Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe

When you’re in the mood for a hearty, comforting meal but want to keep things low carb, this Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe is the answer. Packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, this dish satisfies cravings without the carbs. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or serving to family and friends. I can’t wait for you to try it!

This casserole is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up. It brings together simple ingredients that you probably already have on hand. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This casserole comes together in just 40 minutes! It’s a set-it-and-forget-it kind of meal that allows you more time to relax.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves cheesy casseroles! This recipe is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready for dinner. Perfect for those busy evenings!
• Delicious Flavor: The creamy cheese sauce combined with fresh chicken and veggies makes every bite a comforting delight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that create a deliciously satisfying dish. Here’s what to gather:

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works well)
• 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
• 1 cup cauliflower rice (optional, for added volume)
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup sour cream
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative based on your preferences or what you have in your pantry.

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or even cooked shrimp instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Make it spicy: Add some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat!
• Use different cheeses: Experiment with your favorite cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for a unique taste.

How to Make Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Greasing a baking dish ensures that your casserole won’t stick and helps achieve that lovely golden-brown crust on top.

Step 2: Prepare the Base

In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, and cauliflower rice if you’re using it. This mixture forms the heart of your casserole and adds great texture and nutrition.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, whisk together heavy cream, sour cream, and softened cream cheese until smooth. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Removing it from heat before adding the cheddar cheese ensures that it melts beautifully without becoming too thick.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the delicious cheese sauce over the chicken and vegetable mixture in your bowl. Toss everything gently but thoroughly so that every piece is coated evenly before transferring it all into the greased baking dish.

Step 5: Add Cheese Topping

Sprinkle mozzarella cheese along with the remaining cheddar cheese and optional Parmesan evenly over the top. This creates a bubbly cheesy layer that everyone will love!

Step 6: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. You want it bubbling with that beautiful golden-brown top; this signals that it’s ready to enjoy!

Step 7: Serve

Once it’s out of the oven, let it rest for about five minutes before serving. This little pause makes sure everything settles nicely so each portion holds together beautifully.

Enjoy making this Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe! It’s bound to become one of your favorites too!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe

Creating the perfect casserole can be a breeze with a few handy tips up your sleeve!

• Use Leftover Chicken: Utilizing leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken not only saves time but also infuses the dish with great flavor and moisture.
• Steam Vegetables First: Pre-steaming your broccoli ensures that it retains its vibrant color and texture when baked, making every bite perfectly tender.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Mixing different cheeses like pepper jack or gouda can add unique flavors and a delightful creaminess to the casserole.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to incorporate other low-carb veggies such as bell peppers or spinach to boost nutritional value and add more color to your dish.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes after baking lets the flavors meld together beautifully and makes serving easier.

How to Serve Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe

Presenting this delicious casserole is just as enjoyable as making it! Here are some ideas to elevate your meal.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkling fresh parsley or chives on top adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Sliced Avocado: Adding a few slices of creamy avocado on the side provides healthy fats and complements the casserole’s flavors perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich casserole.
• Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Roasting asparagus with garlic enhances its natural flavors and pairs beautifully with chicken. Just toss in olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper before roasting until tender.
• Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles are a fantastic low-carb option that can soak up any extra sauce from your casserole.
• Cauliflower Mash: Creamy cauliflower mash is an excellent alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, providing comfort without the carbs.

Enjoy serving this Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe at your next family gathering or cozy weeknight dinner!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe is fantastic for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the casserole cool completely.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
• Alternatively, microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes or until warm.

FAQs

If you have questions about this recipe, you’re in the right place!

Can I make this Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe vegetarian?

Yes! You can substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini, along with additional plant-based protein sources like chickpeas or lentils.

How can I make this Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, use plant-based cream cheese and almond milk instead of heavy cream. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor without using dairy products.

What can I serve with this casserole?

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete low-carb meal.

How long does it take to prepare this Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe?

The total time for preparing this dish is just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you find joy in making this Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe! It’s a comforting dish that brings together flavors and textures everyone will love while keeping things light on carbs. Whether you’re serving it up on a family dinner night or prepping meals for the week ahead, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy every bite and happy cooking!