© Original Recipe By Serena’s Delights ©
🍗🥒 Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole: Your Healthy Comfort Food
1. Introduction
Imagine digging into a bubbling, creamy chicken bake that’s as comforting as your favorite casserole but packed with wholesome, low carb ingredients. The low carb chicken casserole is a perfect solution for those seeking a hearty, satisfying meal without the carb overload. This recipe combines tender chicken, rich sauces, and crisp vegetables into a one-pan wonder that elevates your dinner repertoire with flavor and health in mind.
2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 45 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Low Carb & Nutritious: Uses high-protein chicken and low-carb vegetables to keep you fueled.
- Creamy & Flavorful: Bursting with aromatic herbs and cheesy goodness for irresistible taste.
- One-Pan Cooking: Minimal cleanup, maximizing convenience and flavor infusion.
3. Ingredient Notes
The magic of this healthy chicken casserole lies in selecting high-quality ingredients. Opt for organic, free-range chicken breasts for tender, juicy meat. Using full-fat cream cheese and shredded cheese adds richness without the carbs. Fresh herbs like thyme and parsley brighten the dish, while cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles serve as perfect low-carb bases. For best taste, choose fresh vegetables and high-quality dairy products—these truly make a difference in flavor and texture.
4. Kitchen Tools You Need
Preparing this dish is a breeze with the right tools. Using a Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer helps achieve crispy toppings and evenly cooked chicken, reducing the need for multiple appliances. A good quality Nonstick Cookware Set ensures easy stirring and prevents sticking. For assembling and mixing ingredients, a sturdy KitchenAid Artisan Stand Mixer is a versatile addition to your kitchen arsenal.
5. How to Make Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole
Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs. Sear them in a hot skillet until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side. The aroma of cooking chicken should fill your kitchen, signaling deliciousness to come. Let the chicken rest while you prepare the sauce.
Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add cream cheese, heavy cream, and shredded cheese, stirring until smooth and bubbly. This creates a luscious, silky sauce that coats every bite. Incorporate chopped herbs for freshness and flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Assemble and Bake
Chop the seared chicken into bite-sized pieces and combine with cooked cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles in a baking dish. Pour the cheesy sauce over and stir gently to distribute evenly. Cover with a sprinkle of cheese for that golden crust. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, or until bubbling and caramelized on top. The smell of melting cheese and baked aromatics will make your mouth water.
6. Expert Tips for Success
- Use a meat thermometer: Ensure chicken reaches 165°F internally for safety and juiciness.
- Drain excess liquids: If your sauce gets too runny, simmer a bit longer to reduce.
- Customize the veggies: Swap cauliflower for broccoli or add spinach for extra greens.
- Meal prep: This casserole keeps well for leftovers—store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
7. Variations & Substitutions
If dairy isn’t your thing, substitute cream cheese with coconut cream for a dairy-free version. For a more spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or hot sauce into the sauce. Craving crunch? Toss some crushed pork rinds on top before baking. Vegetarians can swap chicken for roasted cauliflower or firm tofu—just adjust the seasonings accordingly.
8. Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. Cover with foil for even heating and prevent drying out. This casserole tastes just as good reheated, making it perfect for meal prep and leftovers.
9. FAQ
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate overnight. Bake when ready, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if cold from the fridge.
Is this recipe suitable for keto diets?
Absolutely. It’s low in carbs and high in healthy fats and proteins, making it perfect for keto and low carb lifestyles.
What’s the best cheese to use?
Ash shredded mozzarella, cheddar, or a mild Swiss work well. Use high-quality cheese for optimal flavor and meltability.
Can I add vegetables?
Definitely! Broccoli florets, mushrooms, or spinach blend beautifully into the creamy sauce and add extra nutrition.
10. Conclusion
This cream cheese low carb chicken casserole is your new go-to for a healthful, hearty meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Its creamy, cheesy goodness paired with tender chicken makes it family-friendly and perfect for meal prep. Embrace this nutritious comfort food and enjoy a delicious, low carb lifestyle with every bite!
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Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole
A simple, flavorful, and creamy low carb chicken casserole with cheese and herbs.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Stir in shredded chicken and half of the cheese.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish and top with remaining cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
Notes
- You can add sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor.
- Use cooked chicken for quick assembly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 370 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 580 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 125 mg
