Introduction
If you’re craving something warm, filling, and low in carbs, this Low Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe checks every box. It brings together cooked chicken, creamy cheese, and nutrient-packed vegetables into one easy dish that satisfies without spiking your carbs.
Perfect for weeknights or when you need recipes for low carb meals that actually taste good, this casserole is both comforting and clean. It’s also a smart option if you’re cooking for two or meal prepping for the week.
Whether you’re following keto, managing weight, or just trying to eat better, this dish keeps things simple without sacrificing flavor. Below, you’ll find everything you need to make it, plus tips for customizing it to fit your diet and schedule.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for This Low Carb Chicken Casserole
This dish is built around clean, low-carb staples. Most of the ingredients are easy to find and may already be in your kitchen. Each one plays a role in creating a creamy, savory casserole without added carbs.
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped (rotisserie works well)
- 2 cups broccoli florets, lightly steamed
- 1 cup cauliflower rice, sautéed until tender
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan (optional for topping)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins
- Chopped bell peppers or spinach for extra color and nutrients
- Crushed pork rinds or almond flour as a crunchy topping
- Fresh herbs like parsley or basil for garnish
These ingredients combine to create a rich and satisfying base perfect for any low carb cooked chicken recipes. You can swap or skip a few items based on your preferences or dietary needs.
Can I use leftover chicken instead of rotisserie?
Yes. Leftover baked or grilled chicken works just as well. Just make sure it’s seasoned and fully cooked before adding it to the casserole.
How to Make This Healthy Low Carb Chicken Casserole
This recipe is designed to be simple and efficient. With just a few steps, you can have a hearty, low carb dinner on the table using ingredients that are both healthy and filling.
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Base
In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, and cauliflower rice. Mix until evenly distributed and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the cream cheese. Slowly whisk in the heavy cream and sour cream until smooth. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Once the mixture is warm and creamy, add one cup of cheddar cheese and stir until fully melted.
Step 4: Combine and Assemble
Pour the cheese sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Toss gently until everything is coated. Transfer the mixture to your baking dish and spread it evenly.
Step 5: Add Toppings and Bake
Sprinkle mozzarella, the remaining cheddar, and Parmesan over the top. If you want extra texture, add crushed pork rinds or almond flour as a crunchy layer. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
If you want a crowd-pleasing follow up, try Easy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. You can assemble the casserole the night before, refrigerate it, and bake it when ready. Just add five extra minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.
Tips and Tricks for Better Low Carb Dishes Recipes
Making a low carb casserole taste amazing comes down to a few smart choices. These tips help boost flavor, improve texture, and keep your dish satisfying without extra carbs.
Use freshly shredded cheese
Pre-shredded cheese often includes anti-caking agents that affect how smoothly it melts. Shredding your own cheese gives the sauce a creamier texture and richer flavor.
Steam vegetables just until tender
Broccoli and cauliflower can turn mushy if overcooked. Steam them lightly so they hold their shape and bite even after baking.
Balance textures
A low carb dish can feel flat if everything is soft. Add crunch with toppings like crushed pork rinds, almond flour, or chopped nuts if your diet allows.
Pair it with Baked Parmesan Zucchini for crunch and color
Taste as you go
The sauce is your main flavor carrier. Adjust salt, pepper, or add a dash of mustard or hot sauce if it tastes too mild for your liking.
Cook once, eat twice
This recipe works well for meal prep. Divide it into containers after baking and refrigerate for up to four days. It reheats well in the oven or microwave.
Why does my casserole turn out watery?
Excess moisture from over-steamed veggies or uncovered baking can cause this. Try patting vegetables dry before mixing and bake uncovered for better texture.
Variations for Low Carb Recipes for Two
This casserole is easy to scale down without losing flavor. If you’re cooking for yourself or with a partner, try these simple adjustments to keep the portion size just right and avoid waste.
Halve the recipe
Use half the amount of each ingredient and bake it in a smaller dish such as an 8×8 inch pan. The cooking time may shorten slightly, so start checking at the 20-minute mark.
Use individual ramekins
Split the ingredients into two ramekins or small baking dishes. This creates a more personal presentation and helps with portion control. Plus, it heats up faster and feels a bit more special.
Add flavor variety
If you’re making dinner recipes for two low carb eaters with different tastes, divide the base mixture in two and customize each half. Add jalapeños or bacon to one, and extra herbs or spinach to the other.
Make it a full meal
Pair with a light salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced dinner for two low carb style. A side of keto garlic bread or sautéed zucchini also works well.
Need a no-cook option tomorrow? Mediterranean Tuna Salad
Can I freeze individual portions for later?
