Why Make This Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole
If you’re looking for a delicious meal that fits into a low-carb lifestyle, look no further than this Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole. It packs in flavor while keeping carbs to a minimum, making it perfect for satisfying cravings without straying from your diet. With tender chicken, crispy bacon, and vibrant broccoli, this dish is as nourishing as it is tasty. The creamy ranch dressing and gooey cheeses elevate the whole experience, making it a family-friendly meal that even picky eaters will love.
How to Make Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole
Making this Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is a breeze. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a comforting dish that’s ready to impress. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this casserole will come together quickly, allowing you to enjoy quality time with your loved ones.
Ingredients:
- 5 cups broccoli florets (or 1 pound frozen spinach, thawed and well-drained)
- 8 slices cooked bacon (chopped into 1/2-inch pieces)
- 4 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced into 1/2-inch pieces)
- 3 cloves garlic (finely minced)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar
- 1 cup ranch dressing (Hidden Valley Original Ranch preferred)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar (for topping, Tillamook Medium Cheddar recommended)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella (for topping)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (191°C).
- If using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess water. If you prefer fresh broccoli, boil it for 1-2 minutes until it’s bright green, then drain well.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, chopped bacon, prepared veggies, minced garlic, ranch dressing, and the shredded mozzarella and cheddar. Mix everything well until all ingredients are evenly coated. For fewer dishes, you can also mix all the components directly in your casserole dish.
- Transfer the mixture into a 9×13 inch casserole dish and spread it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheeses over the top, making it extra cheesy!
- Bake for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is hot, bubbly, and beautifully golden at the edges.
- Remove from the oven, let it cool for 5 minutes, then serve and enjoy!
Nutritional Information
Per serving (1/8 of the casserole):
- Calories: 480
- Total fat: 30g
- Saturated fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
- Sodium: 950mg
- Total carbohydrates: 5g
- Dietary fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 39g
How to Serve Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole
This casserole shines on its own but can also be paired with a fresh green salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Serve it as a hearty dinner, or portion it into meal-prep containers for grab-and-go lunches throughout the week. It’s great for gatherings, too—simply serve it at a potluck or family get-together for a crowd-pleasing dish.
How to Store Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or cover the dish with foil and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through. You can also freeze this casserole if you want to keep it longer; it will stay good for about 2 months in the freezer.
Expert Tips for Perfect Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quick assembly.
- Feel free to switch up the vegetables. Cauliflower or asparagus would also work nicely.
- Make it ahead of time! You can prepare the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled.
- Don’t skimp on the cheese if you’re a cheese lover! This dish is all about creamy goodness.
Delicious Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with a variety of mushrooms or chickpeas. You can also increase the vegetables for more depth.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to give the casserole a spicy twist.
- Creamy Dream: Mix in a block of cream cheese for an even creamier texture.
- Herbed Prominence: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an aromatic touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just wait to add the topping cheese until right before baking.What other cheese can I use?
If you’re looking for a different flavor, cheddar blends beautifully with gouda or pepper jack for some heat.Can I use raw chicken?
While it’s not recommended for this recipe since it cooks quickly, you can use raw chicken—but make sure to adjust the cooking time to at least 30-35 minutes to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Conclusion
The Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is a satisfying and flavor-packed meal that doesn’t compromise on taste or nutrition. With its simple preparation and comforting ingredients, it’s sure to become a staple in your household. So why not give it a try tonight? Share your thoughts or variations in the comments, and happy cooking!