Are you a home cook seeking a healthy and savory dish that’s perfect for any meal? Look no further! This Lemon Garlic Chicken Casserole is a hit among chicken lovers and healthy eaters alike. It's easy to make, bursting with flavor, and packed with nutritious ingredients. Let's get started!
Ingredients List
To make this delectable casserole, you’ll need:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 lemons (juice and zest)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup low-fat sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken, Then Shred It
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and dried thyme. Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until no longer pink in the center. Remove from the skillet, allow to cool slightly, then shred the chicken using two forks.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic and Veggies
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic, onions, and bell pepper for about 3-4 minutes until they soften. Add the broccoli florets and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, lemon zest, chicken broth, and low-fat sour cream. Pour the mixture into the skillet with the sautéed veggies and stir well to combine.
Step 5: Combine All the Ingredients in the Baking Dish
Add the shredded chicken to the baking dish. Pour the lemon garlic sauce with the veggies over the chicken, mixing everything evenly.
Step 6: Top with Cheese and Bake
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving and Storage
Serving Suggestions: Serve your Lemon Garlic Chicken Casserole hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or additional lemon zest. Pair it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave a portion for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
Health Benefits and Nutritional Information
This Lemon Garlic Chicken Casserole is not only delicious but also nutritious:
- Lean Protein: Chicken provides high-quality protein essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Broccoli and bell peppers are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, which support immune function and bone health.
- Healthy Fats: Olive oil is a source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
Approximate Nutritional Information per serving (serves 6):
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
Conclusion
There you have it—a simple yet flavorful Lemon Garlic chickenasserole that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. We hope you enjoy making and eating this dish as much as we do!
Have you tried this recipe? Share your experience and any tweaks you made in the comments below. And if you’re looking for more delicious and healthy recipes, don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter.
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