Healthy Creamy Chicken Casserole Recipe
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
Enjoy a delicious and nutritious twist on a classic dish with this Healthy Creamy Chicken Casserole Recipe. Packed with flavor and wholesome ingredients, it's perfect for family dinners.
This Healthy Creamy Chicken Casserole combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy sauce for a comforting meal that the whole family will love. It's a lighter version of the traditional casserole, making it perfect for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy flavor without the guilt
- Packed with protein and vegetables for a balanced meal
- Easy to prepare and perfect for leftovers
A Wholesome Twist on Comfort Food
Comfort food doesn’t have to be heavy or unhealthy. This Healthy Creamy Chicken Casserole gives you the rich flavors of a traditional dish while incorporating nutritious ingredients. By swapping out heavy creams for Greek yogurt and using whole wheat pasta, you can indulge without the guilt. This casserole is not only a feast for your taste buds but also a nourishing option for your body.
The combination of chicken, vegetables, and whole grains makes this dish a well-rounded meal. You’ll find yourself enjoying the warmth and satisfaction of a classic casserole, but with added health benefits. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in those essential nutrients for you and your family.
Meal Prep Made Easy
One of the best things about this casserole is its versatility and ease of preparation. You can whip it up in just a few steps, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Additionally, it stores well, meaning you can prepare a larger batch and enjoy it throughout the week. This is especially handy for those who like to meal prep or are looking to save time on cooking.
Simply assemble the casserole and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days, or freeze it for longer storage. When you're ready to eat, just pop it in the oven for a quick reheat. This means less time cooking and more time enjoying dinner with family and friends.
Customize to Your Taste
One of the joys of cooking is the freedom to customize recipes to suit your personal preferences. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or swap out the chicken for another protein like turkey or tofu. If you're a fan of different flavors, consider adding herbs and spices such as thyme or paprika to elevate the dish even further.
This Healthy Creamy Chicken Casserole is a blank canvas, ready for you to make it your own. Whether you prefer a cheesy topping or want to keep it lighter, the options are endless. Get creative and make it a family favorite that everyone can enjoy!
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious casserole.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup whole wheat pasta
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 cup shredded low-fat cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Healthy Creamy Chicken Casserole.
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add broccoli and carrots, sautéing until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
Prepare the Sauce
In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, sautéed vegetables, cooked pasta, and sauce. Mix well.
Bake the Casserole
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with shredded cheese and bake for 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
Serve and Enjoy
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your healthy creamy chicken casserole!
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Nutritional Benefits
This casserole is a powerhouse of nutrition, thanks to its wholesome ingredients. With lean protein from chicken and a variety of colorful vegetables, it’s packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Broccoli and carrots not only add vibrant colors but are also rich in antioxidants, supporting overall health and well-being.
Using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream or heavy cream is a game changer. It provides a creamy texture while being lower in calories and higher in protein. This makes the casserole more filling and satisfying, helping to keep you energized throughout the day.
Perfect for Family Gatherings
This Healthy Creamy Chicken Casserole is ideal for family gatherings and potlucks. Its comforting flavors and hearty texture make it a crowd-pleaser, ensuring that everyone at the table leaves satisfied. Plus, it’s an excellent way to introduce healthier options without sacrificing taste.
Whether it’s a holiday dinner or a casual get-together, this casserole can easily be doubled or tripled to accommodate larger groups. Just remember to adjust your baking time accordingly, and you’ll have a delicious meal that brings everyone together.
Storage and Reheating Tips
For those busy weeknights or when you simply want to prepare meals in advance, storing this casserole is straightforward. Make sure it cools completely before covering and refrigerating it in an airtight container. It can last up to three days in the fridge, maintaining its flavors and textures.
When reheating, a quick pop in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes will revive its creamy goodness. If you find it a bit dry, adding a splash of chicken broth can help bring back the moisture. This way, you can enjoy a delicious meal that tastes freshly made even days later!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables work great in this casserole. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding.
→ How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt alternative and use dairy-free cheese.
→ Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking.
→ What can I serve with this casserole?
A light salad or steamed vegetables would pair nicely with this healthy casserole.
Healthy Creamy Chicken Casserole Recipe
Enjoy a delicious and nutritious twist on a classic dish with this Healthy Creamy Chicken Casserole Recipe. Packed with flavor and wholesome ingredients, it's perfect for family dinners.
Created by: Delilah Spencer
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup whole wheat pasta
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 cup shredded low-fat cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large pot, cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add broccoli and carrots, sautéing until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, sautéed vegetables, cooked pasta, and sauce. Mix well.
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with shredded cheese and bake for 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your healthy creamy chicken casserole!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 37g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 30g