Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole with Broccoli and Bacon
Cooking can be a delightful adventure, and when it comes to easy, family-friendly meals, nothing hits the spot quite like a Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole with Broccoli and Bacon. This dish is not only comforting but also packed with flavors that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Why Make This Recipe
This casserole is a perfect solution for busy weeknights or when you’re looking for something satisfying without the carbs. Packed with nutritious broccoli, flavorful cooked chicken, and crispy bacon, it provides a hearty meal that doesn’t compromise on taste. With gooey melted cheese and a creamy ranch dressing base, this dish keeps your cravings in check while sticking to your low-carb dietary goals.
The bonus? It’s incredibly easy to whip up and requires minimal cleanup, making it ideal for those hectic days!
How to Make Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole with Broccoli and Bacon
Making this creamy and delicious casserole is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Let’s gather the ingredients and move on to the simple steps that will transform your kitchen into a comfort food haven.
Ingredients
- 5 cups broccoli florets
- 8 slices cooked turkey bacon, chopped
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella
- ½ cup shredded cheddar
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- ½ cup shredded cheddar (for topping)
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella (for topping)
Directions
-
Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures that your casserole won’t stick and is easy to serve.
-
Steam or blanch the broccoli florets until they are just tender. Drain them well to remove excess moisture. This helps maintain the perfect texture in the final bake.
-
In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, broccoli, chopped turkey bacon, minced garlic, mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, and ranch dressing. Stir until all ingredients are well-coated and evenly mixed.
-
Spread the chicken and broccoli mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
-
Top the casserole with the additional cheddar and mozzarella cheeses for that gooey, melted finish.
-
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until the dish is hot and bubbly. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
-
Allow the casserole to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This waiting period helps it set and makes serving easier.
Pro Tips for Success: Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole with Broccoli and Bacon
-
Use Leftover Chicken: If you have leftover rotisserie chicken, this is a great way to repurpose it and save time.
-
Add More Vegetables: Feel free to throw in additional veggies such as spinach, cauliflower, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
-
Check for Seasoning: Taste the mixture before baking. Depending on the ranch dressing or chicken you use, you may want to add a pinch of salt or pepper.
-
Foil for Less Browning: If the cheese starts to brown too quickly, cover the casserole with aluminum foil during baking.
-
Customize the Cheese: Try using different types of cheese, like pepper jack for some spice or provolone for a milder flavor.
Flavor Variations: Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole with Broccoli and Bacon
-
Add a Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the mixture for a bit of heat.
-
Italian Twist: Substitute ranch dressing with Italian dressing and add Italian seasoning for a distinct flavor profile.
-
Cheesy Broccoli: For a broccoli cheese casserole, double up on the cheese and use a blend of sharp cheddar and cream cheese for creaminess.
-
Herb Infusion: Toss fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the mixture for an herby aroma and taste.
Serving Suggestions for Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole with Broccoli and Bacon
This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or a side of roasted vegetables. For a more indulgent option, serve it with cauliflower mash, which complements the creamy texture of the casserole beautifully.
If you’re looking to transform leftovers into a lunch option, try serving it in lettuce wraps or as a filling for a low-carb tortilla.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole with Broccoli and Bacon
Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or in the oven until heated through.
Freezer: This casserole can be frozen before baking. To do this, assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil and freeze for up to three months. To bake from frozen, remove the wrapping and bake at 375°F for approximately 45-60 minutes or until heated through.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 700mg
FAQ About Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole with Broccoli and Bacon
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh broccoli works beautifully in this casserole. Just make sure to steam or blanch it first to ensure it cooks properly in the casserole.
What if I don’t have turkey bacon?
You can easily replace turkey bacon with regular bacon or even omit it entirely if you prefer a lighter dish. If you are looking to maintain the low-carb element, consider using a mushroom or eggplant for a substitute.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just cover it tightly to keep it fresh.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
This casserole is excellent for meal prep! You can portion it into containers after baking and enjoy it throughout the week. Just remember to label them with the date.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat your leftovers in the microwave for a quick option, or for a crispy top, pop it in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Final Thoughts
Creating a Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole with Broccoli and Bacon is an excellent decision if you’re looking for a dish that fills the belly and warms the heart. With its savory ingredients and simple preparation, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Plus, its versatility allows it to adapt to various tastes and preferences, making it a true crowd-pleaser. So gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy the comforting magic of this casserole!
Print
Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole with Broccoli and Bacon
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
A comforting, low-carb chicken casserole packed with broccoli, crispy bacon, and melted cheese, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 5 cups broccoli florets
- 8 slices cooked turkey bacon, chopped
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella
- ½ cup shredded cheddar
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- ½ cup shredded cheddar (for topping)
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Steam or blanch the broccoli florets until they are just tender. Drain well.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, broccoli, chopped turkey bacon, minced garlic, mozzarella, cheddar, and ranch dressing. Stir until well-coated.
- Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Top with additional cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until hot and bubbly, and cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Allow the casserole to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. Add more veggies or customize the cheese for different flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
