Healthy Creamy Chicken Casserole Recipe
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This Healthy Creamy Chicken Casserole is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a light sauce for a nutritious family meal.
This casserole is perfect for busy weeknights when you want to serve a nutritious dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. With lean chicken and a medley of vegetables, it packs a punch of flavor and health benefits.
Reasons You'll Love This Recipe
- Light and creamy without the guilt
- Packed with protein and veggies
- Comfort food that the whole family will enjoy
A Nutritious Family Meal
This Healthy Creamy Chicken Casserole is more than just a meal; it's a wholesome dish that brings the family together. Combining tender, shredded chicken with an array of fresh vegetables, this casserole is packed with nutrients. Each bite is filled with vitamins from broccoli, carrots, and cauliflower, making it a great choice for those looking to incorporate more vegetables into their diets.
Moreover, this recipe is designed with health in mind. By using reduced-sodium cream of chicken soup and low-fat milk, you can enjoy the creamy texture without the added guilt. It's a perfect way to serve a comforting dish that doesn't compromise on nutrition.
Easy to Prepare
One of the best features of this casserole is its simplicity. The preparation involves just a few easy steps, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. From shredding the chicken to mixing the ingredients, the process is quick and straightforward. In less than an hour, you can have a delicious, hearty meal ready to serve.
Additionally, this dish is perfect for meal prep. You can easily double the recipe and store leftovers for busy weeknights or school lunches. Reheating is a breeze, ensuring that you have a nutritious meal at your fingertips whenever you need it.
Versatile and Customizable
Another great aspect of this Healthy Creamy Chicken Casserole is its versatility. While the recipe calls for specific vegetables, feel free to swap in your favorites or whatever you have on hand. Spinach, bell peppers, or even sweet potatoes can be great additions, allowing you to tailor the dish to your family’s taste preferences.
You can also modify the recipe to suit dietary needs. For instance, if you're looking for a gluten-free option, simply replace the whole wheat breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. This adaptability makes the casserole not only a family favorite but also a versatile solution for various dietary restrictions.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Casserole Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- 1 can (10.5 oz) reduced-sodium cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup low-fat milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded low-fat cheese
- 1 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
Mix all the ingredients well for a delicious casserole!
Instructions
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Casserole Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, broccoli, carrots, cauliflower, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the chicken mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle with shredded cheese and top with whole wheat breadcrumbs.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
Serve
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your healthy creamy chicken casserole!
This casserole is great served with a side salad.
Storage Tips
To store your Healthy Creamy Chicken Casserole, allow it to cool completely after baking. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. This dish also freezes well—portion it out into freezer-safe containers for quick meals later on. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
If you plan to freeze the casserole, consider leaving off the breadcrumbs until you're ready to bake. This will help maintain their crispiness and texture, ensuring your casserole tastes fresh and delicious even after freezing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Healthy Creamy Chicken Casserole with a side salad for a complete meal. A light, mixed greens salad with a simple vinaigrette can complement the richness of the casserole beautifully. Adding a refreshing side balances the flavors and enhances the overall dining experience.
For an extra touch, consider a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also elevates the dish’s flavor profile, making it visually appealing and even more delicious.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables work well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the mixture.
→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and cream of chicken soup.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Healthy Creamy Chicken Casserole Recipe
This Healthy Creamy Chicken Casserole is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a light sauce for a nutritious family meal.
Created by: Rosalie Mitchell
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Casserole Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- 1 can (10.5 oz) reduced-sodium cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup low-fat milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded low-fat cheese
- 1 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, broccoli, carrots, cauliflower, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Transfer the chicken mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle with shredded cheese and top with whole wheat breadcrumbs.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your healthy creamy chicken casserole!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 30g