Low Carb Chicken Casserole – Creamy, Cheesy, and Comforting
When you’re craving comfort food but want to keep things light and low in carbs, this Low Carb Chicken Casserole is the perfect solution. It’s rich, creamy, full of savory flavor, and topped with a golden cheesy crust — everything you love about a hearty casserole, minus the extra carbs.
Packed with tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a luscious cream sauce made from scratch, this dish proves that low-carb meals can be both indulgent and satisfying. It’s the kind of easy weeknight dinner that brings everyone to the table — even those who aren’t following a low-carb diet.
Whether you’re eating keto, cutting back on carbs, or just looking for a cozy, wholesome meal, this casserole hits all the right notes: creamy, cheesy, and incredibly delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Low Carb Chicken Casserole
1. Perfect for meal prep
It reheats beautifully and keeps well, making it a great make-ahead dish for the week.
2. Comfort food without the carbs
Enjoy all the creamy, cheesy goodness of a traditional casserole — guilt-free.
3. High in protein and flavor
With juicy chicken and a savory sauce, it’s filling and satisfying.
4. Family-approved
Even picky eaters love this dish. It’s rich, cheesy, and comforting in every bite.
5. Customizable
Easily swap in your favorite low-carb vegetables or use leftover chicken.
6. One-dish meal
Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor — perfect for busy weeknights.
What You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to make this rich and flavorful casserole:
For the Casserole Base:
- 3 cups cooked shredded or diced chicken (rotisserie or leftover chicken works perfectly)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, lightly steamed)
- 1/2 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (or a mix)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a crispy topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a medium-sized baking dish (about 9×9 inches) with butter or nonstick spray.
If using fresh broccoli, steam it lightly for 2–3 minutes until just tender but still bright green. Drain well.
If using frozen broccoli, thaw completely and squeeze out excess moisture.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter or heat olive oil.
Add the diced onion and cook for about 2 minutes until translucent.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
This step adds depth of flavor to the casserole and makes a big difference in taste.
Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce
Reduce the heat to low.
Add cream cheese to the skillet and stir until it begins to soften and melt.
Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and chicken broth until smooth and creamy.
Add Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Continue stirring until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3–5 minutes.
It should coat the back of a spoon but still pour easily.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed — the sauce should be rich and flavorful before mixing it into the casserole.
Step 4: Combine Chicken, Broccoli, and Sauce
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken and steamed broccoli.
Pour the creamy sauce over top and mix gently until everything is evenly coated.
Transfer the mixture into your prepared casserole dish and spread it out evenly.
Step 5: Add the Cheese Topping
Sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella evenly across the top.
Add grated Parmesan for an extra savory touch.
For extra crunch, top with a light layer of crushed pork rinds or almond flour mixed with melted butter — completely optional but adds texture.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling
Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.
If you prefer a deeper golden crust, broil for the last 1–2 minutes — just keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and makes it easier to portion.
Serve warm as a main dish, with a light salad or cauliflower rice on the side.
Tips for Perfect Low Carb Chicken Casserole
- Use cooked chicken.
This recipe is designed for pre-cooked chicken — rotisserie or leftover chicken saves time and adds flavor. - Don’t overcook the broccoli.
Lightly steam it so it stays bright and slightly crisp in the casserole. - Adjust the sauce consistency.
If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of chicken broth. If too thin, simmer a bit longer before mixing in. - Add your favorite cheeses.
Try a mix of mozzarella for stretch and cheddar for sharpness. - Let it rest before serving.
This helps the sauce set and prevents it from being too runny. - Double the batch for meal prep.
It reheats beautifully for lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Flavor Variations
This casserole is endlessly adaptable. Once you master the base, you can mix and match flavors to keep it exciting.
Protein Variations
- Bacon Chicken Casserole: Add crispy bacon bits for smoky flavor.
- Buffalo Chicken Casserole: Stir 2 tablespoons of buffalo sauce into the cream sauce.
- Chicken and Spinach Bake: Replace broccoli with baby spinach for a softer, mild variation.
- Chicken Alfredo Casserole: Use Parmesan and mozzarella, and add a bit of nutmeg to the sauce.
