In terms of comfort food, casseroles are always among the top choices because they are simple to prepare, incredibly tasty, and can be enjoyed the next day. One of my all-time favorite casseroles is Chicken and Broccoli, which is creamy with cheese. This recipe contains tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a cheesy cream sauce, making it both fulfilling and nutritious. Moreover, it’s suitable for those following a low-carb diet who are mindful of their carbohydrate intake.
My aunt first introduced me to this casserole during a family gathering. It was one of our holiday moments when my cousin, who is exceptionally skilled in cooking, prepared it for us during Christmas. The casserole was eaten so quickly that it was gone before we knew it! The mix of flavors and textures was so appealing that I had to ask for the recipe. It has since become my go-to dinner whenever I need something quick, tasty, and healthy—especially on those evenings when everything seems like it might just fall apart.
Ingredients
20 ounces fresh broccoli florets
8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
¼ cup mayonnaise
1 cup freshly grated cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
¼ teaspoon salt
2 cups cooked, chopped chicken
¼ cup grated Parmesan
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s at the required temperature for baking your casserole.
Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli
Steam the Broccoli:
Place the broccoli florets in a large microwaveable bowl.
Add 2 tablespoons of water, then cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap.
Microwave for 2 minutes, then leave covered for another 2 minutes to steam.
Carefully remove the wrap to drain any excess water.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
Mix the Ingredients:
In a small dish, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, grated cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
Mix Everything Together:
Add the steamed broccoli to a bowl with the cooked chicken.
Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the broccoli and chicken mixture.
Stir well to ensure that every part of the broccoli and chicken is fully coated with the sauce.
Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish
Prepare for Baking:
Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top for a delicious, crispy topping.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
Bake for 15 minutes, or until the casserole is hot throughout and the cheese on top has melted and turned slightly golden brown.
Variations and Substitutions
Different Vegetables:
Substitute or add other low-carb vegetables such as cauliflower, spinach, or zucchini. Be sure to steam them first before adding to the casserole.
Cheese Variations:
Experiment with different cheeses by adding mozzarella, Gouda, or Monterey Jack for varying flavors.
Protein Options:
Swap the chicken with turkey or shrimp as an alternative protein source. Ensure the protein is cooked before adding it to the casserole.
Herbs and Spices:
Add thyme, rosemary, or basil to enhance the flavor. If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Cream Alternatives:
For a lighter version, replace the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream to reduce the calorie content.
Conclusion
The Chicken and Broccoli Cheesy Casserole strikes a perfect balance between taste, nutritional value, and ease of preparation. The dish is fulfilling due to its creamy, cheesy nature while still being nutritious thanks to the chicken and broccoli. Additionally, the recipe is simple, making it an excellent option for those pressed for time on weeknights, as it requires minimal preparation.
One of the reasons this recipe is so appealing is its flexibility—you can adjust the ingredients to suit your tastes or dietary requirements. Whether you’re preparing dinner for your family, bringing a dish to a potluck, or simply cooking lunch for yourself, this casserole is sure to be a hit.
For all you know, this might become one of your go-to recipes, just as it has for me. It’s a fantastic option for those following a low-carb diet who still want to enjoy a hearty, delicious meal.
