If you’re craving something cozy, cheesy, and satisfying—without the extra carbs—this Cheesy Low-Carb Chicken Casserole is the answer. It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent but keeps things light and balanced. Loaded with tender chicken, gooey melted cheese, and low-carb veggies, this casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or anyone following a low-carb lifestyle. Simple to make and even better to eat, it’s comfort food made smarter.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Low-Carb Chicken Casserole
This Cheesy Low-Carb Chicken Casserole is a lifesaver for busy days. It’s incredibly easy to make, taking just 15 minutes of prep time. The best part? It’s a one-dish wonder, which means less cleanup for you! With its creamy texture and cheesy flavor, it’s a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, it’s low in carbs, making it a guilt-free indulgence that satisfies cravings without the extra calories!
Ingredients for Cheesy Low-Carb Chicken Casserole
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful Cheesy Low-Carb Chicken Casserole. Here’s what you’ll need:
Cooked, shredded chicken: This is the star of the dish, providing protein and heartiness. You can use leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand.
Broccoli florets: Fresh or frozen, broccoli adds a nice crunch and a pop of color. It’s also packed with vitamins!
Cauliflower florets: Another veggie hero! Cauliflower gives the casserole a creamy texture while keeping it low in carbs.
Shredded cheddar cheese: This cheesy goodness melts beautifully, creating that irresistible gooey layer on top.
Cream cheese: Softened cream cheese adds richness and creaminess, making every bite feel indulgent.
Sour cream: This tangy ingredient enhances the flavor and adds moisture to the casserole.
Chicken broth: A splash of broth helps bind everything together and adds depth to the flavor.
Garlic powder: A must-have for that aromatic kick! It elevates the overall taste without overpowering the dish.
Onion powder: This adds a subtle sweetness and depth, complementing the other flavors perfectly.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors in the casserole.
Paprika: A sprinkle of paprika adds a hint of smokiness and a lovely color to the dish.
Green onions: Chopped for garnish, they add a fresh crunch and a burst of color when serving.
For those looking to mix things up, consider adding cooked bacon or diced bell peppers for extra flavor. You can also substitute the chicken with cooked ground turkey or sausage for a different protein option. If you want to see the exact measurements, they’re available at the bottom of the article for easy printing!
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How to Make Cheesy Low-Carb Chicken Casserole
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making this Cheesy Low-Carb Chicken Casserole! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for ensuring your casserole bakes evenly. While the oven warms up, grab your 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil. This little step helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze!
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, broccoli, cauliflower, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix everything until well combined. This is where the magic begins! The colors and textures come together, creating a mouthwatering mixture that’s hard to resist.
Step 3: Pour into Baking Dish
Next, pour the chicken mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly across the bottom. This ensures even cooking and a delightful texture throughout the casserole. Trust me, you want every bite to be just as delicious as the last!
Step 4: Bake
Now, it’s time to bake! Place the dish in your preheated oven and let it bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you’ll know it’s ready when the casserole is bubbly and the top is lightly golden. This is the moment of anticipation, and the aroma will have everyone gathering in the kitchen!
Step 5: Cool and Garnish
Once it’s out of the oven, let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes. This helps the flavors settle and makes serving easier. Before you dig in, garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh touch. It adds a pop of color and a hint of crunch that elevates the dish!
Tips for Success
Use leftover chicken for a quicker prep time; it saves you cooking time!
Don’t skip greasing the baking dish; it makes serving much easier.
Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste; a little extra garlic never hurts!
Let the casserole cool slightly before serving; it helps the layers set.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
Equipment Needed
Baking dish: A 9×13-inch dish is ideal, but any oven-safe dish will work.
Mixing bowl: A large bowl for combining ingredients; a sturdy one is best.
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient portions.
Spatula: Great for mixing and spreading the casserole evenly.
Oven mitts: Safety first! Protect your hands when handling hot dishes.
Variations
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy twist that will wake up your taste buds!
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch that elevates the flavor profile.
Cheese Lovers: Experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique cheesy experience.
Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for chickpeas or lentils to create a hearty vegetarian casserole that’s still packed with protein.
Low-Fat Version: Use low-fat cream cheese and sour cream to cut down on calories without sacrificing flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Fresh Salad: Pair the casserole with a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast.
Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for a comforting touch.
Wine Pairing: A chilled white wine complements the flavors beautifully.
Presentation: Serve in individual ramekins for a fun, personal touch!
FAQs about Cheesy Low-Carb Chicken Casserole
Can I make this Cheesy Low-Carb Chicken Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven.
What can I substitute for chicken in this casserole?
If you’re looking for a different protein, cooked ground turkey or sausage works wonderfully. You can also use chickpeas or lentils for a vegetarian option that’s still hearty and satisfying.
How do I store leftovers of the Cheesy Low-Carb Chicken Casserole?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. It’s just as delicious the next day!
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed. It’s a great meal prep option!
Is this casserole suitable for a low-carb diet?
Definitely! This Cheesy Low-Carb Chicken Casserole is designed to be low in carbs while still being filling and flavorful. With only 5 grams of carbohydrates per serving, it’s a perfect fit for low-carb lifestyles.
Final Thoughts
Cooking this Cheesy Low-Carb Chicken Casserole is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating moments. The joy of gathering around the table, sharing laughter, and savoring each cheesy bite is what makes this dish special. It’s a comforting reminder that even on the busiest days, you can whip up something delicious and nutritious. Plus, the smiles on my family’s faces when they dig in? Priceless! I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your home as it has to mine. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen always be filled with love and laughter!
A deliciously easy low-carb chicken casserole packed with cheesy goodness and healthy vegetables.
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
1 cup broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
1 cup cauliflower florets (fresh or frozen)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/4 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, broccoli, cauliflower, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix until well combined.
Pour the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is lightly golden.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Notes
For added flavor, consider mixing in some cooked bacon or diced bell peppers.
Substitute the chicken with cooked ground turkey or sausage for a different protein option.
