Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole

This easy low carb chicken casserole came together on a hectic Tuesday when I needed something comforting without the carb crash. The creamy sauce and tender chicken bubbled in the oven, filling my kitchen with the savory scent of a meal that felt indulgent yet kept me right on track. It was one of those moments where the simple act of cooking felt like a quiet victory. A real dinner, on a real weeknight, that didn’t leave me feeling heavy or guilty. That’s the magic of a great low carb chicken casserole. It’s not about restriction; it’s about rediscovering comfort in a way that loves you back. This recipe is for anyone looking for healthy low carb dinners that don’t skimp on flavor or satisfaction. It’s a cozy, one-pan solution packed with protein and veggies, perfect for meal prep or feeding a hungry family. Simple ingredients, warm memories. Let’s make it.

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Ingredients List (Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole)

This easy low carb chicken casserole is built on a foundation of simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create something truly special. You’ll likely have most of these in your kitchen already.

• For the Chicken & Veggies:
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (A rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver here!)
  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
• For the Creamy Sauce:
  • 1 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option
  • 4 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
• For the Cheesy Topping:
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Optional: 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled, for garnish

Smart Swaps & Dietary Notes:

• Chicken: Use any cooked chicken you have—leftovers, grilled, or poached. For a different twist, try our Greek Sheet Pan Chicken Dinner and use the leftovers here.
• Vegetables: Swap broccoli for cauliflower florets, a bag of frozen mixed veggies (thawed and patted dry), or spinach. The goal is color, nutrients, and low carbs.
• Dairy-Free: Use full-fat coconut milk and a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. For the topping, a dairy-free mozzarella shred works well.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.

Timing (Your Quick Low Carb Dinner)

One of the best parts of this easy low carb chicken casserole is how little active time it requires. It’s perfect for those nights when you want a homemade meal without the long kitchen commitment.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Compared to many casseroles that require pre-cooking pasta or grains, this version is about 25% faster, getting you from fridge to table in well under an hour.

Step-by-Step Instructions (Building Your Casserole)

Follow these simple steps for a perfectly creamy, never-watery low carb chicken casserole every single time.

1. 
   

   Prep and Soften. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Toss in the broccoli florets and cook for 4-5 minutes, just until they brighten in color and begin to soften. This step is crucial for avoiding a soggy casserole! Transfer this veggie mix to a large mixing bowl.

   
   
2. 
   

   Create the Luxurious Sauce. In the same skillet (no need to wash it!), combine the heavy cream, softened cream cheese, and chicken broth. Whisk continuously over medium-low heat until the cream cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and unified. Stir in the dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly. You’ve just made the heart of this healthy food dish.

   
   
3. 
   

   Combine Everything. To the bowl with the veggies, add the shredded chicken and one cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Pour the warm, creamy sauce over everything. Gently fold until every piece of chicken and broccoli is lovingly coated in that rich sauce.

   
   
4. 
   

   Bake to Bubbly Perfection. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese and the Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly and the casserole is heated through. If you’re using bacon, sprinkle it over the top right after baking.

   
   
5. 
   

   Rest and Serve. Let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes after pulling it from the oven. This allows the sauce to set perfectly, making it easier to serve beautiful, clean portions. This patience is the secret to the best texture!

   
   

Nutritional Information (A Healthy High Protein Meal)

This easy low carb chicken casserole isn’t just delicious; it’s nourishing. Here’s a breakdown per serving (assuming 6 servings):

• Calories: ~420
• Protein: 28g (Excellent for muscle repair and keeping you full!)
• Net Carbohydrates: 8g (Perfect for keto recipes dinner plans)
• Fat: 32g (Mostly from satiating, quality sources like cream and cheese)

This dish is a powerhouse of healthy high protein meals, providing essential nutrients from the broccoli (Vitamin C, fiber) and chicken (lean protein). It’s a recette santé that truly delivers on both flavor and wellness goals.

