Low-Fat Potato Chicken Casserole
A hearty low-fat casserole combining tender chicken, potatoes, and vegetables with savory cheese and herbs, perfect for a comforting and health-conscious family meal.
Ingredients
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes ⓘ
- 3 or 4 stalks celery, chopped ⓘ
- 3 Tbsp chicken broth granules ⓘ
- 1 medium onion, minced ⓘ
- 3 boned, skinless chicken breasts, cut into large pieces
- 1 small bottle pimento ⓘ
- 1 tsp thyme ⓘ
- 4 slices American cheese or low-fat aged chopped cheese ⓘ
- salt and pepper to taste
- 2 Tbsp cornstarch ⓘ
- 1/2 cup skim milk
- 1/2 cup nonfat powdered milk ⓘ
Instructions
- Cook potatoes until two-thirds done, barely covering with water.
- Saute chicken in a nonstick frypan sprayed lightly with Pam until cooked through.
- Add onion and celery during the last stage of cooking the chicken.
- Combine cooked potatoes, chicken, onion, celery, spices, and cheese in a mixing bowl.
- Mix skim milk and cornstarch together and add to the mixture.
- Bring the mixture slowly to a boil, stirring constantly until thickened.
- Pour the mixture into a casserole dish and sprinkle with turmeric.
- Bake or serve immediately as preferred.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth instead of granules. You can substitute the American cheese with low-fat mozzarella for a different taste. If you prefer a creamier texture, add a dollop of Greek yogurt before serving. Make sure to cut your potatoes evenly for uniform cooking, and feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Consider serving it with crusty whole-grain bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a heartier option, a side of roasted asparagus or green beans complements the flavors well, making it a perfect dinner choice for family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave or oven until heated through. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil to prevent drying out. You can also freeze this casserole for longer storage, but the texture of the potatoes may change slightly upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Low-Fat Potato Chicken Casserole contains roughly 493 calories, with 12g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (47% of the Daily Value), protein (23% of the Daily Value), and potassium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2147mg per serving (93% 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 substitute American cheese with other varieties like cheddar or Swiss for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the melting properties might vary. Low-fat cheese options work well to keep the dish healthy while adding creamy texture.
Is it possible to prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time. Assemble all ingredients in the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to cook, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes and then bake as directed for best results.
How can I make this casserole spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes into the mixture. You can also serve it with a side of hot sauce for those who enjoy a kick. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance for the best flavor experience.
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).