Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is a simple, comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, creamy cheese, and a mix of fresh veggies. It’s perfect when you want something filling but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen or end up with heavy carbs weighing you down. The best part is how quick it comes together and bakes into a bubbly, golden meal.
I love making this casserole on a busy weeknight because it feels like a warm hug on a plate. The creamy sauce and melted cheese make every bite rich and satisfying, while the low-carb ingredients keep it light enough to enjoy without any guilt. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some vegetables without it feeling like a diet meal.
My favorite way to serve this casserole is with a crisp side salad or steamed green beans, which add a nice fresh crunch to the creamy chicken mix. It’s a dish that always gets a thumbs-up from everyone at the table, and I find it’s even better the next day—great for leftovers or packing up for lunch. If you’re looking for a fuss-free dinner that feels cozy but keeps things on the lighter side, give this one a try!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Using cooked chicken breast gives a lean protein base. Rotisserie chicken works great for quick prep. You can swap for turkey or even cooked tofu for a different twist.
Mushrooms & Broccoli: These veggies add texture and nutrients without carbs. If fresh broccoli isn’t around, frozen works well too. Feel free to add cauliflower or spinach as tasty low-carb options.
Cream Cheese & Sour Cream: These create the creamy sauce. Softened cream cheese blends easier—room temperature is best. If you want a dairy-free version, try coconut cream or vegan cream cheese.
Cheeses: Cheddar and Parmesan add rich flavor and a golden crust. Mozzarella or Monterey Jack can be good substitutes. For a sharper bite, try adding a bit of smoked gouda.
How Do You Make This Casserole Creamy and Well-Blended?
Mixing the creamy ingredients smoothly is key. Here’s how: soften cream cheese beforehand, then stir it with sour cream and mayo until no lumps remain. Adding the dry spices here ensures flavor is evenly spread.
- Use room temperature cream cheese to avoid clumps.
- Mix sour cream and mayo well before folding in chicken and veggies gently.
- Don’t over-stir veggies to keep their shape and texture.
- Spread evenly in your dish so it bakes uniformly.
These steps ensure a creamy, well-blended casserole that bakes into a bubbly, golden meal every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Medium mixing bowl – perfect for combining the creamy sauce and chicken evenly.
- Cheese grater – makes shredding cheddar and Parmesan quick and easy.
- Measuring cups and spoons – help you get the right balance of ingredients without guesswork.
- Casserole dish (about 8×8 inches) – holds everything nicely and browns the cheese perfectly on top.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – gentle for mixing without breaking up chicken too much.
- Oven mitts – essential for safely handling the hot casserole dish when it’s fresh out of the oven.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap broccoli for cauliflower if you prefer a milder vegetable or to change up the texture.
- Add cooked bacon bits for extra smoky flavor and a crispy bite on top.
- Mix in chopped spinach or kale for a boost of green and some added nutrition.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a bit of spicy kick that livens up the dish.
Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Casserole:
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 1 cup chopped mushrooms
- 1 cup broccoli florets (steamed or blanched)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 cup cream cheese (softened)
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 25 to 30 minutes to bake. After baking, allow it to rest for 5 minutes before serving. So, total time is around 45 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Dish:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a medium-sized casserole dish to prevent sticking.
2. Mix The Creamy Sauce:
In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Add Chicken and Vegetables:
Gently fold in the cooked chicken, chopped mushrooms, and steamed broccoli until everything is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
4. Assemble and Bake:
Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
5. Cool and Serve:
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes to set. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if you like. Serve warm with a side salad or steamed veggies for a complete low-carb meal.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Casserole?
Yes, you can! Just make sure the chicken is fully thawed before using it. Thaw frozen chicken in the fridge overnight or use the cold water method for quicker thawing. Pat it dry before adding to avoid extra moisture.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake it as directed—add a few extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally for even heating.
What Can I Substitute for Broccoli?
Cauliflower, spinach, or zucchini make great low-carb veggie swaps. Just make sure to steam or sauté them lightly before folding into the casserole to avoid excess moisture.
