Looking for a quick and healthy meal the whole family will love? This Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is your answer! Packed with tender chicken, fresh veggies, and creamy cheese, it’s both satisfying and simple to make. I’ll guide you through every step, so you’ll look like a kitchen hero with minimal effort. Get ready to transform dinner time into a fun and delicious experience that keeps everyone smiling!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 cup fresh broccoli florets, lightly steamed
– 1 cup cauliflower rice
For this easy low carb chicken casserole, you need a few main ingredients. First, we have shredded cooked chicken. You can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for convenience. Fresh broccoli florets add a nice crunch and color. Cauliflower rice acts as a great low-carb substitute for regular rice.
Dairy Ingredients
– 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature
– 1/2 cup sour cream
Next, for the creamy texture, we need some dairy products. Grated sharp cheddar cheese gives a rich flavor. Cream cheese adds a smooth and creamy base. Sour cream brings tang and richness, making this casserole even better.
Seasonings and Garnish
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped (for garnish)
Seasonings enhance the dish’s taste. Garlic powder and onion powder add depth. Use salt and pepper to balance the flavors. Finally, sprinkle chopped green onions on top before serving. This adds a fresh touch and bright color. For the full recipe, check out the instructions to make this delightful dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
– In a large bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and sour cream. Blend until smooth and free of lumps.
Mixing Ingredients
– Add the shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, and cauliflower rice to the cream mixture.
– Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until every piece is coated.
Baking Instructions
– Transfer the mixed ingredients into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
– Top with the grated cheddar cheese, covering it all.
– Bake for 25-30 minutes. Look for bubbling and melted cheese.
– Let it cool a few minutes, then garnish with green onions. Enjoy this tasty dish!
For the full recipe, check out the ingredients list above.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
– Ensure chicken is well-shredded. Shredded chicken mixes better with other ingredients.
– Steam broccoli just until tender. This keeps the broccoli bright and fresh.
Serving Suggestions
– Garnish with green onions. This adds a nice crunch and color.
– Pair with a side salad for balance. A salad gives a fresh contrast to the casserole.
Optimal Baking
– Monitor cheese melting for perfect texture. You want it to be bubbly and golden.
– Allow to cool slightly before serving. This helps set the dish and makes it easier to serve.
For the full recipe, check out the detailed steps to create this tasty dish!
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can easily change this dish with different veggies. Try using spinach or bell peppers. They add great taste and color. You can also swap the chicken for turkey or beef. This makes the dish fun and keeps it fresh.
Flavor Enhancements
Want to spice it up? Add paprika or cumin for a kick. These spices can really change the flavor. You can also use different types of cheese. Try mozzarella or gouda for a new twist. Mixing flavors makes your casserole more exciting.
Dietary Adjustments
If you need it dairy-free, you can use coconut cream or almond milk. These options work well and keep the dish creamy. For a nut-free version, just skip any nut-based products. This way, everyone can enjoy a tasty meal together.
For the full recipe of this easy low carb chicken casserole, check out the section above.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
After you enjoy your casserole, let it cool down. Store it in an airtight container. Place it in the fridge. This keeps it fresh for about three to four days. Avoid leaving it out at room temperature for longer than two hours. This helps keep harmful bacteria away.
Reheating Tips
When you are ready to eat leftovers, use the oven or the microwave. The oven helps keep the texture nice. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes. If you use the microwave, heat in short bursts. Check every minute to prevent overcooking.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze the chicken casserole for later. First, let it cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can last up to three months. When you want to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat it in the oven for the best results. You can find the full recipe in the article for more details.
FAQs
What makes this casserole low carb?
This casserole is low carb because it uses ingredients that are low in sugar and starch. The main ingredients include:
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 cup fresh broccoli florets, lightly steamed
– 1 cup cauliflower rice
Cauliflower rice is a great substitute for regular rice. It cuts the carbs while adding fiber and nutrients. Broccoli adds crunch and vitamins, making this dish healthy. The creamy mixture of cream cheese and sour cream adds flavor without extra carbs. With these ingredients, you can enjoy a tasty meal that fits your low-carb needs.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this casserole ahead of time. Here are some tips:
– Prepare the casserole as directed but do not bake it.
– Cover it and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
– When ready to eat, just bake it straight from the fridge.
This saves you time on busy nights. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just follow the same steps and wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw it in the fridge before baking for best results.
Can I substitute cooked chicken for another protein?
Absolutely! You can use other proteins like turkey or shredded beef. Just keep in mind:
– Turkey and chicken cook similarly, so you can swap them easily.
– If you use beef, ensure it is cooked well ahead of time to avoid undercooking.
Using different proteins can change the flavor of the dish. Feel free to get creative and use what you have on hand!
This blog post covered a easy and tasty casserole. I shared key ingredients like chicken, broccoli, and cheese. We walked through simple steps for mixing and baking. I provided tips for serving and storage to keep it fresh. You can switch ingredients for variety to fit your taste.
In the end, this dish is flexible and fun to make. It’s perfect for any meal or occasion. Enjoy creating your own version!
