Healthy Creamy Chicken Casserole Recipe
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This Healthy Creamy Chicken Casserole is a delightful blend of flavors and nutrition, perfect for family dinners.
This Healthy Creamy Chicken Casserole is not only nutritious but also packed with flavor. It combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy sauce that everyone will love.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- A wholesome meal that's ready in under an hour
- Creamy texture that satisfies your comfort food cravings
- Packed with vegetables for added nutrition
A Balanced Meal for Everyone
This Healthy Creamy Chicken Casserole is designed to cater to the whole family. With its harmonious blend of lean protein, colorful vegetables, and a creamy base, it provides a satisfying meal that appeals to both adults and children. The vibrant broccoli, carrots, and green beans not only add a splash of color but also boost the nutritional profile, making this dish a practical choice for busy weeknights.
Incorporating whole wheat pasta is a great way to enhance the fiber content, promoting better digestion and sustained energy. However, the recipe offers the flexibility to omit the pasta for a lighter option, ensuring it can fit into various dietary preferences and needs. Whether you're looking for a comforting dish or something nutritious, this casserole strikes the perfect balance.
Customization Options
One of the best features of this casserole is its versatility. Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand or what your family prefers. Zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach can easily replace the broccoli or green beans, allowing you to tailor the recipe to your taste. This flexibility not only keeps the meal exciting but also ensures you can make use of seasonal produce for maximum freshness.
Moreover, if you're a fan of different flavor profiles, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary, or even a splash of hot sauce for a bit of kick. These simple adjustments can elevate the dish and make it uniquely yours, providing an opportunity for creativity in the kitchen while still maintaining the health benefits.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make your casserole.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (low-fat)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded low-fat cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup whole wheat pasta (optional)
Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare your casserole.
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the Chicken Mixture
In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, broccoli, carrots, green beans, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Add Pasta (Optional)
If using pasta, cook according to package instructions, then add it to the chicken mixture.
Transfer to Casserole Dish
Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch casserole dish. Spread evenly.
Top with Cheese
Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the casserole.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until bubbling and golden brown.
Serve
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your healthy casserole!
Enjoy this dish with a side salad for a complete meal.
Nutritional Benefits
This casserole is a powerhouse of nutrition, primarily thanks to its inclusion of lean chicken and a variety of vegetables. Chicken is an excellent source of protein, essential for muscle development and repair. Meanwhile, the vegetables contribute vitamins A, C, and K, along with important minerals and antioxidants, which play a crucial role in maintaining overall health.
The use of low-fat cream of mushroom soup and low-sodium chicken broth not only enhances the flavor but also ensures that the dish remains heart-healthy. This recipe allows you to enjoy a creamy texture without the excess calories, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Overall, this casserole offers a delicious way to boost your nutrient intake while satisfying your taste buds.
Serving Suggestions
To make your meal even more enjoyable, consider pairing this casserole with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. A light vinaigrette can complement the creamy texture of the casserole beautifully, providing a refreshing contrast. Alternatively, crusty whole grain bread can round out the meal, perfect for scooping up any leftover cheesy goodness.
For a heartier option, serve the casserole alongside quinoa or brown rice. These whole grains add more fiber and nutrients, making your dinner even more satisfying. Don't forget to keep some fresh herbs on hand; a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives can elevate the dish visually and add a burst of flavor right before serving.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables work well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them before adding.
→ Is there a dairy-free option?
You can use dairy-free cream of mushroom soup and cheese substitutes if needed.
→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and then bake it when ready to serve.
→ What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed rice.
Healthy Creamy Chicken Casserole Recipe
This Healthy Creamy Chicken Casserole is a delightful blend of flavors and nutrition, perfect for family dinners.
Created by: Lillian Hayes
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (low-fat)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded low-fat cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup whole wheat pasta (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, broccoli, carrots, green beans, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
If using pasta, cook according to package instructions, then add it to the chicken mixture.
Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch casserole dish. Spread evenly.
Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the casserole.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until bubbling and golden brown.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your healthy casserole!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 30g