This Low Carb Chicken Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, creamy cheese, and fresh veggies all baked to golden perfection. It’s packed with flavors and textures, making it a satisfying meal without any extra carbs slowing you down. The melty cheese on top adds just the right amount of gooey goodness.
I love making this casserole when I want something filling but still light enough to keep me feeling good afterward. It’s one of those dishes that puts a smile on my face because it’s so easy to throw together, but still feels special when it comes out of the oven. Plus, you can easily swap in your favorite veggies or add a little spice if you like a kick!
My favorite way to enjoy this Low Carb Chicken Casserole is with a fresh side salad or some steamed greens to keep everything balanced. It’s great for dinner but also makes fantastic leftovers for lunch the next day. Whenever I serve this, I always hear how everyone appreciates a tasty dish that’s both delicious and kind to their carb count.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I usually use boneless, skinless chicken breasts because they cook fairly quickly and stay tender. You can swap in thighs if you want juicier meat, but cook times might be a bit longer.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli adds a nice crunch and bright flavor. Frozen works fine too—just thaw or steam briefly so it’s not too soft in the casserole.
Cream Cheese & Sour Cream: These give the casserole its creamy texture and tang. If you prefer dairy-free, try a cream cheese substitute made from nuts or coconut.
Bacon: Adds smoky flavor and crunch. Turkey bacon can be used for a leaner option, or skip it and add extra cheese for richness.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts well and adds flavor. If you like, try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses to change up the taste.
How Can I Make Sure the Chicken Stays Tender and Juicy?
Chicken can dry out when baked in casseroles if not handled carefully. Here’s what helps:
- Use chicken breasts of similar size so they cook evenly.
- Don’t over-bake—check internal temperature with a meat thermometer; 165°F (74°C) is safe and juicy.
- Covering chicken with the creamy cheese mix seals moisture in.
- Let the dish rest a few minutes after baking to redistribute juices.
Following these tips will give you moist and tender chicken every time, perfectly balanced with the creamy and cheesy topping.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking dish – I use this size because it fits everything well without overflowing.
- Skillet or frying pan – perfect for sautéing onions, garlic, and mushrooms quickly.
- Mixing bowls – for combining the creamy cheese mixture; a medium size works best.
- Meat thermometer – handy to check when the chicken is fully cooked and juicy.
- Cooking spoon or spatula – I prefer a silicone one to stir ingredients without scratching pans.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap bacon for cooked turkey sausage or ham to change up the flavor and keep it lean.
- Add chopped spinach, kale, or bell peppers for extra veggies and color.
- Mix in a pinch of paprika, cayenne, or Italian herbs to adjust the spice level or give it a different taste.
- Replace cheddar with pepper jack, mozzarella, or Swiss cheese for a cheese twist or milder flavor.
How to Make Low Carb Chicken Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Casserole:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen
- 1 cup chopped mushrooms
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for sautéing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Low Carb Chicken Casserole takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 30-40 minutes to bake. So, plan for roughly 50-55 minutes total from start to finish. It’s straightforward and makes a great hearty meal on a weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prep:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish so the casserole won’t stick.
2. Sauté Veggies:
Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, minced garlic, and mushrooms. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring until they are soft and fragrant.
3. Mix Creamy Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, sautéed veggies, shredded cheddar cheese, dried parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until you have a smooth, creamy mixture.
4. Prepare Broccoli and Chicken:
If you’re using frozen broccoli, steam or microwave it briefly until it’s just tender but still firm. Spread the chicken breasts evenly in the baking dish, then surround and tuck some broccoli under and around the chicken.
5. Assemble and Bake:
Spread the creamy cheese sauce evenly over the tops of the chicken breasts. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon across the dish. Bake uncovered for 30-40 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese sauce is bubbly and golden on top. For a little extra cheesiness, add more shredded cheddar during the last 5 minutes of baking.
6. Rest and Serve:
Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or green onions if you like. Then, serve and enjoy your delicious low carb meal!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Yes! Just be sure to steam or microwave the frozen broccoli until it’s tender but still firm before adding it to the casserole. This helps prevent excess moisture and keeps the texture just right.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm gently in the oven or microwave until heated through to keep the chicken tender and the cheese melty.
Can I Substitute the Bacon?
Absolutely! You can swap bacon for cooked turkey bacon, ham, or even cooked sausage if you prefer a different flavor or want a leaner option.
Is There a Dairy-Free Version of This Recipe?
Yes, you can use dairy-free cream cheese, sour cream, and cheese substitutes available at most grocery stores. These alternatives will keep the casserole creamy while fitting a dairy-free diet.