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rice or potatoes, cauliflower absorbs the flavors of the dish while adding fiber and nutrients.
Optional Add-ins:
- Cooked Bacon – Adds extra smoky flavor and a crispy texture.
- Mushrooms – Sautéed mushrooms can add an earthy richness to the casserole.
- Zucchini – Thinly sliced zucchini adds moisture and texture, making the casserole even more filling.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is simple and straightforward. Here’s how you can whip up this delicious, low-carb dish in no time:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Cook the Chicken:
- Start by cooking your chicken breasts. You can either bake, grill, or pan-sear the chicken until it’s fully cooked (an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C). Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before shredding it into bite-sized pieces. You can also use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
- Cook the Cauliflower:
- While the chicken is cooking, chop the cauliflower into florets. Steam or microwave the cauliflower until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess water and mash the cauliflower slightly with a fork or potato masher to create a rice-like texture.
- Sauté the Spinach:
- In a large pan, sauté the fresh spinach in a little bit of olive oil or butter until wilted. This step helps release excess moisture and adds a soft, flavorful layer to the casserole.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- Combine Cream Cheese and Heavy Cream:
- In a separate saucepan, melt the cream cheese over low heat. Once it’s soft and creamy, slowly add the heavy cream, stirring continuously until you have a smooth, creamy sauce. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a little more cream cheese.
- Add Seasonings:
- To the sauce, add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir everything together and let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Combine All Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, steamed cauliflower, sautéed spinach, and the creamy sauce. Stir everything together until evenly combined.
- Add Cheese:
- Add about half of the shredded cheddar cheese to the mixture and stir it in. This will help bind everything together and make the casserole extra cheesy.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
- Transfer to Baking Dish:
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Top with Cheese:
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole, covering it evenly.
- Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. The cheese should be melted, and the casserole should be hot throughout.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve:
- Once the casserole is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set and makes it easier to scoop out.
You can serve this casserole on its own or with a side of fresh greens or a simple salad for a complete, low-carb meal.
Tips for the Perfect Low Carb Chicken Casserole
- Use Leftover Chicken: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken, saving you time on preparation.
- Make it Spicy: For a kick of heat, add chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the casserole mix.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to get creative with the veggies! Zucchini, mushrooms, or even broccoli are great additions that complement the other ingredients.
- Top with Bacon: For a crispy, smoky crunch, sprinkle crumbled bacon over the top before baking.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This casserole stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days and can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Just reheat it in the oven for the best results.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole
This casserole is a perfect combination of comfort food and health-conscious eating. With tender chicken, creamy cheese, and low-carb veggies, it’s a dish that satisfies both your cravings and your nutritional needs. Plus, it’s so easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a special dish to serve at a family gathering, this Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole will hit the spot. It’s cheesy, creamy, and full of flavor, making it a winning choice for anyone on a low-carb or keto diet, or simply looking for a delicious, healthier option.
Final Thoughts
Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is the answer to your comfort food cravings without the carbs. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can create a dish that’s full of flavor and nutrition. It’s a meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table, whether they’re following a low-carb diet or not. Try it today, and enjoy the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness and hearty chicken in every bite!