Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole: Creamy & Healthy Dinner

Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole – does that phrase immediately make your mouth water while also putting your mind at ease? It certainly does for me! As someone who cherishes both delicious food and a healthy lifestyle, I’ve spent years perfecting recipes that deliver on both fronts. This particular dish isn’t just another dinner idea; it’s a culinary hug that fits perfectly into your low-carb journey. Casseroles, historically, have been the ultimate symbol of comfort and practicality in American kitchens, evolving from simple, resourceful one-pot meals into beloved family traditions. They represent togetherness, warmth, and the joy of a shared meal without the fuss. My goal was to take that cherished concept and transform it into something truly special for the modern, health-conscious cook.

What makes this Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole so incredibly popular? It’s a harmonious blend of tender, succulent chicken, vibrant low-carb vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce, all crowned with a golden, bubbly layer of cheese. The beauty lies in its simplicity and the deep, satisfying flavors it offers without any guilt. Imagine sinking your fork into a dish where every bite is a burst of savory goodness, providing all the comfort of a classic casserole while keeping your carb count in check. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or even impressing guests with a wholesome, hearty, and effortlessly elegant meal. Get ready to redefine your comfort food experience!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• Cooked Chicken: 3-4 cups, shredded or diced. I usually roast a whole chicken or boil chicken breasts specifically for this, but leftover rotisserie chicken is an absolute lifesaver for this Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole. Make sure it’s cooled slightly so it’s easier to handle and shred.
• Cream Cheese: 8 oz (1 block), full-fat, softened at room temperature. This is key for that incredibly rich, creamy texture without adding unnecessary carbs, making our casserole wonderfully decadent.
• Heavy Cream: 1 cup. Adds even more luxuriousness and helps achieve the perfect consistency for our sauce, ensuring every bite is smooth and flavorful.
• Chicken Broth: 1/2 cup, low sodium. You can use vegetable broth if that’s what you have on hand, but chicken broth truly enhances the overall chicken flavor profile in the dish.
• Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 1.5 cups, divided. I highly recommend freshly shredding your own cheese; it melts much better and tastes superior to pre-shredded varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
• Shredded Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese: 1 cup, divided. For that lovely, classic cheesy pull and a milder flavor that complements the sharp cheddar beautifully.
• Fresh Broccoli Florets: 3-4 cups, chopped into small, bite-sized pieces. This adds wonderful texture, a vibrant pop of green, and a wealth of nutrients, perfectly contributing to the low-carb nature of this casserole.
• Fresh Cauliflower Florets: 2-3 cups, chopped into small, bite-sized pieces. Another fantastic low-carb vegetable that blends seamlessly into the creamy base, absorbing all the delicious flavors.
• Fresh Spinach: 5 oz (about 5 cups loosely packed), roughly chopped. It wilts down significantly, adding important vitamins, minerals, and a subtle earthy flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
• Yellow Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped. Adds a foundational layer of aromatic sweetness that is crucial for building a complex flavor profile.
• Garlic: 3-4 cloves, minced. Because, let’s be honest, can you ever really have too much garlic in a savory dish? It brings a wonderful pungent warmth to the casserole.
• Unsalted Butter or Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, for sautéing. I personally prefer butter for the rich, nutty flavor it imparts to the sautéed aromatics, but high-quality olive oil works perfectly well if you prefer.
• Kosher Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to taste. Always start with a baseline and adjust as needed.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste. Freshly ground makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Smoked Paprika: 1 teaspoon. This adds a beautiful, subtle reddish hue and a fantastic depth of smoky flavor that truly elevates the entire casserole experience.
• Garlic Powder: 1/2 teaspoon. Even though we’re using fresh garlic, a little powder enhances that garlicky punch, ensuring it’s present in every layer of the sauce.
• Onion Powder: 1/2 teaspoon. Similarly, this reinforces the onion flavor, providing a consistent aromatic background throughout the dish.
• Dried Italian Herbs (or a mix of dried oregano, basil, thyme): 1 teaspoon. A classic blend that complements the chicken and cheese wonderfully, lending a comforting, familiar aroma.
• Optional Garnish: Fresh parsley or chives, chopped, for serving. Adds a burst of freshness, vibrant color, and an extra layer of herbaceous aroma.

