Healthy Creamy Chicken Casserole Recipe
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This Healthy Creamy Chicken Casserole Recipe is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy sauce for a delightful meal that the whole family will love.
This casserole is not just delicious but also packed with nutrients. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep for the week!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy and flavorful sauce that complements the chicken perfectly
- Packed with wholesome vegetables for added nutrition
- Easy to prepare and perfect for leftovers
A Comforting Family Meal
There's nothing quite like a warm, comforting casserole to bring the family together. This Healthy Creamy Chicken Casserole is designed to nourish both the body and the soul. With its rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken, it creates a satisfying meal that everyone will look forward to. The combination of fresh vegetables not only enhances the flavor profile but also adds essential nutrients that contribute to a balanced diet.
Perfect for busy weeknights, this casserole can be prepared in advance, making it an ideal option for families on the go. Simply assemble the dish earlier in the day, pop it in the oven when you're ready to eat, and enjoy quality time with your loved ones while it bakes to perfection.
Wholesome Ingredients
This recipe is packed with wholesome ingredients that contribute to its health benefits. Using shredded chicken, lean protein is the star of the dish, helping to keep you full and satisfied. The addition of vibrant vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and green beans not only adds color but also provides a variety of vitamins and minerals essential for good health.
Moreover, the use of low-fat cream of chicken soup and Greek yogurt creates a creamy texture without the excess calories and fat. This means you can indulge in a deliciously rich casserole while still making mindful choices about your nutrition.
Perfect for Leftovers
One of the best things about this Healthy Creamy Chicken Casserole is its versatility when it comes to leftovers. After enjoying the initial meal, you can easily store the remaining casserole in the refrigerator for a quick lunch or dinner later in the week. The flavors often deepen and improve after a day in the fridge, making it even more delicious.
Simply reheat in the oven or microwave, and you'll have a nourishing meal ready in no time. This not only saves you time but also reduces food waste, making it a smart choice for both your schedule and the environment.
Ingredients
Casserole Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- 1 cup low-fat cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 cup shredded low-fat cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup whole wheat pasta, cooked
Mix well to ensure all ingredients are combined evenly.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the Casserole Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, broccoli, carrots, green beans, cream of chicken soup, Greek yogurt, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
Add the Pasta
Fold in the cooked whole wheat pasta to the chicken and vegetable mixture.
Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish and spread it evenly.
Top with Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for Customization
This casserole is incredibly customizable, allowing you to cater it to your family's preferences. Feel free to swap out the vegetables for whatever you have on hand, such as spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. Each vegetable brings a unique flavor and texture that can elevate the dish in delightful ways.
You can also experiment with different proteins, such as turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option. The key is to maintain the balance of flavors and textures to ensure a satisfying meal.
Serving Suggestions
To enhance your dining experience, consider serving this casserole with a side salad or some whole-grain bread. The fresh greens will provide a crisp contrast to the creamy casserole, while the bread can be perfect for sopping up any extra sauce.
For those looking for a complete meal, pair it with a glass of light white wine or sparkling water with a slice of lemon to cleanse the palate and elevate the dining experience.
Storage and Reheating
When it comes to storing leftovers, place any uneaten casserole in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing individual portions for future meals.
When reheating, make sure to warm it through thoroughly, either in the microwave or in the oven at a low temperature. Covering it with foil while reheating in the oven can help retain moisture, ensuring each bite remains deliciously creamy.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use leftover chicken?
Yes, leftover or rotisserie chicken works great for this recipe.
→ Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just cover it tightly and bake it from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
→ What can I substitute for Greek yogurt?
You can substitute sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt if desired.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and check the labels of the cream of chicken soup.
Healthy Creamy Chicken Casserole Recipe
This Healthy Creamy Chicken Casserole Recipe is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy sauce for a delightful meal that the whole family will love.
Created by: Lillian Hayes
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: Serves 6
What You'll Need
Casserole Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- 1 cup low-fat cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 cup shredded low-fat cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup whole wheat pasta, cooked
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, broccoli, carrots, green beans, cream of chicken soup, Greek yogurt, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
Fold in the cooked whole wheat pasta to the chicken and vegetable mixture.
Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish and spread it evenly.
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 480mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 28g