Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe

You know those nights when dinner feels like a chore instead of a joy? When the clock is ticking, the family is hungry, and you’re desperately searching for something that’s both satisfying and simple? Let me introduce you to your new kitchen best friend: this Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole. It’s the cozy, comforting hug of a meal you crave, without the carb-heavy aftermath. It truly is the perfect solution for a busy evening, proving that eating well doesn’t have to be complicated.

This dish has become a legend in my own home. It started as a happy accident when I was trying to use up leftover chicken and some cream cheese that was begging for a purpose. The result was so delicious, my kids actually asked for seconds of the “green stuff” (thank you, tender broccoli florets!). Now, it’s my secret weapon for potlucks and a guaranteed win for a stress-free family dinner.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Casserole

• Seriously Simple: We’re talking about 15 minutes of prep. Just mix, bake, and enjoy the compliments.
• Family-Friendly Magic: Even the pickiest eaters are won over by the creamy, cheesy goodness. It’s a stealthy way to get some veggies in!
• Low Carb, High Flavor: Indulge in that rich, comforting casserole feeling while staying on track with your health goals.
• Customizable Canvas: Don’t have broccoli? Swap in cauliflower. Want a little kick? A dash of hot sauce does wonders.

Gather Your Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting masterpiece. The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity and the flexibility to use what you have on hand.

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• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
• 1 head of broccoli, cut into small florets (about 3 cups)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup yellow onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste

How To Make This Easy Chicken Casserole

Follow these simple steps for a guaranteed delicious result. Don’t be afraid to make it your own!

Prep and Sauté

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for one more minute until fragrant.

Create the Creamy Sauce

Reduce the heat to low. Add the softened cream cheese, heavy cream, and chicken broth to the skillet. Whisk continuously until the cream cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and unified. Stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, paprika, salt, and pepper. Keep whisking until the cheese is melted and the sauce is luxuriously creamy.

Combine and Bake

Add the cooked chicken and broccoli florets to the skillet. Gently toss everything until the chicken and broccoli are evenly coated in that glorious sauce. Transfer the entire mixture to your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese.

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the cheese on top is golden and beautifully melted. For an extra crispy top, you can broil it for the last 1-2 minutes—just keep a close eye on it!

My Best Tips for Casserole Success

This recipe is wonderfully forgiving, but here are a few pointers to make it absolutely perfect every time.

• Don’t Stress the Chicken: This is a fantastic way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have. It saves so much time! If you’re starting from scratch, simply poach or bake two chicken breasts until cooked through.
• Veggie Swap: Not a broccoli fan? Cauliflower florets work just as well. You could also add in some sliced mushrooms or spinach when you sauté the onions.
• Spice It Up: Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the creamy sauce for a little warmth.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven. The sauce might thicken when chilled, so a splash of broth or cream when reheating can bring it back to life.

What to Serve With Your Casserole

This creamy low carb chicken casserole is a satisfying meal all on its own, but it also plays well with others! For a complete low-carb feast, serve it with a simple fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. If carbs aren’t a concern, a slice of crusty bread for dipping into the creamy sauce is pure heaven. It’s also fantastic alongside some zucchini noodles for a truly veggie-packed plate.

Nutrition Information

This information is an estimate per serving, assuming the casserole is divided into 6 equal portions.

• Calories: 385
• Fat: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Net Carbs: 5g
• Protein: 25g

There you have it! A Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to eat. It’s the kind of meal that fills your home with a wonderful aroma and your family with happy smiles. I hope this recipe finds a special place in your weekly rotation, bringing you as much comfort and ease as it has brought to my kitchen. If you’re looking for another comforting, cheesy dish, you might love this hearty sausage pasta bake.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze this chicken casserole?

You can! Assemble the casserole completely but do not bake it. Cover it tightly with both plastic wrap and foil before freezing for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.

What’s the best way to cook the chicken for this recipe?

Using a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is the ultimate time-saver and adds great flavor. Alternatively, you can quickly poach chicken breasts by placing them in a pot, covering with water, bringing to a boil, then reducing to a simmer for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely. While cheddar gives a classic flavor, you can experiment with Monterey Jack for a milder taste, a pepper Jack for some spice, or even a Swiss or Gouda for a different flavor profile. The cream cheese is key for the base of the sauce, but the topping cheese is flexible.

How can I make this dish ahead of time?

This is a great make-ahead meal. Simply prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover the dish, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, just pop it in the oven. You may need to add 5-10 minutes to the baking time since it will be going in cold.