When the cool autumn breeze starts drifting through the air and golden leaves scatter across the yard, nothing feels more comforting than gathering around the table with a hearty casserole. This Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is one of those recipes you’ll turn to again and again when you want something cozy, satisfying, and simple enough for a weeknight dinner. It’s warm, creamy, and full of flavor—just the kind of dish that makes the house smell like home.
What makes this casserole a reader favorite is its versatility. You can prepare it ahead, bake it fresh for dinner, and even enjoy the leftovers for lunch the next day. Plus, since it’s lower in carbs, it feels lighter while still being filling and satisfying.
Print
Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
This warm, creamy, and comforting Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is packed with flavor and perfect for cozy nights or quick weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
- 2 cups broccoli florets (lightly steamed)
- 1 cup cauliflower rice (optional for extra bulk)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook and shred chicken if not already prepared; steam broccoli until just tender.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until softened.
- In a large bowl, whisk together cream cheese, sour cream, chicken broth, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in shredded chicken, sautéed onions and garlic, broccoli, cauliflower rice, and half of the mozzarella cheese.
- Spread the mixture into the baking dish and top with remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Use rotisserie chicken for a shortcut. Add jalapeños for heat or top with crushed almonds for crunch. Store leftovers in the fridge for 3–4 days or freeze unbaked for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients for Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole
Here’s what you’ll need to bring this dish to life:
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
- 2 cups broccoli florets (lightly steamed)
- 1 cup cauliflower rice (optional for extra bulk)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the chicken and veggies. If you don’t already have cooked chicken, roast or boil a few chicken breasts and shred them once cooled. Steam broccoli until just tender.
- Sauté aromatics. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant.
- Mix the creamy base. In a large bowl, whisk together cream cheese, sour cream, chicken broth, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Combine ingredients. Add shredded chicken, sautéed onions and garlic, broccoli, cauliflower rice, and half of the mozzarella. Stir until everything is coated in the creamy mixture.
- Assemble the casserole. Spread the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly on top.
- Bake until bubbly. Place in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, until the top is golden and the casserole is heated through.
- Garnish and serve. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips for Success
- Use rotisserie chicken. A store-bought rotisserie chicken saves time and adds delicious flavor.
- Steam vegetables lightly. Don’t overcook broccoli before baking—it will continue cooking in the oven.
- Check your cheese blend. A mix of mozzarella and cheddar melts beautifully, but you can experiment with Monterey Jack or Colby for a slightly different flavor.
- Don’t skip the seasoning. Paprika and thyme bring depth, but you can also add Italian seasoning for an herby twist.
Possible Variations
This Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is endlessly adaptable. Try one of these variations to suit your taste or dietary needs:
- Gluten-Free: The recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for those avoiding wheat.
- Add More Veggies: Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
- Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle crushed almond flour crackers or crushed nuts on top before baking for extra texture.
- Different Protein: Swap chicken with leftover turkey or ground chicken for a change.
Storage Recommendations
This casserole is as friendly to your schedule as it is to your taste buds.
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or in the microwave for a quick meal.
- Freezer: Assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
- Meal Prep: Portion into individual containers for quick grab-and-go lunches.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about pulling a bubbling casserole from the oven on a crisp evening. This Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is one of those recipes that balances comfort with simplicity, making it a perfect go-to for busy families and cozy nights at home. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a dish that everyone at the table will love—creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor without being heavy.
So, next time you’re craving a meal that feels like a warm hug, try this casserole. It might just become a new favorite in your seasonal rotation.