Chilly Breeze Low Carb (Printable)
Tender chicken and fresh vegetables in a creamy, cheesy low-carb bake ideal for cool nights.
# List of ingredients:
→ Proteins
01 - 2 large cooked and shredded chicken breasts (about 14 oz)
→ Vegetables
02 - 1 medium broccoli head, cut into florets
03 - 1 medium zucchini, diced
04 - 1 small red bell pepper, diced
05 - 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
06 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
→ Dairy
07 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (about 4.2 oz)
08 - 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (about 2.1 oz)
09 - 1/2 cup heavy cream (120 ml)
10 - 1/4 cup softened cream cheese (2 oz)
→ Pantry
11 - 2 tbsp olive oil
12 - 1 tsp dried thyme
13 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
14 - 1/2 tsp salt
15 - 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
# Steps:
01 - Set the oven to 350°F (180°C) to preheat.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant.
03 - Incorporate broccoli florets, diced zucchini, and diced red bell pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until slightly tender.
04 - Add shredded chicken, dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir well and remove from heat.
05 - In a medium bowl, whisk heavy cream and softened cream cheese until smooth. Stir in half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until combined.
06 - Pour the creamy cheese mixture into the skillet with chicken and vegetables. Stir thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly.
07 - Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x9 inch (23x23 cm) casserole dish.
08 - Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
09 - Place the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown on top.
10 - Allow to rest for 5 minutes to set before serving.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- This casserole feels like a warm hug that’s also surprisingly guilt-free, a secret between friends who love comfort and health.
- The creamy cheesy sauce blends with fresh vegetables in a way that turned this into an instant favorite on my chilly night menu.
02 -
- Softening the cream cheese before whisking with heavy cream is essential for a smooth sauce—skip this and it can get lumpy fast.
- Oven temps vary, so start checking your casserole at 25 minutes; that golden brown top is your sign it’s ready.
03 -
- Use freshly shredded cheeses instead of pre-shredded for better melting and less additives.
- The combination of smoked paprika and thyme is subtle but elevates the dish beyond ordinary comfort food.