Low Carb Chicken Casserole

This low carb chicken casserole transformed busy weeknight dinners in my house with its creamy texture, satisfying flavor, and effortless prep. Packed with protein rich chicken, crisp broccoli, and a cheesy sauce, this quick, healthy meal is in the oven in just ten minutes, making it perfect for anyone craving comfort food without the carbs. With only thirty to forty five minutes of hands off baking time, it's the ultimate easy weeknight dinner that saves time and suits nearly any diet.

This easy chicken casserole became my go to recipe after a long workday when I needed something filling and flavorful without the hassle of a complicated meal. I love that leftovers heat up beautifully for lunch and the creamy, cheesy mixture holds the chicken and veggies together in every bite. The first time I made this with sharp cheddar and rotisserie chicken, my family instantly declared it a keeper, and it's been requested weekly ever since.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Cooked chicken breast (3 cups, shredded or chopped): Provides lean, high protein texture and soaks up flavor. Use rotisserie chicken for speed or poached chicken for a cleaner option; turkey breast also works well.
• Frozen broccoli florets (12 ounce bag, steamed and drained): Adds fiber and crunch for a balanced bite; swap with fresh broccoli cut into small pieces, or even cauliflower for a milder twist.
• Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts into a gooey, savory layer throughout; choose sharp cheddar for punchy flavor, with Swiss or Mexican blend as tasty alternatives.
• Cream cheese (1/2 cup, softened): Essential for creamy texture without the carbs; ensure it's soft for easy blending, or try vegan cream cheese for dairy free diets.
• Sour cream (1/2 cup): Adds tang and velvet smoothness to the sauce base. Greek yogurt works well as a lighter, higher protein substitute.
• Mayonnaise (1/4 cup): Brings extra richness and emulsifies the sauce; avocado or olive oil based mayo for cleaner or dairy free swaps.
• Garlic powder (1 teaspoon) and onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Layers in savory depth; fresh garlic and onion can also be used for even more aroma and nuance.
• Salt and black pepper: Fine tune seasoning with sea salt and freshly ground pepper for optimal taste; always season to your family’s preference.
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, 1/4 cup): Sprinkle on top for a golden, cheesy crust if desired, or skip for lower calories.

How to Make Low Carb Chicken Casserole

Preheat and Prep for Baking:

Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a nine by thirteen inch casserole dish with butter or a light olive oil to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving after baking.

Mix Creamy Cheese Base:

In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly with a sturdy spoon or whisk until smooth and fluffy. Blending well at this stage guarantees the sauce coats every bite evenly.

Fold in Chicken, Broccoli, and Cheddar:

Add the cooked chicken, steamed and drained broccoli florets, and shredded cheddar cheese to the bowl. Gently fold with a spatula until the sauce covers all ingredients, ensuring no broccoli water remains for best texture.

Spread in Dish and Top with Parmesan:

Transfer mixture into the prepared casserole dish and smooth into an even layer using the back of a spoon. Optionally, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top for a savory crust that browns as it bakes.

Bake Until Golden and Bubbly:

Bake uncovered in the center of the oven for twenty five to thirty minutes, or until the edges are bubbling and the top is golden brown. For extra crispy cheese, broil for an additional two to three minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.

Rest and Serve:

Remove casserole from the oven and let it rest five minutes before slicing. This short rest helps the casserole set and flavors meld, making serving cleaner and each bite richer.

The first time I used extra sharp cheddar in this casserole, the flavor became so rich that even my teens wanted seconds. I love how the creamy mixture brings everything together with hardly any carbs, making it a hit whenever I take it to family potlucks. With all that hearty protein and veggie fiber, I know exactly what is going into our healthy low carb dinner each time.

Smart Swaps and Variations

Low carb chicken casserole adapts easily to what you have on hand or your nutritional needs. Swap in turkey breast for a festive twist or use lightly steamed cauliflower instead of broccoli for a milder flavor. If you follow a dairy free diet, substitute vegan cream cheese, plant based shredded cheese, and avocado mayonnaise for the same creamy comfort but completely lactose free.

How to Store and Reheat Low Carb Chicken Casserole

Keep leftover low carb chicken casserole fresh by storing portions in airtight containers in the refrigerator for three to four days. For quick reheating, microwave individual servings on medium for one to two minutes, or reheat the entire casserole covered with foil in a 350 degree Fahrenheit oven until steaming hot. If making ahead, assemble the unbaked casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to twenty four hours before baking as usual.

What to Serve with Low Carb Chicken Casserole

Pair this casserole with vibrant, crunchy sides to build a balanced meal. A crisp green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the creamy filling nicely, and roasted asparagus or almond flour biscuits round out a complete low carb dinner. For family gatherings, present in a big baking dish or use individual ramekins for an elegant, portioned touch.

Nutritional Benefits

This casserole is naturally gluten free, high in protein, and moderate in fat, fitting neatly into most low carb or keto meal plans. Chicken breast offers lean muscle building benefits, and broccoli adds vitamins C and K with fiber to help keep you full. With about twenty five grams of protein per serving and far fewer carbs than classic casseroles, it's a health conscious comfort food any night of the week.

Recipe Success Tips

If you've ever had your low carb chicken casserole come out watery, make sure to thoroughly dry the broccoli before adding. For extra cheesy flavor, broil the top for two to three minutes after baking and always use softened cream cheese for a flawlessly smooth sauce. If the casserole feels dry before baking, stir in a splash of heavy cream to help achieve a perfectly luscious bite.

This low carb chicken casserole is my top pick for creamy, simple weeknight dinners that offer both satiety and great taste. Give it a try as written or with your own twist, and share your favorite additions to inspire fellow home cooks!

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ What type of chicken works best?

Shredded or chopped cooked chicken breast delivers tenderness and blends well with the casserole's creamy base.

→ Can fresh broccoli be used instead of frozen?

Yes, steam fresh broccoli florets until just tender, then drain before mixing into the dish.

→ How do you prevent a watery casserole?

Thoroughly drain steamed broccoli and excess moisture from chicken for a creamier texture.

→ Is it possible to substitute cheeses?

Cheddar is classic, but Monterey Jack or mozzarella also melt nicely and add variety to the flavor.

→ Can this be made ahead of time?

Assemble in advance, refrigerate covered, then bake when ready to serve for convenience.