Low-Fat Chicken And Pasta Casserole
A hearty, low-fat chicken and pasta casserole combining tender shredded chicken, sautéed mushrooms and onions, creamy sour cream, and melted cheese for a comforting, light meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute onions and mushrooms in 1 tablespoon margarine in a nonstick skillet for 5 minutes.
- Place chicken in a saucepan and cover with 3 1/2 cups water.
- Bring to a boil and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Let the chicken cool, then shred it.
- Save the chicken broth for later use.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of low-fat milk along with the sour cream. If you don’t have reduced-calorie margarine, you can substitute with olive oil for a healthier fat option. To enhance flavor, try adding garlic or Italian herbs while sautéing the onions and mushrooms. Use whole wheat linguine for added fiber.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole warm, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added freshness. It pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed broccoli or a crunchy salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Elegant Carrots, which add a vibrant color and flavor to your plate.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to keep the casserole moist. You can reheat it in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Low-Fat Chicken And Pasta Casserole contains roughly 1219 calories, with 38g protein, 196g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (131% of the Daily Value), iron (102% of the Daily Value), and protein (76% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2246mg per serving (98% 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 another type of pasta for this casserole?
Yes, you can substitute linguine with any pasta of your choice, such as penne or rotini. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type to ensure it's al dente. Whole grain or gluten-free options are also great alternatives.
How can I make this casserole vegetarian?
To make this casserole vegetarian, simply replace the chicken with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit the chicken altogether for a delicious meat-free option.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with foil. When ready to bake, simply remove the foil and follow the baking instructions, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it's heated through.
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).