Introduction
Welcome to a comforting recipe that’s sure to become a weeknight favorite in your home: a delicious Low Carb Chicken Casserole! This dish is a delightful blend of tender, shredded chicken and vibrant veggies, all smothered in a creamy cheese sauce that’s both rich and satisfying. Perfect for those who are looking to enjoy hearty flavors without the carbs, this casserole is simple to prepare and ideal for meal prep. Let’s dive into this warm and inviting recipe that will fill your kitchen with delightful aromas!
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- 1 cup diced bell peppers
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole will cook evenly and develop a golden top.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, broccoli florets, cauliflower florets, and diced bell peppers. Add half of the shredded cheddar cheese and mix well to combine.
- In a separate bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning until smooth. This creamy mixture adds a luscious texture to your casserole.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the chicken and vegetable blend, stirring until everything is wonderfully coated.
- Transfer this rich mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly for the best cooking results.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole, creating a deliciously cheesy crust.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling blissfully and the cheese has melted into a perfect golden hue.
- Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to customize the vegetables to your preference or based on what you have on hand! Zucchini or spinach would be great alternatives.
- This casserole can be refrigerated and reheated, making it perfect for meal prep throughout the week.
- For an extra kick, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture.
Cooking Techniques
Creating a wonderful casserole is all about layering flavors and textures. The initial step of mixing the softened cream cheese with the ingredients ensures a smooth and creamy base. Baking at the right temperature allows the flavors to meld beautifully while giving it that desirable bubbly and golden finish. If you want to achieve an extra crispy top, you can broil the casserole for a couple of minutes at the end, but keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
FAQ
- Can I use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken? Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds extra flavor.
- Is this casserole suitable for freezing? Yes, you can freeze it! Just make sure to store it in an airtight container, and let it cool completely before freezing.
- What can I serve with this casserole? A simple side salad or some steamed vegetables would pair beautifully with this creamy dish.
Conclusion
This Low Carb Chicken Casserole is not just a meal; it’s an embrace on a plate! Packed with nourishing ingredients and creamy goodness, it’s perfect for family dinners or satisfying meal prep for the week ahead. Enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite, and watch how quickly it becomes a beloved favorite at your dinner table. Happy cooking!