Welcome to the ultimate guide on making the Best Heart-Healthy Chicken Casserole Recipe right in your kitchen! This dish isn’t just another casserole; it’s a gateway to heart-healthy eating without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re aiming for a nutritious meal or just a comforting classic, you’ll find this casserole checks all the boxes. With its wholesome ingredients, like shredded chicken and brown rice, you’ll discover why making this classic dish at home is both easy and rewarding.
Why You’ll Love This Heart-Healthy Chicken Casserole
- Best way to make a Heart-Healthy Chicken Casserole at home: Simple, delicious, and wholesome!
- Perfect for meal prep: Make ahead of time and enjoy throughout the week.
- Only 1 hour to make: Quick preparation for a hearty dinner.
- Diet-friendly: Lower sodium and packed with vegetables.
- Customizable: Tailor it with your favorite spices or cheeses.
Ingredients for Heart-Healthy Chicken Casserole
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup brown rice, uncooked
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 can low-sodium cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup low-fat milk
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded low-fat cheese (optional)
Tip: For a gluten-free option, replace cream of chicken soup with a gluten-free version.
How to Make Heart-Healthy Chicken Casserole – Step by Step
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Gather all ingredients and prepare a 9×13-inch casserole dish by greasing it lightly.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, brown rice, broccoli, cream of chicken soup, milk, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared casserole dish.
- If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top for a gooey finish.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
- Cover the casserole with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 30 minutes in the preheated oven.
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the casserole bubbles.
Tip: For extra crispy cheese, bake uncovered for a few extra minutes under the broiler.
Best Heart-Healthy Chicken Casserole Recipe – Easy and Flavorful Pro Tips for Making the Best Heart-Healthy Chicken Casserole
- Can I make it ahead of time? Yes! Prepare the mixture ahead and refrigerate, baking it fresh when needed.
- What is the secret to the best Heart-Healthy Chicken Casserole? Balance spices and use fresh ingredients for peak flavor.
- Substitutions: Substitute turkey or tofu for chicken to vary the recipe.
Best Ways to Serve Heart-Healthy Chicken Casserole
- Complement with a side salad of mixed greens for a refreshing balance.
- Enjoy with a glass of chilled white wine for a sophisticated pairing.
- Serve at room temperature for picnic-style gatherings.
Explore our Grilled Vegetable Medley as a delicious side option.
Nutritional Information for Heart-Healthy Chicken Casserole
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Carbs: 45g
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 6g
Explore more low-carb casserole options if you’re looking to cut down on carbohydrates!
Storage & Leftovers
- How long does Heart-Healthy Chicken Casserole last in the fridge? Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing tips: Freeze portions in individual containers for up to 2 months.
- Reheating method: Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm, or microwave each portion.
FAQs for Heart-Healthy Chicken Casserole
- Can I freeze Heart-Healthy Chicken Casserole?
- Yes, freeze it in an airtight container for up to two months.
- What can I use instead of broccoli in the recipe?
- Substitute with spinach or kale for a different flavor and similar nutritional benefits.
- Is it possible to use quinoa instead of brown rice?
- Absolutely, quinoa offers a nutty flavor and increased protein content.
- Can I use a dairy-free milk alternative?
- Yes, almond or soy milk are great options to make the dish dairy-free.
Related Recipes for Heart-Healthy Chicken Casserole
- Yes, almond or soy milk are great options to make the dish dairy-free.
- Can I freeze Heart-Healthy Chicken Casserole?
Heart-Healthy Chicken Casserole
- Total Time: 60
- Yield: 6 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A nutritious Heart-Healthy Chicken Casserole that combines protein-rich chicken with wholesome brown rice and broccoli in a creamy sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup brown rice, uncooked
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 can low-sodium cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup low-fat milk
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded low-fat cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, brown rice, broccoli, cream of chicken soup, milk, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish.
- If desired, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the casserole is bubbling.
- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider including herbs like thyme or parsley.
- This casserole can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator before baking.
- Substitute chicken with turkey for a variation.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 45
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: chicken casserole, healthy recipes, heart-healthy, dinner ideas