Preparing Your Ingredients for the Ultimate Low Carb Chicken Casserole

1. First things first, let’s get our oven preheating. Set it to a steady 375°F (190°C). While that’s warming up, take a moment to lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. I usually opt for a little non-stick cooking spray or a thin swipe of butter to ensure nothing sticks and that cleanup will be an absolute breeze later. This is a crucial initial step for the seamless preparation of your glorious Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole.
2. If your chicken isn’t already cooked and ready to go, now is the perfect time to prepare it. You can boil, bake, or pan-fry boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs until they are thoroughly cooked through. Once the chicken is cool enough to handle comfortably, shred or dice it into uniform, bite-sized pieces. Aim for approximately 3-4 cups of cooked chicken. If you’re leveraging the convenience of a store-bought rotisserie chicken, simply remove the skin and bones, then shred the succulent meat. Utilizing pre-cooked chicken is genuinely what makes this an “easy” casserole, saving you valuable time and effort!
3. Next up, let’s tackle the vegetables. Begin by thoroughly washing your fresh broccoli and cauliflower florets under cold running water. Once clean, chop them into small, manageable, bite-sized pieces. I find that smaller pieces not only cook more evenly but also integrate much better into the creamy sauce, ensuring every spoonful is packed with both flavor and a pleasant texture. For the fresh spinach, give it a good rinse to remove any grit, then roughly chop it. Don’t be alarmed if it looks like a towering mountain in your bowl; spinach wilts down dramatically.
4. Proceed to peel and finely chop your yellow onion. The finer the chop, the better the onion will melt into the sauce, leaving only its sweet, aromatic essence without large, noticeable chunks. Mince your garlic cloves. I personally love the efficiency of a garlic press for speed, but a sharp knife and a bit of patience work just as wonderfully to achieve finely minced garlic.
5. Finally, take a moment to measure out all your various cheeses and seasonings. Having everything prepped, measured, and neatly arranged in separate bowls is what we chefs refer to as “mise en place.” This practice makes the subsequent cooking process incredibly smoother, more organized, and significantly more enjoyable. Trust me on this one; you definitely don’t want to be scrambling for a seasoning bottle or a measuring spoon once you’ve started sautéing. This preparation ensures a stress-free assembly for your delicious Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole.

Crafting the Creamy, Flavorful Base for Your Casserole

6. Grab a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or a spacious Dutch oven, and place it over medium heat on your stovetop. Melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in the skillet. If you’re opting for olive oil, heat it until it’s shimmering gently.
7. Add the finely chopped onion to the heated skillet. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. We’re aiming for the onion to become soft and translucent, not browned. This gentle cooking process helps to unlock and mellow its inherent sweetness, providing a perfect aromatic base for our casserole.
8. Now, introduce the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for just another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This brief cooking time is all it needs to become wonderfully fragrant. It’s absolutely crucial to be careful not to burn the garlic at this stage, as burnt garlic can develop a bitter, unpleasant taste that will negatively impact the overall flavor profile of your otherwise delightful Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole. This is a quick yet vital step for building that essential aromatic foundation.
9. Stir in the fresh broccoli and cauliflower florets to the skillet. Continue to cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring periodically. This step is designed to slightly pre-cook the vegetables. By doing so, we ensure they become tender but still retain a pleasant bit of bite after the casserole is baked, preventing them from turning mushy. Lightly season the vegetables with a pinch of salt and pepper at this stage to build layers of flavor.
10. Add the roughly chopped fresh spinach to the skillet. Cook for a mere 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously until the spinach wilts down significantly. It might seem like an overwhelming amount of spinach at first, but it reduces dramatically in volume, integrating beautifully into the dish.
11. It’s now time to embark on building our glorious creamy sauce! Reduce the heat to low, and add the softened cream cheese to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir continuously, using your spoon or spatula to break up the cream cheese. Keep stirring until it’s mostly melted and begins to seamlessly incorporate with the sautéed vegetables.
12. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Whisk or stir vigorously to fully combine all the ingredients. Continue to stir until the cream cheese melts completely, transforming into a smooth, luscious sauce. Keep stirring gently for another 2-3 minutes as the sauce begins to gently simmer and thicken ever so slightly.
13. Stir in all of your pre-measured chosen seasonings: 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs. Mix everything thoroughly, ensuring that the spices are evenly distributed throughout every silky inch of the creamy sauce. Take a moment to taste the sauce at this point and adjust the seasonings if necessary. Remember, this rich sauce is going to coat every single ingredient, so you want it perfectly seasoned.
14. Remove the skillet from the heat. Now, with a gentle hand, fold in about 1 cup of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese directly into the warm creamy sauce. Stir just until the cheeses are melted and fully incorporated into the mixture. This step adds a fantastic, deep layer of cheesy flavor directly into your casserole’s base, making your Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole truly irresistible.

