Get ready for a delightful dish that’s both creamy and low-carb! This easy and delicious Chicken Casserole is packed with flavors and nutrients. By blending shredded chicken with fresh veggies like cauliflower and broccoli, you create a meal that’s filling and wholesome. Plus, the creamy mixture of heavy cream and cream cheese takes this casserole to the next level. Perfect for meal prep or family dinners, let’s dive in!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This casserole can be prepared in just 15 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option.
- Low-Carb Delight: With its cauliflower and broccoli, this dish is not only delicious but also fits perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle.
- Creamy Goodness: The combination of heavy cream and cream cheese creates a rich and satisfying sauce that ties everything together.
- Customizable: You can easily swap in different veggies or proteins based on your preferences, making it versatile for any taste.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced (for garnish)
This creamy low-carb chicken casserole is a joy to make. You start with cooked chicken. Shredded chicken works best. You can use leftovers or rotisserie chicken. Next, add cauliflower and broccoli florets. They add color, crunch, and nutrients.
Now, the creamy part! You need heavy cream and cream cheese. Together, they make the dish rich and smooth. The garlic powder and onion powder bring a savory kick. Paprika adds warmth and a hint of spice. Don't forget salt and pepper to taste.
For the top, use shredded cheddar cheese. It melts beautifully and adds flavor. Lastly, slice some green onions for garnish. They give a fresh pop of color and taste. This blend of ingredients makes a dish that is both filling and satisfying.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step warms the oven so the casserole cooks evenly.
2. Prepare your casserole dish by greasing it lightly. This helps prevent sticking.
3. In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of shredded chicken, 1 cup of cauliflower florets, and 1 cup of broccoli florets. Mix them well. This blend gives a nice texture and flavor.
4. In another bowl, whisk together 1 cup of heavy cream, 1/2 cup of softened cream cheese, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of paprika. Add salt and pepper to taste. Blend until smooth. This creamy mix will bind the casserole together.
Assembling the Casserole
1. Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken and vegetable blend. Stir well to coat everything evenly. You want every piece to have that creamy goodness.
2. Transfer the mixture into your greased 9x13 inch casserole dish. Spread it out evenly.
3. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. The cheese will melt and create a delicious crust.
Baking the Casserole
1. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. You want the cheese to melt and bubble, and the vegetables should be tender.
2. Check for doneness by inserting a fork. If the veggies are soft and the cheese is golden, it's ready.
3. Let it cool slightly before serving. This helps the casserole set and makes it easier to serve. Add sliced green onions on top for a fresh touch.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
To get a creamy texture, mix the sauces well. Combine heavy cream and cream cheese until smooth. This helps blend the flavors and avoids lumps.
For even cooking of chicken and veggies, cut them into small pieces. This ensures they cook at the same rate. Stir the mix before baking. This helps distribute the heat evenly.
Flavor Enhancement
To boost flavor, try adding herbs like thyme or oregano. These herbs add a nice touch. You can also use a pinch of cayenne for some heat.
For sides, serve this casserole with a fresh salad. A simple green salad pairs well. You can also add cauliflower rice for extra low-carb options.
Pro Tips
- Use Leftover Chicken: This recipe is a great way to use up any leftover roasted or rotisserie chicken.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to mix in other low-carb vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, to switch up the flavor profile.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare this casserole a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can swap ingredients to fit your taste or diet. For a low-carb twist, consider these vegetable alternatives:
- Zucchini noodles
- Spinach or kale
- Bell peppers
These veggies add color and flavor while keeping carbs low. If you want to switch proteins, turkey works great too. It gives a nice flavor and is leaner. For a vegetarian option, try chickpeas or tofu. Both can add protein and texture.
Flavor Variations
To make your casserole pop, think about adding spices. A little heat can go a long way. Try:
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper for heat
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning for a herb mix
These spices add a different flavor profile and enhance the dish. Cheese lovers can also experiment. Instead of cheddar, use:
- Mozzarella for a stretchier texture
- Gruyère for a nutty taste
Each cheese offers unique flavors that can change your dish entirely. Mixing and matching spices and cheeses can lead to a new favorite casserole!
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
To store your leftovers, let the casserole cool first. Once it cools, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. You can also use an airtight container for more protection. This helps keep it fresh. Store the casserole in the fridge. It should last for about three to four days.
Recommended storage containers include:
- Glass containers with lids
- Plastic food storage containers
- Aluminum foil for a quick cover
Freezing Instructions
If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. First, let the casserole cool completely. Then, cut it into individual portions. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap. You can also use freezer bags. Squeeze out as much air as you can before sealing. This keeps it from getting freezer burn.
To reheat frozen portions:
1. Take the portion out of the freezer.
2. Place it in the fridge to thaw overnight.
3. Once thawed, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
4. Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil.
5. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
Now, you can enjoy your creamy low-carb chicken casserole anytime!
FAQs
What is the nutritional information for the casserole?
This creamy low-carb chicken casserole is packed with protein and healthy fats. Each serving has about 320 calories. It includes 20 grams of protein, 25 grams of fat, and only 6 grams of carbs. The high protein and low carb count make it great for low-carb diets.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this casserole ahead of time. Prepare it fully, then cover and refrigerate it for up to two days. This makes it easy to serve on busy nights. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat.
How do I reheat leftover chicken casserole properly?
To reheat leftover chicken casserole, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C). Heat for 15-20 minutes. Cover with foil to keep it moist. You can also use a microwave. Just heat it in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot.
In this article, we covered a delicious chicken casserole featuring cooked chicken and veggies. We discussed each step clearly, from prep to baking. You learned about tips for the perfect creamy texture and seasoning ideas to enhance flavors. Variations let you swap ingredients and alter flavors easily. Finally, proper storage advice ensures your casserole stays fresh. Enjoy making this dish, and feel free to get creative with your own twists!
