Lower Calorie Chicken Casserole Recipe

Shredded cooked chicken breast: Provides lean protein and a hearty base for the casserole.

Low-fat greek yogurt: Adds creaminess and tanginess while keeping the dish lower in calories.

Shredded low-fat cheddar cheese: Offers a cheesy flavor without the extra fat and calories.

Thawed frozen mixed vegetables: Adds color, texture, and nutrients to the casserole.

Garlic powder: Enhances the flavor with a subtle garlic taste.

Onion powder: Adds a mild onion flavor without the need for fresh onions.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Black pepper: Adds a hint of spiciness and depth to the casserole.

When mixing the shredded chicken with the greek yogurt, cheddar cheese, and mixed vegetables, ensure that the ingredients are evenly distributed to achieve a consistent flavor throughout the casserole. Using a rubber spatula can help you scrape down the sides of the bowl and incorporate everything thoroughly.

• shredded cooked chicken breast - Substitute with shredded cooked turkey breast: Turkey breast is also lean and provides a similar texture and flavor profile.

• shredded cooked chicken breast - Substitute with tofu: Tofu is a plant-based protein that can mimic the texture of chicken when pressed and shredded.

• low-fat greek yogurt - Substitute with non-fat plain yogurt: Non-fat plain yogurt has fewer calories and still provides the creamy texture needed for the casserole.

• low-fat greek yogurt - Substitute with cottage cheese: Cottage cheese is lower in calories and can be blended to achieve a similar creamy consistency.

• shredded low-fat cheddar cheese - Substitute with reduced-fat mozzarella cheese: Reduced-fat mozzarella has fewer calories and melts well, providing a similar texture.

• shredded low-fat cheddar cheese - Substitute with nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast is a low-calorie, vegan option that adds a cheesy flavor without the fat.

• thawed frozen mixed vegetables - Substitute with fresh mixed vegetables: Fresh vegetables can be lower in sodium and provide a crisper texture.

• thawed frozen mixed vegetables - Substitute with canned mixed vegetables: If rinsed well, canned vegetables can be a convenient and lower-calorie option.

• garlic powder - Substitute with fresh minced garlic: Fresh garlic can provide a more robust flavor with fewer additives.

• onion powder - Substitute with fresh minced onion: Fresh onion can offer a stronger flavor and more nutrients.

• salt - Substitute with herb seasoning blend: An herb seasoning blend can reduce sodium intake while adding flavor complexity.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat and flavor profile with a slightly different taste, offering variety.

• Allow the chicken casserole to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the dish soggy.
• Transfer the cooled casserole into an airtight container. If you prefer, you can also use resealable plastic bags for individual portions.
• Label the container or bags with the date to keep track of freshness.
• Store the casserole in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This ensures that the chicken and vegetables remain safe to eat.
• For longer storage, place the airtight container or resealable bags in the freezer. The casserole can be frozen for up to 2-3 months without significant loss of flavor or texture.
• When ready to reheat, thaw the frozen casserole in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps maintain the quality of the dish.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for reheating. Transfer the thawed casserole to an oven-safe dish if it’s not already in one.
• Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the top from drying out. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
• For a quicker option, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place the portion on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a microwave-safe lid or wrap, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• If you notice any changes in color, texture, or smell, it’s best to discard the casserole to avoid any risk of foodborne illness.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover chicken casserole in an oven-safe dish.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from drying out.
  4. Heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through.
  5. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes if you want a crispy top.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Transfer a portion of the casserole to a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover the plate with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to retain moisture.
  3. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes.
  4. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating.
  5. Let it sit for a minute before serving to allow the heat to distribute evenly.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Place a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a small amount of olive oil or cooking spray to the skillet.
  3. Add the leftover chicken casserole to the skillet.
  4. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure even heating.
  5. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until the casserole is thoroughly warmed.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover casserole in an air fryer-safe dish or on a piece of aluminum foil.
  3. Heat for about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Check halfway through and stir if necessary to ensure even heating.
  5. Enjoy a slightly crispier texture on the top layer.

• Oven: Used to bake the casserole at a consistent temperature of 375°F (190°C).

• Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining all the ingredients together evenly.

• Baking dish: Used to hold the casserole mixture while it bakes in the oven.

• Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring the shredded chicken, greek yogurt, and cheddar cheese.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper precisely.

• Spatula or large spoon: Helpful for mixing the ingredients together in the large mixing bowl.

• Oven mitts: Important for safely handling the hot baking dish when removing it from the oven.

• Cooling rack: Allows the casserole to cool slightly before serving, ensuring it sets properly.

Use pre-cooked chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked chicken breast from the store or leftovers from a previous meal.

Frozen vegetables: Opt for thawed frozen mixed vegetables to skip the washing and chopping.

One-bowl mixing: Combine all ingredients in a single mixing bowl to reduce cleanup time.

Pre-shredded cheese: Use pre-shredded low-fat cheddar cheese to avoid grating it yourself.

Batch cooking: Double the recipe and freeze half for a quick meal later.