Assembling the Hearty Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole

15. Return your attention to the skillet containing the creamy vegetable and cheese sauce. Add the shredded or diced cooked chicken directly into this delectable mixture. Gently, yet thoroughly, fold all the ingredients together until every single piece of chicken is evenly coated in that rich, flavorful, low-carb creamy goodness. You want an even distribution of chicken, vegetables, and sauce.
16. Carefully spoon the entire magnificent mixture from the skillet into your prepared 9×13 inch baking dish. Use your spatula to spread it out evenly across the bottom, ensuring it forms a uniform layer that fills the dish from edge to edge. This creates a consistent base for baking and ensures an appealing presentation.
17. Now for the crowning glory – the rest of the cheese! Generously sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the entire top surface of the casserole mixture. This final top layer of cheese will melt down during baking, transforming into a golden, bubbly, and slightly crispy crust, adding an absolutely irresistible finish to your Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole. For an extra touch of flavor and a visually appealing golden color, you could even dust a tiny pinch of extra smoked paprika over the top of the cheese before baking.

Baking to Perfection and Serving Your Delicious Low Carb Creation

18. Carefully place the assembled baking dish into your preheated 375°F (190°C) oven. Ensure it’s centered to allow for even baking.
19. Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the casserole is wonderfully bubbly around the edges, and the cheese on top is beautifully melted, gloriously golden brown, and perhaps even slightly caramelized in spots. Keep a watchful eye on it, as oven temperatures can vary. If you notice the cheese beginning to brown a little too quickly for your liking, you can loosely tent the casserole with a piece of aluminum foil for the last few minutes of baking to prevent over-browning.
20. Once baked to absolute perfection, carefully remove the casserole from the oven. It’s incredibly important to allow your Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole to rest for about 5-10 minutes before you even think about serving it. This crucial resting period serves a vital purpose: it allows the hot, creamy sauce to set slightly, making the casserole much easier to serve cleanly and preventing it from being too runny. It also gives all those beautiful, melded flavors a moment to deepen and intensify even further.
21. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or chives, if desired. This simple addition provides a lovely fresh element, a burst of vibrant color, and an extra layer of herbaceous aroma, making your dish even more appealing to both the eyes and the palate.
22. Serve warm and prepare to savor every single comforting, low-carb bite!

Serving Suggestions for Your Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole:

This casserole is wonderfully hearty and incredibly satisfying all on its own, making it a complete meal. However, here are a few ideas to perfectly round out your low-carb dining experience:

• A simple, crisp side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The freshness and acidity of the salad will beautifully cut through the rich, creamy decadence of the casserole.
• Steamed green beans or tender asparagus spears, lightly seasoned with salt, pepper, and a touch of lemon zest for brightness.
• Some extra roasted low-carb vegetables like zucchini planks, quartered Brussels sprouts, or even some roasted radishes for a peppery kick.
• For those who appreciate a little extra texture and a satisfying crunch, a sprinkle of toasted crushed pork rinds over the top of your individual serving before digging in adds a fantastic textural contrast without adding any unwanted carbohydrates.

Tips and Variations to Customize Your Low Carb Chicken Casserole:

One of the truly wonderful aspects of this recipe is its incredible versatility. Feel absolutely free to experiment and make it your own!

