Easy Baked Chicken And Rice Casserole

Life has become fast-paced, and finding time to cook a tasty, healthy, homemade meal can be challenging. One-pan meals are the solution for the busy cook —they’re simple, convenient, and perfect for busy schedules. This one-pan baked chicken and rice casserole is the perfect example. It’s easy to make but comes out incredibly delicious. When I made it, my husband was shocked at how good it tasted! This recipe will become a favorite in your kitchen, giving you a quick and satisfying dinner option any night of the week.

Making the baked chicken and rice casserole recipe

You only need a handful of ingredients. I’m all for simplicity and easy meal ideas, so needless to say – I enjoyed this meal.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil: This brings a rich flavor to the dish and helps to brown the chicken.

Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless for convenience. They become tender and juicy when baked with the rice.

Red/Yellow Onion: Adds a sweet and savory flavor to the dish, balancing out the richness of the chicken and rice.

Brown Rice: Provides a nutty flavor and chewy texture. (Note: White rice works just as well!)

Chicken Broth or Chicken Stock:  Adds depth of flavor and moisture to the dish, enhancing the overall taste. 

Sea Salt and Black Pepper: Season to taste for added flavor.

Before starting, grab a good casserole dish with an oven-proof lid!

DOWAN Baking Dish With Lid, Ceramic Casseroles dish with lids, Lasagna Pan Deep, 1.6 Quarts Rectangular Bakeware With Handle Oven Safe for Cooking, Dinner, Home Gift, 8 x 8 Inches, GreenMALACASA Small Casserole Dish for Oven, 14 OZ Ceramic Mini Cocotte Set with Lid and Handle, White Ramekins Cocotte for Lasagna, Soufflé, and Soup, Microwave & Dishwasher Safe, Series BAKE.BAKE

After removing the casserole from the oven, let it cool off for 5 minutes. Gently fluff the rice with a fork to mix it thoroughly with the juices. Feel free to garnish for a burst of flavor and visual appeal. The last time we ate this meal, we ate it as it is, but you can serve it with green steamed veggies for a healthy and colorful touch. A crisp green salad would pair well with the dish for the spring or summer months. 

Storing leftovers of the chicken and rice casserole 

The dish freezes very well. Transfer your cooled down leftover to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 days. I hope you will find this chicken and rice casserole as delicious and time-saving as we did. Yes, it will take about an hour to be ready, but that is an hour you can spend relaxing or doing something else.. 

 Happy cooking!

Easy Baked Chicken And Rice Casserole

Easy Peach Cobbler With Canned Peaches - 70 calories per serving

I'm all about getting creative with fruit, whether finding new ways to enjoy it or incorporating it into recipes. I've got a sweet tooth, but I also try to be mindful of my calorie intake. Recently, I tried out this excellent, easy peach cobbler with canned peaches, and I just had to share it with you. Peach cobbler has always been a favorite of mine because it's just so comforting and delicious.

While I used canned peaches this time, you can easily swap them out for fresh peaches during the summer. This adaptability makes the recipe perfect for any season, and you can adjust it to fit your health goals without sacrificing any of the fantastic flavors.

Try this low-calorie peach cobbler recipe if you're looking for a lower-calorie dessert option. You can enjoy it guilt-free!

Upside to this easy peach cobbler with canned peaches

This peach cobbler version is much lower in calories than the traditional dessert, yet it is still good in flavor. The recipe uses the natural sweetness of the peaches and sugar substitutes. It is high in fiber, which makes it satiating.

Its simplicity is also why I'll make more of this dessert. Even cleaning up after is minimal.

As someone with "meat-free" moments, I realized I could adapt this peach cobbler to be plant-based and still enjoy it.

It is also perfect for large gatherings like potlucks and family dinners.

My favorite upside is that, as it is, this easy peach cobbler recipe is also suitable for my breakfast!

Ingredients for the peach cobbler recipe

Self-rising flour: If you have only all-purpose flour, remember to add one teaspoon of baking powder for each cup of flour. I always stock self-rising flour because it is convenient.

Almond or skim milk: I use almond milk because it is extra low in calories and reduces my dairy intake in general. If you have no limitations, use fat-free/skim or low-fat milk.

Granulated Sugar Replacement: Sugar replacements help you maintain the sweetness in your dessert without the downsides of sugar. Find an option that works for you.