Vegetable Add-Ins
- Cauliflower florets
- Zucchini slices
- Spinach or kale
- Mushrooms
- Bell peppers
Keep it low-carb by using non-starchy vegetables that complement the creamy sauce.
Cheese Options
- Sharp cheddar for richness
- Gruyère or Swiss for a nutty twist
- Pepper jack for a little heat
- Monterey Jack for smooth meltability
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is rich and hearty on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides. Try serving it with:
- Cauliflower rice – for a low-carb “rice and chicken” combo
- Zucchini noodles – for a creamy pasta-like experience
- Green salad – with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness
- Roasted asparagus or Brussels sprouts – for extra veggies
It’s also a great dish for potlucks or family dinners — everyone will want seconds, whether they eat low carb or not.
How to Store and Reheat
Refrigerator:
Let the casserole cool completely, then cover tightly or transfer to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes, or reheat the whole dish in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes until hot.
Freezer:
This casserole freezes very well.
Allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Freeze for up to 2 months.
To reheat from frozen:
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
Make-Ahead Option
You can assemble the entire casserole up to one day in advance.
Cover and refrigerate it unbaked, then pop it into the oven when ready to cook.
Add 5 extra minutes of bake time if starting from cold.
This is perfect for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests — you can do the prep ahead and enjoy the evening stress-free.
Troubleshooting
Casserole too watery:
Drain vegetables well, especially broccoli. Excess moisture can thin the sauce.
Sauce separated or grainy:
Make sure to melt the cream cheese gently and whisk continuously while adding liquids.
Not creamy enough:
Add a bit more cream or an extra ounce of cream cheese for richer texture.
Overly salty:
Use low-sodium chicken broth and taste the sauce before seasoning.
Cheese not melting well:
Shred your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded — it melts smoother without added starch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use raw chicken?
It’s best to use cooked chicken. If using raw, cut into cubes and sauté until cooked before adding to the casserole.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes. Substitute coconut cream for heavy cream, and use dairy-free cheese and cream cheese alternatives.
Is this casserole keto-friendly?
Absolutely. It’s naturally low in carbs and high in healthy fats and protein.
Can I add rice or pasta for others who aren’t low carb?
You can serve it over cooked rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes for non–low-carb eaters.
What can I use instead of broccoli?
Cauliflower, spinach, green beans, or zucchini all work well.
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 380
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 27g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
(Nutrition values vary based on ingredients used.)
Why This Recipe Works
This Low Carb Chicken Casserole combines the best of comfort and nutrition. The creamy sauce made from cream cheese, heavy cream, and broth creates a rich texture without relying on flour or starches.
By using naturally low-carb ingredients like chicken, broccoli, and cheese, you get a hearty meal that’s filling and satisfying but won’t spike blood sugar.
The baked cheese topping adds that irresistible golden crust, making every bite creamy underneath and crispy on top — the best of both worlds. Plus, it’s flexible enough to suit your preferences, whether you like it spicier, cheesier, or packed with extra veggies.
Tips for Customizing Your Casserole Routine
- Portion and freeze for grab-and-go lunches.
Keeps perfectly for busy days. - Turn leftovers into wraps.
Spoon the filling into low-carb tortillas for a quick lunch. - Add spice.
Sprinkle with crushed red pepper or drizzle with hot sauce for heat lovers. - Use individual ramekins.
Perfect for portion control or meal prep. - Make it a one-pan meal.
Cook the sauce and combine everything in an ovenproof skillet to bake directly — less cleanup.
Final Thoughts
This Low Carb Chicken Casserole is proof that healthy comfort food doesn’t have to be bland or complicated. It’s creamy, cheesy, and deeply satisfying — the kind of meal that feels indulgent while keeping you on track with your low-carb goals.
With simple ingredients, minimal prep, and big flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself making again and again. Whether for a cozy family dinner, weekly meal prep, or a quick reheatable lunch, this casserole is as reliable as it is delicious.
Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor — this Low Carb Chicken Casserole will quickly become one of your favorite go-to meals.
Homemade comfort, done the low-carb way.