• Spice it Up: For those who crave a bit of heat, consider adding a generous pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce along with the other seasonings. You could also swirl in a small amount of your favorite hot sauce.
• Different Cheeses: While cheddar and mozzarella are timeless classics for a reason, don’t hesitate to explore other cheese possibilities! Consider adding some Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, a touch of creamy Fontina, or even a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for different and equally delicious flavor profiles.
• More Veggies: Don’t feel limited to just broccoli, cauliflower, and spinach! Sautéed sliced mushrooms, diced bell peppers (any color for visual appeal and sweetness), or even some finely chopped zucchini or slender asparagus spears would make delicious additions. Just remember to slightly pre-cook any firmer vegetables to ensure they reach desired tenderness within the casserole.
• Fresh Herbs: Elevate the aroma and taste by incorporating fresh herbs. Finely chopped fresh thyme, rosemary, oregano, or a combination can be added to the sauce along with the dried herbs for a more vibrant, garden-fresh flavor.
• Make Ahead: This casserole is a fantastic candidate for meal preparation! You can fully assemble the entire casserole (up to step 17) a day in advance. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to take off the chill, and you might need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the total baking time. This makes it a perfect option for busy weeknights or entertaining.
• Freezing: Good news – this casserole freezes remarkably well! After baking, allow it to cool completely to room temperature. Then, wrap it tightly in a double layer of aluminum foil and an additional layer of plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat it in a preheated oven (covered with foil) at 350°F (175°C) until it’s heated through, then uncover for the last few minutes to crisp up that cheesy top layer.

I truly believe this Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole will become a cherished staple in your kitchen. It’s comforting, incredibly flavorful, and perfectly aligned with a low-carb lifestyle, proving unequivocally that healthy eating doesn’t mean sacrificing deliciousness!

Conclusion:

If you’ve followed along this far, I truly hope you’re feeling inspired and excited to get into your kitchen because what you’re about to create is more than just a meal; it’s a game-changer. This recipe is an absolute culinary triumph, a dish that effortlessly marries robust flavor with incredible health benefits, all while being remarkably simple to prepare. It’s designed for real life – busy weeknights, meal prepping for a healthier week ahead, or even impressing guests without breaking a sweat. Forget the notion that low-carb means sacrificing taste or feeling unsatisfied; this casserole shatters those myths into delicious, creamy pieces.

What makes this particular dish a must-try, in my humble opinion, is its unparalleled ability to deliver deep, comforting flavors that satisfy your cravings without any of the guilt. The tender chicken, enveloped in a rich, savory sauce, perfectly complemented by the subtle bite of the vegetables and the golden-brown, bubbly cheese, creates a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you feeling completely nourished and content. It’s hearty without being heavy, flavorful without being complicated, and truly versatile. I can confidently say that once you taste it, you’ll understand why it’s become such a beloved staple in my own rotation. This isn’t just any dish; it’s truly an Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole that will quickly become a cherished recipe in your home. It’s proof that you absolutely can eat well, eat healthily, and still enjoy every single bite.

To truly make this recipe your own, don’t hesitate to experiment with serving suggestions and delightful variations. For a complete and balanced meal, I love serving a generous slice alongside a crisp, vibrant green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette – the fresh tang provides a beautiful counterpoint to the casserole’s richness. Steamed asparagus or broccoli, seasoned lightly, also make fantastic companions, adding extra fiber and nutrients. If you’re looking for something a bit more substantial, a side of cauliflower rice or even some sautéed zucchini noodles can be wonderful for soaking up that delicious sauce.

The beauty of this casserole also lies in its adaptability. Feeling adventurous? Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick. Swap out some of the chicken for cooked shrimp in the last few minutes for a seafood twist, or integrate different low-carb vegetables like diced bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to boost the nutrient profile and introduce new textures. Different cheeses can also transform the profile; consider a sharp cheddar for a more pronounced tang, or a Monterey Jack for extra meltiness. This recipe is truly a canvas for your culinary creativity, allowing you to tailor it perfectly to your family’s preferences or whatever ingredients you happen to have on hand.

So, now it’s your turn! I genuinely hope you’ll give this incredible recipe a try. Don’t just read about its deliciousness; experience it for yourself. I promise you won’t be disappointed. When you do make it, please come back and share your experience. I absolutely adore hearing about your kitchen adventures, your successes, and even your unique twists on my recipes. Did you add a secret ingredient that took it to the next level? Did your family rave about it? Post your comments below, tag me on social media, or simply drop me a line. Your feedback and stories inspire me and help this wonderful community grow. Thank you for joining me on this delicious journey, and happy cooking!

