Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
Enjoy a delicious and satisfying low carb meal with this creamy chicken casserole, perfect for any occasion.
This creamy low carb chicken casserole is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, rich cream, and a medley of vegetables. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture that's utterly satisfying
- Packed with protein and low in carbohydrates
- Simple to prepare, making it a great weeknight meal
A Perfect Weeknight Meal
Finding a meal that is both satisfying and easy to prepare can be a challenge, especially during busy weeknights. This creamy low carb chicken casserole offers a solution by combining convenience and flavor in one dish. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a hearty meal ready to serve the whole family. It's a dish that can be made ahead of time and reheated, making it perfect for meal prep enthusiasts.
The versatility of this casserole allows you to customize it to your taste. You can easily swap in your favorite low carb vegetables or add extra spices to enhance the flavor. Whether you're looking to impress guests or simply want a comforting meal at home, this casserole is a reliable go-to.
Health Benefits
This creamy low carb chicken casserole is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. The inclusion of chicken provides a rich source of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health. Meanwhile, the broccoli and cauliflower add a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber, which are important for digestion and immune support.
By keeping the carbohydrates low, this dish is suitable for anyone following a ketogenic or low carb lifestyle. It offers a guilt-free indulgence without sacrificing satisfaction, making it a perfect choice for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle while still enjoying their favorite comfort foods.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, this casserole stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quicker option. The flavors actually meld together even more after a day in the fridge, making it an excellent dish for meal prepping.
For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole before or after baking. If freezing before baking, ensure to wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed. If you freeze it after baking, simply reheat from frozen, allowing extra time in the oven to ensure it’s heated all the way through.
Ingredients
For the Casserole
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Sauté Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until the onions are translucent. Add the broccoli and cauliflower, cooking until just tender.
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, sautéed vegetables, heavy cream, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Stir in half of the shredded cheese.
Bake the Casserole
Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining shredded cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy low carb chicken casserole!
Serve warm and enjoy a delicious low carb meal!
Ingredient Substitutions
One of the best aspects of this creamy low carb chicken casserole is its flexibility. If you're not a fan of broccoli or cauliflower, you can easily substitute them with other low carb vegetables like zucchini or spinach. These alternatives will still give you a nutrient-packed dish without adding unnecessary carbs.
For those who need a dairy-free option, consider replacing the heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream. Similarly, you can use dairy-free cheese if you want to keep it plant-based. These substitutions help maintain the creamy texture while accommodating various dietary needs.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a star on its own, but you can elevate your meal by serving it with a fresh side salad. A simple mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette will complement the richness of the casserole beautifully. The crunch of the salad will also add a refreshing contrast to the creamy texture.
If you're looking to make it a more substantial meal, consider serving the casserole with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. These options maintain the low carb theme while adding an extra layer of flavor and texture to your dining experience.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli and cauliflower. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding.
→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use coconut cream or a low carb cream cheese mixture as a substitute.
→ How can I make this dish dairy-free?
Use coconut cream and dairy-free cheese alternatives to keep it dairy-free.
→ Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and bake it when ready to serve.
Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole
Enjoy a delicious and satisfying low carb meal with this creamy chicken casserole, perfect for any occasion.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
For the Casserole
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until the onions are translucent. Add the broccoli and cauliflower, cooking until just tender.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, sautéed vegetables, heavy cream, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Stir in half of the shredded cheese.
Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining shredded cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy low carb chicken casserole!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 26g