Yes. After baking, let the casserole cool completely. Store individual portions in freezer-safe containers. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Optional Crockpot Method for Easy Low Carb Dinner Ideas
If you prefer to let dinner cook itself while you go about your day, the crockpot version of this recipe is a great option. It keeps everything low carb while saving time and effort.
How to adapt the recipe
Add the cooked chicken, broccoli, cauliflower rice, and all other ingredients except the shredded cheeses into your slow cooker. Mix gently to combine. Cover and cook on low for 3 hours or on high for 1.5 hours.
Add the cheese near the end
To avoid a gritty texture, stir in the cheddar and mozzarella during the last 15 to 20 minutes of cooking. Let the cheese melt fully before serving.
Benefits of this method
The crockpot version works well for busy evenings or when you do not want to use the oven. It also helps the flavors meld together slowly, which adds depth to the dish.
Can I use raw chicken in the crockpot version?
Yes, but you will need to increase the cook time to 4 to 5 hours on low. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F before serving.
Bariatric-Friendly and Healthy Dinner Casserole Modifications
If you are following a post-bariatric surgery diet or need a softer, high-protein meal, this low carb casserole can be easily adapted to fit your needs. It is already gentle on carbs and rich in nutrients, but a few small tweaks can make it even more suitable.
Choose softer vegetables
Use finely chopped spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms instead of firmer vegetables like broccoli. These cook down easily and are less fibrous, making digestion easier after surgery.
Swap the dairy wisely
If cream cheese feels too heavy, use a lighter dairy option such as plain Greek yogurt or cottage cheese. These still add creaminess while being easier on the stomach and higher in protein.
Portion with care
Serve in small ramekins or measure portions to stay within your recommended intake. This also helps track protein and calorie goals more accurately.
Avoid crunchy toppings
Skip crushed pork rinds or almond flour toppings if you are early in recovery. Stick to smooth textures and top with a light sprinkle of Parmesan or blended cheese instead.
Is this casserole safe for the soft food stage?
Yes, with proper adjustments. Use soft vegetables, avoid crunchy toppings, and puree or finely shred ingredients if needed. Always follow your provider’s dietary guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this low carb casserole ahead of time?
Yes. You can assemble the casserole up to one day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator and bake it just before serving. If cold, add five extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I freeze this dish for later?
Absolutely. Once baked and cooled, portion the casserole into airtight containers and freeze for up to two months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven at 350°F until hot.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes. It fits most ketogenic guidelines with its high fat, moderate protein, and low carbohydrate content. Just be sure to use full-fat dairy products and avoid high-carb add-ins.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
Plain Greek yogurt, mascarpone, or cottage cheese are good alternatives. They provide a creamy base while offering slightly different textures and nutritional profiles.
Can I use other vegetables besides broccoli and cauliflower?
Yes. Zucchini, spinach, kale, or mushrooms work well. Be sure to sauté or steam them first to remove excess moisture.
Nutrition Information
Knowing the nutritional breakdown can help you stay on track with your low carb goals. Below is an approximate analysis per serving based on six servings total. Actual values may vary slightly depending on brands and ingredient substitutions.
Per Serving (1/6 of the casserole)
- Calories: 410
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Protein: 28g
- Total Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Net Carbs: 5g
- Sugars: 2g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Cholesterol: 110mg
This nutritional profile supports both low carb and ketogenic diets. It is also a strong option for those focused on high protein and moderate calorie meals.
How can I lower the fat content?
Use reduced-fat dairy options and increase the portion of vegetables. This reduces overall fat while maintaining flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
This low carb chicken casserole recipe is more than just another dinner idea. It is a smart, satisfying choice that brings together comfort, flavor, and nutrition in one dish. Whether you are following a keto plan, watching your carbs, or just want a healthier take on classic comfort food, this recipe fits the bill.
Its flexible ingredients, easy prep, and make-ahead options make it perfect for busy households, couples, or anyone who wants clean eating without extra effort. Plus, it is friendly for bariatric and low carb lifestyles alike.
If you give it a try, consider sharing your version or saving it for next time. A recipe this easy deserves a spot in your regular dinner rotation.
Low Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe
Equipment
- Oven
- Saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- Baking Dish
Ingredients
Casserole Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken shredded or diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets lightly steamed
- 1 cup cauliflower rice sautéed until tender
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese softened
- 1.5 cups cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
- 0.5 cup sour cream
- 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese grated, optional
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
- salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, and cauliflower rice.
- In a saucepan, melt the cream cheese over low heat. Stir in heavy cream and sour cream until smooth. Add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix in 1 cup of cheddar until melted.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Toss to coat evenly, then transfer to the baking dish.
- Top with mozzarella, remaining cheddar, and Parmesan. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with herbs if desired.
Notes
- Calories: 410
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Protein: 28g
- Total Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Net Carbs: 5g
- Sugars: 2g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Cholesterol: 110mg
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