Low Fat Chicken Casserole
A flavorful low-fat chicken casserole combining tender chicken, hearty noodles, and cheesy goodness with a savory tomato sauce. Perfect for a comforting, healthier family dinner that balances rich flavors with lighter ingredients, making it suitable for those seeking a nutritious yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine cooked, boned, and skinned chicken breasts with the chunky spaghetti sauce.
- In a separate bowl, mix nonfat ricotta cheese, egg whites, and parmesan cheese.
- Spray a 9 x 13 inch pan with nonfat cooking spray.
- Spread half of the chicken and spaghetti sauce mixture in the pan.
- Top with half of the ricotta cheese mixture.
- Place half of the cooked noodles on top of this layer.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining chicken mixture, ricotta mixture, and noodles.
- Top the casserole with shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 40 minutes until heated through and cheese is bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider seasoning the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian herbs before combining it with the spaghetti sauce. If you need a gluten-free option, substitute the fine egg noodles with gluten-free pasta. You can also swap the part-skim mozzarella for a dairy-free cheese if desired. To save time, use rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation.
Serving Suggestions
This Low Fat Chicken Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve with garlic bread or a side of roasted potatoes. It's also great for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week. For more comforting casseroles, browse more American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. For best results, reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Low Fat Chicken Casserole contains roughly 442 calories, with 42g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (84% of the Daily Value) and calcium (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 854mg per serving (37% 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?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or even a blend of cheeses to suit your taste. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may change slightly with different cheese choices.
Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's cold from the fridge.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen before or after baking. To freeze, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, and store it in a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat in the oven, or bake from frozen, adding time as needed.
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).