Peaches in Their Juice: while fresh peaches are the best, they are not in season all year round (hence the tinned peaches). Peaches tinned in their juice won't have the added sugar you'll get if tinned in syrup, but you can still make the latter work by draining them.

Ground ginger adds a warm and spicy kick to the peach cobbler. If you prefer, you can substitute ground ginger with cinnamon.

Egg: The egg adds structure and richness to the peach cobbler, but you can substitute it with a flaxseed or chia seed egg substitute if you want a vegan version.

Cooking spray: will prevent sticking without the unnecessary calories from oil.

What to pair with this easy peach cobbler? 

Calories and weight loss goals considered - you can still enjoy this peach cobbler with a variety of stuff. 

• Yogurt: Low-fat yogurt keeps the calories in check while adding creaminess and extra protein to your dessert. 
• Sugar-free whipped cream 
• Fresh berries Mint leaves 
• Light Vanilla Ice Cream or 
• Frozen Yogurt

Customize the peach cobbler to suit your needs

• Use gluten-free flour to make a gluten-free version of this easy peach cobbler with peaches. 
• You can also replace the egg with a vegan egg substitute and use plant-based milk for a vegan option.
• You can use apples, pears, or berries instead of peaches.
• Adjust the amount of ground ginger based on the fruit's flavor.
• Sprinkle some chopped almonds or walnuts before baking for a nutty topping.
• Adding nuts gives a crunchy texture and healthy fats, although it increases the calorie count.
• For a unique flavor, try using a mix of spices like nutmeg, allspice, or cardamom. Ginger goes well with many warm spices, so feel free to experiment!

Why This Peach Cobbler Recipe Works for Different Diets

This dessert recipe is perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy a delicious treat without worrying about consuming too many calories. It's also great for anyone managing their blood sugar levels because it uses sugar replacements, making it diabetic-friendly. And if you're following Weight Watchers, you'll be pleased to know that it's low in points as it's made with almond milk and sugar replacements. On top of that, it's suitable for vegetarians and can easily be adapted for vegans. And for those with gluten sensitivities, it can also be made gluten-free by using gluten-free flour.

Can I make this cobbler gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the self-rising flour with a gluten-free self-rising flour blend. The texture may be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.

What sugar replacement is best to use?

Stevia, Splenda, or Monk Fruit sweeteners are all popular choices. Just double-check that the sugar replacement you choose measures cup-for-cup like regular sugar. Happy baking!

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover cobbler in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, warm it up in the microwave or oven until it's heated.

You can also freeze it! Once the cobbler is thoroughly cooled, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.

Can I use a different fruit in this recipe?

You can substitute the peaches with apples, pears, berries, or a mix of fruits. Adjust the amount of ginger depending on your fruit's sweetness and flavor profile.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

To make this cobbler vegan, substitute the egg with a flaxseed or chia seed egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons of water). Use almond milk or any other plant-based milk.

How many Weight Watchers points are in this recipe?

This low-calorie peach cobbler is approximately 2 Weight Watchers points per serving (based on dividing the cobbler into 9 servings). The points may vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands you use.

What can I serve with the peach cobbler?

Serve this cobbler with low-fat Greek yogurt, sugar-free whipped cream, fresh berries, or a small scoop of light vanilla ice cream or frozen yogurt. These options add flavor without many additional calories.

Can I prepare this cobbler in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the cobbler batter and store it in the fridge for a few hours before baking. However, for the best texture, bake the cobbler fresh. If you need to prepare it in advance, bake it and then reheat it in the oven when ready to serve.

How can I enhance the flavor of the cobbler?

You can increase the amount of ginger or add spices like nutmeg, allspice, or cardamom for a more robust flavor. You can also add a splash of vanilla extract to the batter for extra depth.

Can I use other types of milk instead of almond milk?

You can use any milk you prefer, such as fat-free dairy, soy, or oat milk. Just be aware that the calorie count may vary depending on the type of milk you choose.

Easy Peach Cobbler With Canned Peaches - 70 calories per serving

Delicious and Healthy Beef Stew Recipe - Instant Pot #under300calories

Before I started my weight loss journey, I was afraid that I wouldn't be able to enjoy my favorite comfort foods. However, I was pleasantly surprised when I came across this healthy beef stew recipe. It has become one of my go-to comfort foods! Each serving is under 300 calories, and when I serve it with rice, it becomes a complete and satisfying meal. Now, I don't have to feel deprived during the cold winters; with some prep, I can still enjoy cozy nights with delicious food. This recipe uses lean beef, which is nutritious and provides high-quality protein.

