This Low Carb Chicken Casserole is a creamy, cheesy dish packed with tender chicken and fresh vegetables, all baked together to golden perfection. It’s a comforting meal that feels hearty without the heavy carbs, making it a perfect choice for anyone looking to enjoy a satisfying dinner while sticking to low-carb eating.
I love making this casserole when I want something simple to throw together but still delicious enough to impress the family. The combination of creamy sauce and melted cheese is always a winner, and the chicken stays juicy and flavorful. One tip I’ve learned is to add just the right amount of seasoning to keep all the flavors balanced and let the ingredients shine.
This casserole works great for weeknight dinners or meal prepping ahead of time because it reheats beautifully. I like serving it with a fresh side salad or some steamed green veggies for a well-rounded meal. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug after a busy day, and it never goes out of style in my kitchen.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Using cooked chicken breast keeps the casserole lean and protein-packed. You can swap with cooked rotisserie chicken or shredded turkey if you want a different flavor.
Broccoli: Fresh or frozen broccoli works well here. If you’re not a broccoli fan, cauliflower florets are a great low-carb substitute that roasts nicely.
Mushrooms: They add a subtle earthiness and moisture. Feel free to replace them with sautéed spinach or zucchini for variety.
Cheese: Cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan create a creamy, melty texture with rich flavor. If you’re avoiding dairy, try dairy-free cheese alternatives that melt well.
Cream Cheese & Heavy Cream: These give the casserole a smooth and creamy base. Sour cream is a fine swap for heavy cream and adds slight tanginess. For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt but add it at the end to prevent curdling.
How Do I Make Sure the Casserole Stays Creamy and Doesn’t Dry Out?
The key to a creamy casserole is balancing moisture and baking time:
- Don’t overcook broccoli: Steam broccoli just until tender before adding. Overcooked broccoli releases water and can make the casserole watery.
- Sauté mushrooms: Cooking mushrooms first removes excess water and intensifies flavor.
- Mix creamy ingredients well: Combine cream cheese and heavy cream thoroughly with the other ingredients to ensure even creaminess.
- Bake uncovered: This helps the top get golden brown while not trapping too much steam inside.
- Watch the baking time: Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden but don’t leave it longer than needed or it might dry out.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – I prefer this size for even baking and easy serving.
- Large mixing bowl – perfect for combining all ingredients without mess.
- Skillet or sauté pan – for cooking mushrooms and possibly warming the chicken.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to measure ingredients precisely.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – for chopping broccoli, parsley, and other add-ins.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for cooked turkey or ham for a different twist.
- Add cooked bacon bits or crumbled sausage for extra richness.
- Mix in sliced bell peppers or zucchini for more veggie variety.
- Top with a sprinkle of crushed pork rinds instead of cheese for a crunch and low-carb twist.
Low Carb Chicken Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
Cheeses and Dairy:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream or sour cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings and Others:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley or dried parsley flakes (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish will take about 10 minutes prep time and around 30 minutes baking. In total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a tasty weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Steam or blanch the broccoli florets until they are just tender, about 4–5 minutes. Drain and set them aside. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms and sauté for about 5 minutes until soft and browned.
2. Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, sautéed mushrooms, cream cheese, heavy cream (or sour cream), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the cream cheese is fully incorporated and everything is evenly combined.
3. Add Cheese and Assemble
Fold in half of the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses into the mixture. Then transfer everything to a greased baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
4. Bake and Serve
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped parsley if you like, and let it cool a few minutes before serving.
This creamy, cheesy low-carb casserole is perfect served alongside a fresh salad or steamed veggies for a balanced, comforting meal. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli for This Casserole?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well! Just thaw and drain it thoroughly before using to avoid excess moisture that could make the casserole watery.
Can I Substitute Sour Cream for Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! Sour cream adds a nice tang and keeps the dish creamy. If using Greek yogurt instead, add it off heat to prevent curdling.
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.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Casserole?
Yes! Low-carb veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach make great additions. Just sauté them like the mushrooms first to remove excess moisture.
