Description
This Low Carb Chicken Casserole is a quick and flavorful meal combining smoked turkey bacon, creamy plant-based cheese, and wholesome natural ingredients. Ready in under an hour, it offers a hearty and nourishing dish perfect for busy weeknight dinners while keeping carbs low and taste high.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Dairy
- 2 large chicken breasts, diced
- 4 slices smoked turkey bacon, chopped
- 1 cup plant-based cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded plant-based cheese
Vegetables
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1.5 cups cauliflower rice
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Others
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (natural)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Chop the smoked turkey bacon into bite-sized pieces, dice the onion, and mince the garlic. Cut the broccoli into small florets and shred the plant-based cheese if not pre-shredded. Ensure the cauliflower rice is finely grated or use store-bought.
- Cook the Turkey Bacon and Aromatics: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the turkey bacon until crisp and aromatic. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes, to build a rich flavor base.
- Add Chicken and Spices: Add the diced chicken breasts to the skillet, stirring until browned on all sides. Season with dried thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Pour in the vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural) and apple cider vinegar (natural) to deglaze the pan and combine all flavors.
- Incorporate Veggies and Cream Cheese: Reduce heat to low and fold in the broccoli florets, cauliflower rice, and dollops of plant-based cream cheese. Stir gently to coat all ingredients, allowing the cream cheese to melt and create a creamy sauce.
- Assemble and Bake: Transfer the mixture into a casserole dish, smoothing the top evenly. Sprinkle shredded plant-based cheese across the surface. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients to ensure even cooking and reduce bake time.
- Do not overcook the chicken; brown just enough to lock in juices before baking.
- Fresh broccoli provides better texture and taste but frozen can be used if needed.
- For extra golden color, broil the casserole for the last 2 minutes carefully.
- Allow the casserole to rest slightly before serving so it sets perfectly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: low carb chicken casserole, plant-based cheese casserole, smoked turkey bacon recipe, low carb dinner, gluten free casserole
