The moment the cream cheese melts into a warm, cheesy embrace of tender chicken and vibrant vegetables, you’ll feel an instant sense of comfort. As this casserole bubbles away in the oven, the enticing aroma of roasted garlic and thyme wafts through your kitchen, making it impossible not to gather around the table and share in the joy of a delicious, low-carb meal. Each scoop reveals a rich, creamy filling that’s as satisfying as it is nutritious.
What makes this recipe shine
This dish not only nurtures your body with wholesome ingredients but also delights your palate with a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The creamy layer created by the cream cheese pairs perfectly with the subtle crunch of broccoli and cauliflower, creating a symphony of comfort you won’t soon forget. The ease of preparation makes it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something truly heartwarming.
"This casserole is a game changer! Creamy, filling, and everything I want on a chilly evening." – A happy home cook.
How this dish comes together
Creating this casserole is a breeze! You’ll start by prepping your ingredients, ensuring the chicken is shredded and the vegetables are trimmed to bite-sized pieces. The recipe calls for a simple mix of chicken, veggies, and spices that meld together beautifully, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Next, we’ll form a luscious cream cheese base to tie everything together. It’s a straightforward yet rewarding process that anyone can master. Let’s dive into what you’ll need!
What you’ll need
To whip up this creamy low carb chicken casserole, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil or butter for greasing
For the best flavors, use high-quality ingredients. If you have leftover rotisserie chicken, it’s a perfect shortcut! If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using low-fat cream cheese or incorporating other veggies you love.
How to cook it
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, broccoli, cauliflower, garlic, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Give it a good mix—everything should feel cohesive.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese and chicken broth until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the chicken and vegetable mixture, stirring until every piece is coated in that luscious sauce.
- Grease a casserole dish with olive oil or butter, then pour in your vibrant chicken and veggie mixture.
- Top it all off with a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese; this is where the magic happens in the oven!
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Allow it to cool slightly before serving to let those flavors settle.
Serving ideas
Plating this hearty casserole is a delight, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or chives, can add a lovely pop of color and freshness. Pair it with a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast or serve alongside some roasted asparagus for that perfect crunch. If you want to elevate the meal, consider drizzling a bit of balsamic glaze atop for a tangy finish.
How to store and reheat
Leftovers? Don’t worry! Store any uneaten casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you’re looking to keep it longer, this dish freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Just remember to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and pop it in the oven until heated through, or microwave it for a quicker option.
Helpful cooking tips
- Cream Cheese Handling: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing. Microwaving it for a few seconds can help if you forget to take it out in advance.
- Layering Flavors: For an extra depth of flavor, consider sautéing your garlic in a splash of olive oil before adding it to the mix.
- Texture Check: Aim for a slightly thick mixture before transferring to the casserole dish. It should hold its shape but still be creamy.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheese blends! A mix of mozzarella and parmesan can add an interesting flavor twist.
- Make it Ahead: This casserole can be assembled a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and bake it fresh when you’re ready.
Ways to customize it
Feel free to make this recipe uniquely yours! Swap out the broccoli and cauliflower for your favorite low-carb vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. If you’re a fan of spice, toss in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick. For a creamy Italian twist, try adding some sun-dried tomatoes or Italian herbs. The possibilities are endless!
FAQ
Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked?
While you can use raw chicken, it will require much longer baking time and you’ll want to ensure it reaches 165°F internally.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
Greek yogurt or cottage cheese can be good alternatives, though they’ll provide a different texture and taste.
Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free cream alternative and use a dairy-free cheese on top. Just be mindful of the texture differences.
This creamy low carb chicken casserole is a delightful dish that brings warmth and satisfaction, making it a perfect addition to your weekly rotation or gathering with friends and family!
Print
Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole
A heartwarming casserole filled with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a creamy cheese sauce, perfect for chilly evenings.
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil or butter for greasing
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, broccoli, cauliflower, garlic, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until cohesive.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese and chicken broth until smooth.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the chicken and vegetable mixture, stirring until every piece is coated.
- Grease a casserole dish with olive oil or butter, then pour in the chicken and veggie mixture.
- Top with a layer of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until heated through and cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Use high-quality ingredients for best flavors. Leftover rotisserie chicken works well.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
