for cauliflower rice?
If you prefer, you can use riced broccoli or even zucchini noodles as a low-carb alternative. Both options will provide a different texture but will still work well in the recipe.
Can I use raw chicken in this recipe?
While this recipe works best with cooked chicken, you can use raw chicken if you adjust the cooking time. Make sure the chicken is fully cooked before serving. You might need to bake it longer than the suggested time.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that you can easily prepare at home. Its creamy richness and low-carb ingredients make it a perfect dish for busy weeknights or special family gatherings. Try this recipe today, and enjoy a satisfying and healthy dinner everyone will love!
Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded Use leftover chicken for quicker preparation.
- 1 cup cauliflower rice This is a low-carb alternative to regular rice.
- 1 cup cream cheese Allow to soften at room temperature for easier mixing.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Divided - half mixed into casserole, half for topping.
- 1 cup broccoli, chopped Feel free to substitute with other low-carb vegetables.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth Use homemade or quality store-bought for better flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, cauliflower rice, cream cheese, half of the cheddar cheese, broccoli, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
Baking
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
