Amazing Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole
Cozy Chicken Bake Delight
In the heart of Orlando, a Florida girl with a passion for bold Mexican flavors crafts memories in her kitchen. The joy of pressing tortillas alongside her mama and soaking up spice wisdom from her abuela fill her heart with warmth. Each dish is a reminder that food weaves stories, laughter, and love into every bite. Though she still calls Orlando home, the vibrant markets of Oaxaca and the comforting embrace of her abuela’s kitchen resonate within her. With a blend of comfort and tradition, she shares scrumptious recipes, from fluffy tamales to quick bites that evoke nostalgia and flavor.
Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is a delightful meal that embodies heartiness without the carbs. This comforting dish is loaded with tender chicken, creamy cheeses, and vibrant vegetables, creating a perfect option for family dinners or potluck gatherings. Each bite is rich and flavorful, making it an instant favorite in your kitchen. So gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into this easy, delicious recipe that’s perfect for any occasion.
Quick Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty: Easy
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
- Best Season: All year
Reasons to Love This Dish
Flavor Explosion: The blend of tender chicken, creamy cheese, and vibrant veggies creates a symphony of flavors that tantalizes the taste buds. Once you take a bite, you’ll be hooked!
Simple Preparation: With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish is a breeze to prepare. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.
Low Carb Goodness: This casserole fits perfectly into low-carb eating plans while still being satisfying and delicious. Additionally, the richness from the cheese and cream ensures that you won’t miss the carbs.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s dinner with the family or a gathering with friends, everyone will appreciate this comforting dish. It’s easy to make ahead, ensuring stress-free hosting.
Essential Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup cauliflower, riced
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Ingredient Insights
Chicken: Use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quick prep. Freshly cooked chicken also works beautifully.
Broccoli & Cauliflower: Fresh vegetables are always best, but frozen can be a great time-saver. Just thaw and drain excess liquid before adding.
Cheeses: Feel free to swap cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack if you prefer a different flavor profile.
Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to maintain control over salt levels, making the dish healthier.
Easy-to-Follow Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and chicken broth until the mixture is smooth.
- Stir in the shredded chicken, broccoli florets, riced cauliflower, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well incorporated.
- Transfer the creamy mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously on top for that melty goodness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is beautifully melted.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.
Tips for Optimal Flavor
Cook Time: Keep an eye on the casserole as oven temperatures can vary. You want that cheese bubbly and slightly golden!
Flavor Boost: Adding a dash of hot sauce or smoked paprika can elevate the flavor profile if you enjoy a little kick.
Vegetarian Twist: Substitute chicken with hearty beans or lentils for a meatless option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Fresh Herbs: Consider mixing in fresh herbs like thyme or basil for an extra layer of freshness.
Delicious Variations
Keto-Friendly: Stick with the original recipe but ensure all ingredients are low-carb, perfect for keto dieters.
Spicy Option: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick that enhances the richness of the dish.
Vegan Version: Swap chicken for chickpeas, use plant-based cream cheese and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Regional Flair: Incorporate spices like cumin and coriander to infuse some traditional Mexican flavors.
Perfect Pairings
Pair this delightful casserole with a fresh side salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. A crisp white wine or a sparkling water with lime can elevate your dining experience. For something sweet, consider serving it alongside a light fruit dessert like mixed berries drizzled with honey.
Freezer and Make-Ahead Strategies
You can prep this casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. To freeze, cover well with plastic wrap and foil; it’ll keep for about 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, and bake as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes if baking from frozen.
Serving Style
Serve the casserole hot from the oven in the dish for a cozy family-style presentation. You might even sprinkle extra cheese on each serving for those that love a cheesy bite. Adding a side of crusty bread can make it feel like a complete comfort meal!
Kitchen Wisdom for Success
- Ultimate Creaminess: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy blending without lumps.
- Don’t Rush Baking: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps it set, making it easier to slice and serve.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to mix in other vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition and texture.
- Cheesy Crust: For an even tastier result, layer in a bit of cheese between the chicken layers for a cheesy surprise in every bite.
Storage and Reheating Suggestions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For reheating, the microwave is quick, but the stovetop can keep the texture creamy. Reheat on low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if necessary to revive its creamy consistency.
Your Queries Answered
- Can I use uncooked chicken? Yes, just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the chicken cooks through completely.
- What if I don’t like cauliflower? Feel free to substitute it with extra broccoli or other favorite vegetables.
- Can I add more cheese? Absolutely! More cheese will enhance the creaminess and flavor, just keep an eye on the overall consistency.
- How do leftovers taste? Leftovers heat up beautifully and can be even more flavorful as the ingredients meld together.
- Can this be served cold? While it’s best warm, you can enjoy it cold, especially as part of a summer salad.
- Is this dish gluten-free? Yes, this casserole is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Nutrition Info
- Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 25g
- Carbs: 6g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary based on preparation methods and ingredient brands used.
Someone’s Love Reflected
This dish is more than just a recipe; it’s a gathering of flavors that brings families together. Food is a universal language, a bridge connecting cultures, memories, and hearts. Whenever you whip up this creamy low carb chicken casserole, you’re not just making a meal – you’re sharing warmth, tradition, and love with those around you.
Wrapping Up on a Delicious Note
Cooking this Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is a wonderful way to enjoy comfort food while keeping your health goals in check. You’re invited to make it, share it with loved ones, and pin it for future cravings. Let’s embrace the joy of cooking and the love of delicious meals together!
Print
Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Carb, Gluten-Free
Description
A delightful low-carb casserole loaded with tender chicken, creamy cheeses, and vibrant vegetables, perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup cauliflower, riced
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and chicken broth until the mixture is smooth.
- Stir in the shredded chicken, broccoli florets, riced cauliflower, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well incorporated.
- Transfer the creamy mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and the cheese is melted.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
Can prep ahead and store in the fridge for up to 2 days or freeze for about 2 months. Perfect for meal prep.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
