Low Carb Chicken Casserole: Delicious & Easy Keto Recipe

Low Carb Chicken Casserole: Prepare to be amazed! Imagine a dish so comforting, so flavorful, and so incredibly satisfying that you’d never guess it’s actually good for you. This isn’t your grandma’s heavy, carb-laden casserole; this is a modern, guilt-free take on a classic comfort food, designed to nourish your body and delight your taste buds.

Casseroles have a long and storied history, evolving from humble peasant fare to beloved family staples. They represent resourcefulness and warmth, a way to stretch ingredients and create a hearty meal for everyone to enjoy. While traditional casseroles often rely on starches like pasta or rice, this Low Carb Chicken Casserole embraces a different approach, focusing on lean protein, vibrant vegetables, and creamy, cheesy goodness without the carb overload.

What makes this dish so irresistible? It’s the perfect combination of textures – tender chicken, crisp-tender vegetables, and a rich, bubbly cheese topping. The flavor profile is equally enticing, with savory chicken mingling with the sweetness of bell peppers and the subtle tang of cream cheese. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient! This casserole is a fantastic make-ahead meal, perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks. It’s a delicious and easy way to enjoy a comforting classic while staying on track with your health goals. Get ready to experience the ultimate in low-carb comfort food!

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 1 (10.75 oz) can cream of mushroom soup (low carb version or homemade)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp salt (or to taste)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella, or a blend)
• Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• Optional: 1/2 cup riced cauliflower, cooked and drained well (for added bulk and fiber)

Preparing the Chicken and Vegetables:

1. Prepare the Chicken: First, grab your chicken breasts and cut them into bite-sized cubes, about 1-inch each. This helps them cook evenly and makes the casserole easier to eat. Set them aside for now.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Don’t rush this step; letting the onions soften properly really builds the flavor base.
3. Add Garlic and Peppers: Add the minced garlic, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peppers are slightly softened. The aroma at this point should be amazing!
4. Cook the Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Mushrooms add a wonderful earthy flavor to the casserole.
5. Brown the Chicken: Push the vegetables to the side of the skillet and add the cubed chicken. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides and mostly cooked through. It doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this point, as it will finish cooking in the oven.
6. Drain Excess Liquid (If Necessary): If there’s a lot of excess liquid in the skillet after cooking the chicken and vegetables, drain it off. This will prevent the casserole from being too watery.

Making the Creamy Sauce:

1. Combine Soup and Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and softened cream cheese. Make sure the cream cheese is really soft; otherwise, it will be difficult to mix smoothly. You can microwave it for a few seconds if needed.
2. Add Chicken Broth: Gradually add the chicken broth to the soup and cream cheese mixture, whisking until smooth. This will thin out the sauce and make it easier to pour over the chicken and vegetables.
3. Incorporate Parmesan and Seasonings: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, dried Italian seasoning, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
4. Optional: Add Riced Cauliflower: If you’re using riced cauliflower, stir it into the sauce at this point. Make sure it’s well-drained to avoid a watery casserole.

Assembling and Baking the Casserole:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the casserole cooks evenly.
2. Combine Chicken, Vegetables, and Sauce: Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken and vegetables in the skillet. Stir well to combine, making sure everything is evenly coated.
3. Transfer to Baking Dish: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. You can use cooking spray or a little olive oil to grease the dish.
4. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella, or your cheese blend) evenly over the top of the casserole. This will create a delicious, melty topping.
5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
6. Broil (Optional): For a more golden-brown and bubbly cheese topping, you can broil the casserole for the last 1-2 minutes of baking. Watch it carefully to prevent burning!
7. Rest: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and prevents it from being too runny.
8. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy! This casserole is delicious on its own or with a side of steamed vegetables or a green salad.

Tips and Variations:

• Use Different Vegetables: Feel free to substitute other low-carb vegetables, such as broccoli florets, zucchini, or asparagus.
• Add Bacon: Cooked and crumbled bacon adds a smoky flavor and extra protein.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
• Make it Ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
• Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker meal, use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of cooking the chicken breasts yourself.
• Cream of Chicken Soup Substitute: If you can’t find a low-carb cream of mushroom soup, you can use cream of chicken soup or make your own using a roux of butter and almond flour, chicken broth, and seasonings.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, provolone, or pepper jack.
• Herb Variations: Try using different herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano, instead of Italian seasoning.
• Make it Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cream cheese and dairy-free shredded cheese to make this casserole dairy-free. You can also use coconut milk instead of cream of mushroom soup.
• Storage: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

• Serving Size: 1/6 of the casserole
• Calories: Approximately 350-400
• Net Carbs: Approximately 5-7 grams
• Protein: Approximately 30-35 grams
• Fat: Approximately 20-25 grams

Enjoy your delicious and easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole!

Conclusion:

So there you have it! This Low Carb Chicken Casserole isn’t just another recipe; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen, and trust me, you absolutely need to try it. I know, I know, I’m biased, but seriously, the combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and that satisfying cheesy topping is pure comfort food bliss, without all the carbs weighing you down. It’s the perfect weeknight meal when you’re craving something hearty and delicious but don’t want to derail your low-carb goals. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to throw together, making it a lifesaver on busy evenings.

But what truly makes this casserole a must-try is its versatility. Feel free to get creative and adapt it to your own tastes. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce. If you’re a mushroom lover, sauté some sliced mushrooms and stir them in before baking. Want to sneak in some extra veggies? Broccoli florets, chopped spinach, or bell peppers would all be fantastic additions. You could even swap out the cheddar cheese for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorite cheeses. The possibilities are endless!

Serving Suggestions: This Low Carb Chicken Casserole is delicious on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is a classic choice. For a heartier meal, try serving it with roasted asparagus, steamed green beans, or cauliflower rice. If you’re not strictly low-carb, a side of quinoa or brown rice would also be a great complement. And don’t forget the garnishes! A sprinkle of fresh parsley, chives, or green onions adds a pop of color and freshness.

I’ve made this casserole countless times, and it’s always a hit with my family and friends. They rave about the creamy texture, the flavorful chicken, and the overall satisfying taste. It’s a dish that everyone can enjoy, regardless of their dietary preferences. And the best part? It’s so easy to make that even a novice cook can whip it up with confidence.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the deliciousness of this Low Carb Chicken Casserole. I promise you won’t be disappointed. It’s a game-changer for anyone looking for a healthy, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal. I truly believe that this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen, just like it has in mine.

Once you’ve tried it, I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you make any variations? What did you serve it with? What did your family think? Share your thoughts and photos in the comments below. I’m always eager to learn from my readers and see how they’re making my recipes their own. Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite of this amazing Low Carb Chicken Casserole!

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