Making the stew in an instant pot is unnecessary but convenient and time-saving. Because of the pressure cooking method, the meat cooks in its juices, retaining more nutrients and taste than other cooking methods.

What did I use for this healthy beef stew recipe?

• Lean beef stew meat cubed - is the basis of the recipe, providing the essential protein and iron for the dish. Opting for a lean cut ensures a purer protein source than a non-lean, fatty variety.
• Vegetables—I used onions and carrots to add some sweetness (carrots) and depth (onions) to the stew. These will also count towards your vegetable servings. Feel free to add more to accommodate your needs.
• Vegetable-based instant soup powder adds a brothy flavor to the stew and may help thicken it.
• Chopped tomatoes, tinned—I sometimes use finely chopped tomatoes. The tomato adds acidity and richness to the dish.
• Sugar/sweetener—I always sprinkle sugar or sweetener whenever I cook with tomatoes. Once cooked, the sweetness dulls, and the sweetener helps retain it. The sugar or sweetener balances the tomato's acidity.
• Spices and seasons—i.e., cumin, paprika, mixed herbs, and salt to taste. Cumin adds warmth and earthiness to this healthy beef stew. The aroma of cumin alone is comforting to the senses. Paprika gives the stew a smoky flavor and a visual appeal.

How to make this healthy beef stew?

Serving suggestions for the beef stew 

To enjoy a hearty and satisfying meal, pair this Instant Pot beef stew with some crusty bread to soak up the rich, flavorful broth. If you're looking for something more substantial, mashed potatoes or steamed rice are excellent choices, allowing the robust flavors of the stew to take center stage. A fresh green salad with a simple vinaigrette accompanies a refreshing contrast to the savory stew for a lighter option.

Remember to garnish each serving with fresh parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and an extra layer of flavor, and consider topping it off with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for a touch of creamy richness.

Best results for your low-calorie beef stew

Start with a lean cut of beef, like chuck or round, and trim any visible fat for a hearty but not overly greasy stew.

When sautéing, brown the beef nicely for that extra depth of flavor. Add in some veggies like potatoes or peas for a varied texture, or switch in some celery for an extra pop of flavor.

Don't be afraid to adjust the spices to suit your taste – more cumin, paprika, and herbs if you like a robust flavor.

Lastly, be patient during the pressure release to maintain the stew's rich, tender consistency. These little tips will make your beef stew even more delicious and satisfying!

Proper storage for beef stew

Transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate. The stew will stay fresh for 3-4 days, making it a great option for meal prep. 

If you plan to keep it longer, freezing is a good alternative; simply portion the stew into freezer-safe containers and store it for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. 

Alternatively, you can reheat the stew on the stove over medium heat until warm. This reheating method helps preserve the stew's rich flavors and hearty texture.

What are the healthiest vegetables for stew?

Mushrooms are low in calories but full of B vitamins and selenium, which boost the immune system.

Tomatoes add a zing to the stew and are packed with vitamin C and lycopene, which are great for heart health.

Leafy greens like kale or spinach are nutritional powerhouses with vitamins A, C, and K, iron, and calcium. They're best added towards the end of cooking to retain their nutrients.

Sweet potatoes contain fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants. Plus, they bring a natural sweetness and creamy texture to the stew.

Zucchini is a light, absorbent veggie that picks up all the stew flavors and is a good source of vitamins A and C.

Peas add a touch of sweetness, some plant-based protein, and a lovely pop of color.

Mixing these veggies will make your stew super tasty and healthy with all those essential nutrients!

Why you will love the stew

It's the perfect combination of hearty, comforting, and nutritious. The lean beef adds richness without being too heavy, and the mix of fresh veggies and aromatic spices creates a robust and balanced flavor.

Using the Instant Pot means you get that slow-cooked taste in hardly any time, making it great for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. 

You can serve it with your favorite sides; the leftovers taste better the next day. Whether serving a family or meal prepping for the week, this stew will become a favorite in your recipe collection.

I hope you will enjoy this low-calorie beef stew. Eating healthy should not deprive you of enjoying food; almost any dish can be made to fit your goals. Please pin and share, and spread the word!

Delicious and Healthy Beef Stew Recipe - Instant Pot #under300calories