Description
This creamy low-carb chicken casserole features tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a rich cheese sauce, making it a satisfying and healthy comfort food option. Perfect for a cozy meal, it’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup cauliflower florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and oregano on both sides.
- Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Once cooled, chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- If using fresh broccoli and cauliflower, chop them into small florets. If using frozen, add them directly to the skillet.
- Add the broccoli and cauliflower to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Sauté for an additional 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp. If using frozen vegetables, cook until heated through.
- In a medium bowl, combine the heavy cream, chicken broth, and softened cream cheese. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
- Add a pinch of salt and pepper to the mixture, adjusting to taste. You can also add more thyme or oregano if desired.
- Fold in half of the shredded cheddar cheese, reserving the other half for topping later.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped chicken, sautéed vegetables, and creamy sauce. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. If desired, add the grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from burning.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once cooked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Serve the low carb chicken casserole warm, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives if desired.
- This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete low-carb meal.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in your favorite spices or herbs before cooking.
- Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes