There’s just something deeply comforting about a casserole bubbling away in the oven. It fills the kitchen with warmth, sends out the kind of savory aroma that has everyone asking “What’s for dinner?” and brings people together around the table without a lot of fuss. This Easy Low-Carb Chicken Casserole has become a regular favorite in our home — the kind of recipe that makes weeknight dinners feel a little extra cozy without adding stress to your day.
Growing up, casseroles were a staple in my family — especially during cooler months. They were economical, filling, and always a crowd-pleaser. This particular version is a lighter take on those classic creamy casseroles I remember from childhood, but it still delivers all that rich, hearty flavor we crave. It’s low in carbs, which makes it a great option if you’re cutting back on starches, and it’s packed with lean protein and wholesome veggies, which means you’re getting a dinner that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Whether you’re following a low-carb lifestyle, meal prepping for the week, or just need something you can toss together quickly after work, this casserole has your back. It’s also endlessly customizable — a great clean-out-the-fridge kind of dish. You can throw in leftover veggies, adjust the spices, or even use rotisserie chicken to save time. Best of all? It comes together in one pan and reheats like a dream.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s warm, creamy, and packed with flavor while still being healthy and low-carb.
- You only need one casserole dish — minimal cleanup required.
- It’s a great way to use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken.
- It’s perfect for meal prepping — reheats wonderfully for lunch or dinner the next day.
- Completely family-friendly — even picky eaters enjoy it.
- Customizable with your favorite low-carb veggies or seasonings.
INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup broccoli florets, chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
HOW TO MAKE EASY LOW-CARB CHICKEN CASSEROLE:
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming up, grab a casserole dish — about 9×9 inches works well — and lightly grease it with a bit of butter or olive oil. You want that golden edge around the sides when it’s done baking!
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies (Optional but Adds Depth!)
In a skillet over medium heat, lightly sauté your chopped onions and broccoli in a splash of olive oil for about 4-5 minutes. This step is optional, but it gives the veggies a bit of caramelization that makes the casserole even more flavorful. If you’re short on time, you can skip this and use the veggies raw — just expect a bit more texture.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until it’s creamy and smooth. If your cream cheese is a bit stubborn, microwave it for about 15 seconds to soften further.
Step 4: Add the Chicken and Veggies
Toss your shredded chicken and sautéed (or raw) veggies into the creamy mixture. Stir well to make sure everything is evenly coated. You want every bite to have a little bit of everything — chicken, creamy sauce, and veggies.
Step 5: Pour and Top with Cheese
Pour the whole mixture into your prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top — this is where all the melty, golden goodness comes in.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Slide the dish into your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and slightly golden. The edges should be just a bit crisp and irresistible.
Step 7: Cool Slightly and Serve
Let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving — this helps the casserole set a little so it scoops easily. Then serve it up with a side salad or just enjoy it as-is.
HELPFUL TIPS:
- Use Pre-Cooked Chicken: Rotisserie chicken works beautifully here and cuts down your prep time.
- Add Extra Veggies: Mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini are great low-carb additions. Just be sure to sauté or remove excess moisture before adding.
- Go Dairy-Free? You can use dairy-free cream cheese and shredded cheese if needed. Just keep an eye on the texture and flavor.
- Spice It Up: Add a little crushed red pepper or a dash of cayenne for a bit of a kick.
- Meal Prep Hero: Divide into containers after baking and store for lunches — it reheats wonderfully in the microwave.
DETAILS:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low-Carb, Gluten-Free
NOTES:
Feel free to double the batch and make a larger casserole if you’re feeding a crowd — just use a bigger dish and add 5-10 minutes to the baking time. If you want a little extra crunch, try sprinkling some crushed pork-free crispy onions or crushed nuts on top before baking.
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION (Per Serving – Approximate):
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 27g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbs: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes! Just let it cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze. It’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot all the way through.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can assemble it ahead and store it in the fridge (covered) for up to 24 hours before baking. Great for prepping the night before.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
The microwave works great, or you can warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes, covered with foil to keep it moist.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use your favorite non-dairy alternatives for sour cream, cream cheese, and shredded cheese. Keep in mind the flavor will vary slightly.
STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS:
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Store in a freezer-safe container or wrap individual portions. Keeps up to 2 months.
- To Reheat: Microwave individual servings or warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Related Recipes
If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cheesy delights:
- Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo
- Heart-Healthy Rosemary Chicken Dijon
- Cowboy Casserole
- Sausage and Egg Casserole
CONCLUSION
This Easy Low-Carb Chicken Casserole is more than just a quick dinner fix — it’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table with happy hearts and full plates. It’s creamy, cheesy, satisfying, and guilt-free. Whether you’re looking to stick to a low-carb plan or just need a reliable, crowd-pleasing dinner, this recipe is sure to earn a spot in your weekly rotation. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a household favorite!
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Easy Low-Carb Chicken Casserole – A Comforting, Healthy Dinner You’ll Want on Repeat
Description
There’s just something deeply comforting about a casserole bubbling away in the oven. It fills the kitchen with warmth, sends out the kind of savory aroma that has everyone asking “What’s for dinner?” and brings people together around the table without a lot of fuss. This Easy Low-Carb Chicken Casserole has become a regular favorite in our home — the kind of recipe that makes weeknight dinners feel a little extra cozy without adding stress to your day.
Growing up, casseroles were a staple in my family — especially during cooler months. They were economical, filling, and always a crowd-pleaser. This particular version is a lighter take on those classic creamy casseroles I remember from childhood, but it still delivers all that rich, hearty flavor we crave. It’s low in carbs, which makes it a great option if you’re cutting back on starches, and it’s packed with lean protein and wholesome veggies, which means you’re getting a dinner that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Whether you’re following a low-carb lifestyle, meal prepping for the week, or just need something you can toss together quickly after work, this casserole has your back. It’s also endlessly customizable — a great clean-out-the-fridge kind of dish. You can throw in leftover veggies, adjust the spices, or even use rotisserie chicken to save time. Best of all? It comes together in one pan and reheats like a dream.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked shredded chicken
1 cup broccoli florets, chopped
1/2 cup chopped onion
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming up, grab a casserole dish — about 9×9 inches works well — and lightly grease it with a bit of butter or olive oil. You want that golden edge around the sides when it’s done baking!
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies (Optional but Adds Depth!)
In a skillet over medium heat, lightly sauté your chopped onions and broccoli in a splash of olive oil for about 4-5 minutes. This step is optional, but it gives the veggies a bit of caramelization that makes the casserole even more flavorful. If you’re short on time, you can skip this and use the veggies raw — just expect a bit more texture.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until it’s creamy and smooth. If your cream cheese is a bit stubborn, microwave it for about 15 seconds to soften further.
Step 4: Add the Chicken and Veggies
Toss your shredded chicken and sautéed (or raw) veggies into the creamy mixture. Stir well to make sure everything is evenly coated. You want every bite to have a little bit of everything — chicken, creamy sauce, and veggies.
Step 5: Pour and Top with Cheese
Pour the whole mixture into your prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top — this is where all the melty, golden goodness comes in.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Slide the dish into your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and slightly golden. The edges should be just a bit crisp and irresistible.
Step 7: Cool Slightly and Serve
Let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving — this helps the casserole set a little so it scoops easily. Then serve it up with a side salad or just enjoy it as-is.
Notes
Feel free to double the batch and make a larger casserole if you’re feeding a crowd — just use a bigger dish and add 5-10 minutes to the baking time. If you want a little extra crunch, try sprinkling some crushed pork-free crispy onions or crushed nuts on top before baking.