Low-Fat Cheesy Chicken Casserole
A creamy, cheesy chicken casserole with vegetables and brown rice, perfect for a comforting, healthy family meal with rich flavors and a smooth, satisfying texture.
Ingredients
- 8 oz. light cream cheese ⓘ
- 1 1/2 c. skim milk ⓘ
- 10 3/4 oz. can low-fat condensed cream of chicken soup ⓘ
- 16 oz. frozen mixed vegetables ⓘ
- 2 c. cooked chicken, cubed ⓘ
- 1 c. quick cooking brown rice ⓘ
- 1/3 c. grated Parmesan cheese ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. pepper ⓘ
- 1/8 tsp. garlic powder ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. toasted wheat germ ⓘ
Instructions
- Spray a 2-quart round casserole with nonstick coating.
- Place the cream cheese in the casserole.
- Stir in the skim milk until well blended.
- Add the condensed cream of chicken soup and stir until smooth.
- Mix in the thawed mixed vegetables, cooked chicken, uncooked brown rice, half the Parmesan cheese, pepper, and garlic powder.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using Greek yogurt as a substitute for cream cheese. If you want to boost the flavor, add a dash of hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce. You can also swap the frozen mixed vegetables for fresh ones from your garden or local market. If you're short on time, using rotisserie chicken can speed up the cooking process.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a side of Garlic Basil Green Beans for a colorful and nutritious meal. A light salad or a serving of crunchy fruit salad chicken can also complement the dish well. For a heartier meal, pair it with warm, crusty bread or biscuits to soak up the cheesy goodness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, or bake in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Make sure it’s thoroughly warmed before serving again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Low-Fat Cheesy Chicken Casserole contains roughly 605 calories, with 30g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (78% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (61% of the Daily Value), and protein (60% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 591mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of cheese in this casserole?
Yes, you can substitute the Parmesan cheese with mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may alter the texture and richness of the dish, so adjust the quantity accordingly.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, remove the cover and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.
Is this casserole suitable for freezing?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen before baking. Assemble it in a freezer-safe container, then cover it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as usual for a comforting meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).