FAQs: People Also Ask

Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this casserole?

Absolutely! Using pre-cooked chicken, whether it’s leftover rotisserie chicken, baked chicken breasts, or shredded chicken from meal prep, will significantly cut down on your prep time. Just ensure it’s fully cooked and shredded or diced before adding it to the mixture, as the cooking time in the oven is primarily for melding flavors and melting the cheese, not cooking raw chicken.

What vegetables work best in this low-carb chicken casserole?

For low-carb options, fantastic choices include broccoli florets, cauliflower florets, spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers (especially green or red), zucchini, and green beans. You can use them fresh or frozen. If using frozen, I recommend thawing and draining any excess water to prevent the casserole from becoming watery.

Is this casserole freezer-friendly?

Yes, it is! This casserole freezes beautifully. Once it’s fully cooled after baking, you can cut it into individual portions or leave it whole, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and bubbly, or reheat individual portions in the microwave.

How long does this casserole last in the refrigerator?

Leftovers of this delicious casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It makes for excellent meal prep and reheats wonderfully in the microwave or oven.

Can I make this dairy-free?

While the cheese and creamy sauce are key components, you can certainly adapt it to be dairy-free. For the creaminess, you can use a combination of unsweetened almond milk and dairy-free cream cheese or a cashew-based cream sauce. For the cheese topping, there are many excellent dairy-free shredded cheese alternatives available on the market that melt quite well.

What can I serve with this casserole to make it a complete meal?

This casserole is quite filling on its own, but to round out the meal, I love serving it with a crisp green salad tossed with a simple vinaigrette, steamed low-carb vegetables like asparagus or green beans, or even a side of cauliflower rice to soak up any extra sauce. It’s a versatile dish that pairs well with most light, fresh sides.

Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole: Creamy & Healthy Dinner

This Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is a culinary hug that fits perfectly into your low-carb journey. It’s a harmonious blend of tender, succulent chicken, vibrant low-carb vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce, all crowned with a golden, bubbly layer of cheese. The perfect solution for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or even impressing guests with a wholesome, hearty, and effortlessly elegant meal, proving healthy eating doesn’t sacrifice deliciousness!

Prep Time
25 Minutes

Cook Time
25 Minutes

Total Time
1 Hours

Servings
8 servings

Ingredients

• 3-4 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 8 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup low sodium chicken broth
• 1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided (or other melting cheese like provolone, Monterey Jack, or Colby)
• 1 cup shredded low-moisture part-skim mozzarella cheese, divided
• 3-4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped (par-boil 2-3 mins if fresh, add frozen if using)
• 2-3 cups fresh cauliflower florets, chopped
• 5 oz (about 5 cups loosely packed) fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter or extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
• Optional Garnish: Fresh parsley or chives, chopped

Instructions

1. Step 1
   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Step 2
   {‘@type’: ‘HowToStep’, ‘name’: ‘Prep Ingredients’, ‘text’: “Shred or dice cooked chicken (approx. 3-4 cups). Chop broccoli and cauliflower into bite-sized pieces (par-boil fresh broccoli 2-3 mins or add frozen directly). Roughly chop spinach. Finely chop onion and mince garlic. Measure all cheeses and seasonings for ‘mise en place’.”}
3. Step 3
   In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter (or heat oil). Sauté chopped onion for 5-7 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic; cook 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn. Stir in broccoli and cauliflower; cook 5-7 minutes to slightly pre-cook. Add spinach; cook 2-3 minutes until wilted. Lightly season veggies with salt and pepper.
4. Step 4
   Reduce heat to low. Add softened cream cheese to the skillet; stir until melted and incorporated. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth; whisk until smooth. Stir in salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian herbs; mix well. Taste and adjust seasonings.
5. Step 5
   Remove skillet from heat. Fold in 1 cup sharp cheddar and 1/2 cup mozzarella into the warm sauce until melted and fully incorporated.
6. Step 6
   Add shredded chicken to the creamy vegetable and cheese sauce. Gently fold until chicken is evenly coated. Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly.
7. Step 7
   Generously sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup sharp cheddar and 1/2 cup mozzarella over the casserole top. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown. If cheese browns too quickly, tent with foil.
8. Step 8
   Remove from oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or chives, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.