Equipment Needed (Simple Kitchen Tools)

You don’t need any fancy gadgets for this low carb chicken casserole. Just a few trusty kitchen staples:

• A large skillet (for sautéing and making the sauce)
• A large mixing bowl
• A 9×13 inch baking dish
• A whisk and a spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

That’s it! Regular kitchen, regular time, great results.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole

This recipe has earned a permanent spot in my dinner rotation, and here’s why it will in yours too:

1. Ultimate Comfort Food, Made Easy. It’s cheesy, creamy, and deeply satisfying—everything you want in a cozy meal, without the heavy carbs.
2. A One-Pan Wonder for Busy Nights. Minimal dishes mean maximum peace after dinner. It’s as easy as my Sheet Pan Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies.
3. Meal Prep Champion. Make a batch on Sunday, and you have ready-to-go lunches or quick dinners for days. It reheats beautifully.
4. Incredibly Adaptable. Change up the veggies, the cheese, or the spices to create a whole new dish. It’s a master formula for recetas fitness and family meals alike.
5. Family-Friendly & Picky-Eater Approved. The creamy, cheesy flavor is a universal crowd-pleaser, making it one of those healthy food dishes everyone actually wants to eat.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

This easy low carb chicken casserole is already a health-conscious choice, but you can tweak it to fit almost any dietary need.

• For a Lighter Version: Substitute half the heavy cream with additional chicken broth and use a reduced-fat cream cheese. The casserole will be slightly less rich but still delicious.
• Dairy-Free & Keto: As mentioned, use full-fat coconut milk, dairy-free cream cheese, and a dairy-free cheese blend. It creates a wonderfully creamy sauce.
• Paleo-Friendly: Omit the dairy entirely. Use coconut milk, and thicken the sauce with a tablespoon of arrowroot powder mixed with cold broth before adding. Top with sliced almonds instead of cheese.
• Add More Veggies: Boost the fiber and nutrients by adding sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini with the broccoli. Just remember to sauté them well to remove excess moisture.

Serving Suggestions (Completing Your Meal)

This low carb chicken casserole is a hearty meal all on its own, but here’s how to round it out:

• For a Simple Side: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly.
• Low-Carb Bread Option: Serve with a side of keto-friendly garlic bread or almond flour biscuits for dipping.
• Soup & Casserole Combo: On a colder night, pair a smaller portion with a cup of my Slow Cooker Keto Chicken Cream Cheese Soup for the ultimate cozy, creamy chicken feast.
• Presentation Tip: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness right before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

A few simple tips will guarantee your easy low carb chicken casserole turns out perfect:

1. Skipping the Veggie Sauté. Adding raw broccoli directly to the bake will release too much water, creating a soupy casserole. A quick sauté is non-negotiable for the best texture.
2. Using Cold Cream Cheese. If your cream cheese is straight from the fridge, it won’t blend smoothly into the sauce and will leave little lumps. Let it soften on the counter or microwave it for 15 seconds.
3. Overcrowding the Baking Dish. If your dish is too small, the casserole will steam instead of bake, again leading to excess moisture. A 9×13 inch dish is ideal.
4. Skipping the Rest Time. Cutting in immediately will cause the saucy interior to run everywhere. Letting it rest allows everything to set up for neat, beautiful servings.
5. Underseasoning the Sauce. The sauce is the flavor carrier. Taste it before you mix it with everything else! Don’t be shy with salt, pepper, and your herbs.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

This easy low carb chicken casserole is arguably even better as leftovers, making it a superstar for health dinner recipes you can count on all week.

• Refrigerator: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: This casserole freezes exceptionally well. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish (hold the final cheese topping), wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, add the cheese topping, and bake as directed (you may need to add 5-10 minutes to the bake time).
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave until hot. For larger portions, reheat in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, for 15-20 minutes. For another great make-ahead, freezer-friendly chicken dish, check out my The Easiest Crockpot White Chicken Chili with Cream Cheese.

Conclusion

At its heart, this easy low carb chicken casserole is about more than just a recipe. It’s about giving yourself permission to enjoy deeply comforting food that also makes you feel good. It’s a testament to the fact that healthy low carb dinners can be the most satisfying ones on the table—rich, cheesy, and filled with the kind of warmth that turns a simple Tuesday into something special. Whether you stick to the classic version or try one of the fun twists, this low carb chicken casserole is a reliable, delicious path to a meal that feels like home.

I hope it becomes a trusted friend in your kitchen, just like my Roasted Veggie and Chicken Sausage Sheet Pan Dinner has in mine. Comfort food, made easy.

Now, I’d love to hear from you! Did your family devour it? What variations did you try? Let me know how your easy low carb chicken casserole turned out in the comments below, and don’t forget to tag @HarmonyMeal on Pinterest so I can see your beautiful creations.

FAQs about Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole

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