When you’re looking for a dinner that is both satisfying and mindful of your carbohydrate intake, this Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole comes to the rescue. Designed with wholesome ingredients, it’s the kind of meal that proves you don’t have to sacrifice flavor to eat healthy for dinner.
The Low Carb Advantage
Low-carb cooking isn’t just a trend—it’s a lifestyle that helps you manage your energy levels and supports balanced nutrition. By replacing high-carb sides with nutrient-dense vegetables like cauliflower and broccoli, this casserole offers a delightful twist on traditional comfort food.
Gathering Your Ingredients
Before you start, assemble your ingredients. Here’s a quick look:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Thighs or Breasts | 1 lb | Boneless, skinless preferred |
| Cauliflower Florets | 2 cups | As a low-carb rice substitute |
| Broccoli Florets | 1 cup | Adds crunch and nutrients |
| Cheddar or Mozzarella Cheese | 1 cup shredded | For a melty, satisfying finish |
| Heavy Cream or Almond Milk | ½ cup | For creaminess |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves | For aromatic flavor |
| Olive Oil | 2 tbsp | For cooking |
| Spices (Thyme, Rosemary) | ½ tsp each | For herby depth |
| Salt & Pepper | To taste | Essential seasoning |
Cooking Process: Step by Step
- Prepare and Brown the Chicken:
Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season your chicken with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary before searing each side until lightly browned. This not only locks in the juices but also creates a lovely caramelized flavor. - Vegetable Preparation:
While the chicken browns, steam or roast the cauliflower and broccoli until just tender. These vegetables serve as the low-carb base for your casserole and absorb the rich flavors of the sauce. - Assemble the Casserole:
In a large baking dish, layer the chicken and vegetables. Pour over the heavy cream or almond milk and add the minced garlic. Stir gently to combine the flavors. Top the dish with a generous layer of shredded cheese. - Bake to Perfection:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The aroma filling your kitchen will remind you that a truly healthy for dinner meal can also be indulgent.
Extra Tips & Customizations
- For a Dairy-Free Version: Substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese.
- Herbal Twist: Feel free to experiment with additional herbs such as basil or oregano.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole the night before and simply reheat for a hassle-free dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I keep the chicken moist?
Searing before baking and letting the casserole rest for a few minutes helps maintain moisture. - Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes—but ensure they’re thawed and drained to prevent excess water. - Any storage tips?
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently in the oven to preserve texture.
This Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is a heartwarming reminder that eating well can be both satisfying and nutritious. With tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a gooey cheesy topping, you’re serving up a dinner that’s as healthy for dinner as it is delicious. Try it tonight, and don’t hesitate to customize the recipe to suit your taste. Enjoy the comforting flavors and share your culinary success with friends and family!
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Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole – A Perfect Healthy for Dinner Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Description
Enjoy a comforting, nutrient-packed chicken casserole that’s low in carbohydrates and high in flavor. This recipe features tender chicken, a medley of low-carb vegetables, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, all baked to bubbly perfection. It’s an ideal healthy dinner option for those watching their carb intake without compromising on taste.
Ingredients
For the Chicken & Vegetables:
- 1 lb Chicken breast diced ( Boneless and skinless)
- 2 tbsp Olive oil (For browning the chicken)
- 1 medium Zucchini (Diced into 1/2-inch pieces)
- 1 medium Bell pepper any color ( Diced)
- 1 cup Broccoli florets (Cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 medium Onion (Diced)
- 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1 1/2 cups Heavy cream or unsweetened almond milk (For a lighter version use almond milk)
- 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese (Use a blend of your favorite cheeses)
- 1/2 cup Chicken broth (Low-sodium preferred)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (Adds tanginess)
- 1/2 tsp Paprika (Optional for a smoky flavor)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1/2 cup Spinach (Fresh roughly chopped)
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray.
Brown the Chicken:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm 2 tablespoons olive oil.
- Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until lightly browned on all sides (about 5–7 minutes). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and slightly softened (about 2 minutes).
- Add the diced zucchini, bell pepper, and broccoli florets (and spinach if using). Cook for another 3–4 minutes until the vegetables are just tender.
- Season with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Return the browned chicken to the skillet and stir to combine.
Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream (or almond milk), chicken broth, Dijon mustard, and shredded cheddar cheese until smooth.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. The sauce should be creamy and well-seasoned.
Assemble and Bake:
- Transfer the chicken and vegetable mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the top, ensuring the ingredients are well coated.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives before serving. Enjoy your hearty, healthy, low carb chicken casserole!
Notes
- For a lower-calorie version, substitute heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk and reduce the cheese amount slightly.
- Feel free to add other low-carb vegetables like cauliflower or green beans based on your preference.
- Ensure the casserole is baked just until bubbly to retain a creamy texture.
- This dish pairs nicely with a simple side salad or steamed greens for a complete, balanced meal.
Enjoy your Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole—a satisfying and nutritious dinner that delivers rich, creamy flavors with a healthy twist!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 380
