Healthy Creamy Chicken Casserole Recipe
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This Healthy Creamy Chicken Casserole is a delightful combination of tender chicken, nutritious vegetables, and a creamy sauce, all baked to perfection.
This casserole is not only healthy but also incredibly comforting. Perfect for busy weeknights, it combines protein-packed chicken with a variety of colorful vegetables.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture without the guilt
- Packed with vegetables for added nutrition
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
Nutritional Benefits
This Healthy Creamy Chicken Casserole is not just delicious but also packed with nutritious ingredients. The combination of tender chicken and vibrant vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, and green beans ensures you’re getting a good dose of vitamins and minerals. Broccoli, for instance, is rich in vitamin C and fiber, making it an excellent choice for supporting your immune system and digestive health.
Moreover, by using low-fat cream of chicken soup and Greek yogurt, this recipe maintains a creamy texture while significantly reducing calorie content. Greek yogurt adds protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth, making this casserole a smart choice for a post-workout meal or a family dinner.
Meal Prep Made Easy
One of the best aspects of this Healthy Creamy Chicken Casserole is its versatility for meal prep. You can easily prepare a large batch on the weekend and portion it out for lunches or dinners throughout the week. Simply store the leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheating is a breeze; just pop it in the microwave or oven until heated through.
This casserole also freezes well, making it a great option for those busy days when cooking from scratch isn't feasible. Prepare individual servings, wrap them tightly, and freeze for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, just thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as desired.
Customization Options
Feel free to customize this casserole to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. If you’re not a fan of certain vegetables, you can easily swap them out for others. Cauliflower, bell peppers, or spinach would work beautifully in this dish. For a little extra flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary.
Additionally, if you want to make the dish even heartier, try incorporating cooked quinoa or brown rice into the mixture. This will not only enhance the nutritional profile but also add a satisfying texture, making it a filling meal for the entire family.
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 plain 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 breadcrumbs
Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl before transferring to a baking dish.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix cooked chicken, broccoli, carrots, green beans, cream of chicken soup, Greek yogurt, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Prepare the Casserole
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheese and breadcrumbs on top.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
Serve
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your healthy creamy chicken casserole!
This dish is great served with a side salad or whole grain bread.
Storage Tips
To keep your Healthy Creamy Chicken Casserole fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be kept for up to four days, making it perfect for leftovers. If you plan to eat it later, consider separating individual portions to simplify reheating.
For longer storage, freeze the casserole in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat until warm.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the casserole, providing freshness and crunch. You might also consider serving it with whole grain rolls or quinoa for a wholesome meal.
For an extra touch, garnish your casserole with fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor profile, making your dish even more inviting to your guests.
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 mixing.
→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Substitute whole wheat breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
→ What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a side salad or steamed rice for a complete meal.
Healthy Creamy Chicken Casserole Recipe
This Healthy Creamy Chicken Casserole is a delightful combination of tender chicken, nutritious vegetables, and a creamy sauce, all baked to perfection.
Created by: Lillian Hayes
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 green beans, trimmed
- 1 cup low-fat cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup plain 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 breadcrumbs
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, mix cooked chicken, broccoli, carrots, green beans, cream of chicken soup, Greek yogurt, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheese and breadcrumbs on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
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: 4g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 30g