Healthy Creamy Chicken Casserole Recipe
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This Healthy Creamy Chicken Casserole is a delightful combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy sauce, all baked to perfection. It's a comforting dish that is both nutritious and delicious.
This casserole is not just healthy but also packed with flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and can be easily customized with your favorite vegetables or spices.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture with a hint of garlic and herbs
- Packed with protein and veggies for a balanced meal
- Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep
A Comforting Family Meal
This Healthy Creamy Chicken Casserole is the perfect dish to bring the family together around the dinner table. The combination of tender chicken and fresh vegetables creates a hearty meal that everyone will love. Not only is it comforting, but it also offers a nutritious option that satisfies both adults and kids alike.
With its creamy texture and flavorful ingredients, this casserole is ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions. You can easily prepare it ahead of time and simply pop it in the oven when you're ready to eat. It’s a fantastic way to ensure your family gets a balanced meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Nutritious Ingredients
This casserole is packed with wholesome ingredients that contribute to a nutritious meal. The inclusion of chicken provides a healthy dose of protein, essential for muscle health and overall wellness. Meanwhile, the vibrant vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and green beans add fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making this dish a well-rounded option for any diet.
The low-fat cream of chicken soup and milk keep the casserole creamy without the added calories that come with traditional recipes. This means you can enjoy a rich flavor without compromising on your health goals. It's a win-win for anyone looking to indulge in comfort food without the guilt.
Meal Prep Made Easy
One of the best features of this Healthy Creamy Chicken Casserole is its suitability for meal prep. You can prepare the casserole in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and simply bake it when needed. This makes it an excellent option for busy individuals or families who want to have wholesome meals ready to go during the week.
Additionally, leftovers can be easily stored and reheated without losing flavor or texture, ensuring that your healthy meal doesn't go to waste. This casserole is not just a dinner option; it can also serve as a satisfying lunch throughout the week.
Ingredients
For the Casserole
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 1 cup low-fat cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup low-fat milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded low-fat cheese
Mix all ingredients well before transferring to the baking dish.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, broccoli, carrots, green beans, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread evenly and sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
Bake
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your healthy creamy chicken casserole!
Serve warm and enjoy with your favorite side salad.
Tips for Customization
Feel free to customize this casserole to suit your taste preferences. You can easily swap out the vegetables for others that you enjoy or have on hand. Zucchini, bell peppers, or even spinach can make excellent additions, adding new flavors and nutrients to the dish.
If you're looking to change up the protein, turkey or even a plant-based protein can work wonderfully in this recipe. Experimenting with different ingredients not only keeps the meal interesting but also allows you to explore new flavor combinations with every preparation.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your dining experience, consider serving this Healthy Creamy Chicken Casserole with a side of whole grain bread or a fresh garden salad. The bread can help soak up any extra sauce while the salad adds a refreshing crunch that complements the creamy casserole.
For an added boost of flavor, a light drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving can enhance the dish beautifully. These simple additions can transform your meal into a gourmet experience that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Storage and Reheating
Storing leftovers is a breeze with this casserole. Allow any uneaten portions to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, making it a convenient option for quick meals during a busy week.
When it comes time to reheat, simply place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or you can use a microwave for faster results. Just be sure to cover it to maintain moisture and ensure even heating throughout.
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.
→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and bake it when you're ready to serve.
→ What can I substitute for the cream of chicken soup?
You can use homemade cream of chicken soup or substitute with a cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free.
Healthy Creamy Chicken Casserole Recipe
This Healthy Creamy Chicken Casserole is a delightful combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy sauce, all baked to perfection. It's a comforting dish that is both nutritious and delicious.
Created by: Camilla Rhodes
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Casserole
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 1 cup low-fat cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup low-fat milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded low-fat cheese
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, broccoli, carrots, green beans, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread evenly and sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
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: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
- Sodium: 540mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 34g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 30g