🥦 Chicken Cheese Broccoli Casserole (Low-Carb & Beginner-Friendly)
💬 Description:
This creamy, cheesy, and protein-packed casserole is a low-carb comfort food classic that’s ready in under 30 minutes. With tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and melty cheese, it’s a perfect go-to for busy weeknights or meal prep. Easy enough for beginners and satisfying enough for the whole family!
📝 Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie works great!)
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed or blanched
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar & mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a protein boost)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (optional, for greasing dish)
👩🍳 Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with oil or butter.
- Steam or blanch broccoli until just tender (about 3–4 minutes), then drain well.
- In a large bowl, mix cream cheese, sour cream, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Add in chicken, broccoli, and half the shredded cheese. Mix well to coat.
- Transfer to the baking dish and top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until hot and bubbly with melted golden cheese on top.
- Serve warm, as a main or side!
🍽 Servings:
Makes 4 servings.
Perfect as a main dish or meal prep option!
💡 Tips:
- Make it creamier: Add 1/4 cup of heavy cream if you like it saucier.
- Extra crunch: Top with crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a keto-friendly crust.
- Vegetable swaps: Try cauliflower, spinach, or zucchini instead of broccoli.
- Protein boost: Add bacon bits, sausage, or a sprinkle of hemp seeds on top.
🍎 Nutritional Info (Per Serving – approx.):
- Calories: 320–370
- Protein: 28–32g
- Fat: 22–26g
- Carbs: 5–7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Net Carbs: 3–5g
- Sugar: <2g
(Based on standard ingredients. May vary with substitutions.)
💪 Health Benefits:
- Low in carbs and sugar – perfect for keto, diabetic, or low-carb lifestyles.
- High protein from chicken and cheese helps with satiety and muscle maintenance.
- Broccoli provides fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants.
- Cheese & dairy offer calcium and healthy fats
❓Q&A Section:
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to eat.
Q: Is this freezer-friendly?
A: Definitely. Freeze before baking, then thaw overnight and bake as directed. Or freeze after baking and reheat portions as needed.
Q: Can I use raw broccoli?
A: You can, but lightly steaming it ensures it’s tender and blends better with the creamy texture.
Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Yes—use dairy-free cream cheese, cheese alternatives, and coconut cream for a dairy-free version. Taste will vary but still great!
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in the fridge for 3–4 days in an airtight container. Reheat in microwave or oven.