Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole – Healthy Dinner

Low Carb Chicken Casserole is the weeknight hero I lean on when I want creamy comfort without a carb crash. If you have leftover chicken and a bag of broccoli, this comes together fast and tastes like something you planned. It is cozy, cheesy, and super forgiving. I have made it on rushed Mondays and it still feels like a warm hug. The best part is it fits low carb and keto goals while staying family friendly. Let me show you how I make it simple, satisfying, and foolproof.

Low Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe Overview

This casserole is creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender chicken and broccoli. It uses a simple sauce with cream cheese and mayo, which gives it a silky texture and a slight tang that keeps every bite interesting. You get all the comfort of a classic casserole without the heavy pasta or rice.
I love this recipe because it is quick to prep, flexible with ingredients, and reheats well for meals later in the week. If you are just getting started with this style of cooking, I also recommend peeking at this similar low carb casserole for extra tips.

What Makes This Casserole Keto and Low Carb

Classic casseroles often rely on pasta, breadcrumbs, or thickened sauces. Here, we skip the starch and focus on flavorful fats and proteins. The sauce uses cream cheese and mayo instead of flour or cornstarch, so the carb count stays low without losing that creamy comfort.
Broccoli steps in for noodles, and shredded cheese on top gives you that golden, bubbly finish. This balance of protein and fat makes it a steady, filling meal that fits a keto or low carb routine.

Ingredients for Low Carb Chicken Casserole

What you will need

• Cooked chicken, shredded or chopped – about 3 cups
• Broccoli florets – 4 cups fresh or 3 cups frozen, thawed and drained
• Cream cheese – 8 ounces, softened
• Mayonnaise – 1/2 cup
• Shredded cheese – 1 1/2 cups total, divided (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
• Heavy cream – 1/4 cup for thinning the sauce
• Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon
• Onion powder – 1/2 teaspoon
• Smoked paprika – 1/2 teaspoon
• Salt and pepper – to taste
• Optional: cooked bacon bits or chopped green onions for topping

If you want another fun spin on cheesy chicken bakes, try this cozy chicken Parmesan casserole too. It is great when you want a tomato kick and melty mozzarella vibes.

Chicken Options: Breast, Thighs, or Rotisserie

You can use any cooked chicken here. I often shred rotisserie chicken when I am in a hurry. If you prefer juicier bites, use boneless thighs. For a leaner option, go with chicken breast. The sauce keeps even breast meat tender.
Tip: If cooking chicken from scratch, season lightly with salt and pepper, bake at 400 F for 20 to 25 minutes, then shred.

Creamy Base Ingredients: Mayo, Cream Cheese, Cheese

The trio of mayo, cream cheese, and shredded cheese is what gives this casserole that signature creaminess. Mayo adds richness and a little tang. Cream cheese thickens and smooths the sauce. Shredded cheese melts and ties everything together.
Use full-fat versions for the best texture. If your cream cheese is cold, soften it in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds so it blends easily.

Seasonings That Add Flavor Without Carbs

Lean on pantry spices that pack flavor with zero carbs. I like garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for gentle heat. A squeeze of lemon at the end brightens the whole dish.
Fresh herbs make a big difference. Chives or parsley sprinkled over the top give a fresh finish and a pop of color.

Ingredient Substitutions and Swaps

No broccoli on hand? Use cauliflower or green beans. Do dairy-free? Try a dairy-free cream cheese and a coconut cream splash instead of heavy cream. Reduce the mayo and add Greek yogurt if you want a higher protein boost with a little tang.
For a different spin, I sometimes swap in mushrooms and spinach. If you enjoy heartier casseroles, check out the comfort-loaded million dollar chicken casserole for another indulgent idea.

Best Cheese Substitutes for Keto Diets

Good melters include mozzarella, Monterey Jack, Gouda, and provolone. For sharper flavor, use cheddar or a bit of Parmesan. If you do not tolerate cow dairy, try goat cheese crumbles blended with a mild sheep milk cheese for melting.
Mixing two cheeses often tastes best: one for melt and stretch, one for flavor punch. A 70-30 split works well.

Vegetable Swaps for Broccoli

Broccoli is classic, but you can rotate veggies for what is in your fridge. Cauliflower, zucchini, asparagus, or a spinach and mushroom combo all work well. Just keep an eye on moisture. Zucchini should be salted and patted dry so the sauce stays thick.
Roasted vegetables bring extra flavor. Roast cauliflower or broccoli at 425 F for 15 minutes before baking the casserole if you want a deeper taste.

How to Make Low Carb Chicken Casserole

Oven temperature and timing

Preheat the oven to 375 F. Grease a 9×13 baking dish. Mix the sauce, fold in chicken and vegetables, top with cheese, and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until bubbly and golden at the edges.
For a similar comforting bake with a cozy onion twist, I also love this French onion chicken orzo casserole when I am not keeping things low carb.

Prep the Chicken and Vegetables

Steam or microwave broccoli until crisp-tender. You want it slightly underdone since it finishes in the oven. Drain any excess water. Shred or chop the cooked chicken into bite-size pieces so every scoop has a good mix.
Try to keep everything roughly similar in size for even baking. It makes each bite balanced and satisfying.

Make the Creamy Keto Sauce

Blend softened cream cheese, mayo, heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust. If your sauce is too thick, add another splash of cream. If it is too thin, add a little more cream cheese.
Fold the chicken and broccoli into the sauce. Scatter 1 cup of shredded cheese through the mix, then add the remaining 1/2 cup on top.

Step-by-Step Cooking Tips for Best Results

Do not overcook the broccoli at the start. Slight crunch keeps the final texture from going mushy. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking so the sauce sets. Sprinkle fresh herbs or crisp bacon on top for texture and pop.
If you enjoy slow simmered comfort on busy days, my family also loves this easy slow cooker chicken stew. It is hearty and great for make-ahead nights.

Nutritional Breakdown and Net Carbs

How to calculate net carbs

Net carbs are total carbs minus fiber and sugar alcohols. This casserole gets most of its carbs from broccoli and dairy. A typical serving lands in a very friendly range for low carb eating, especially if you stick to a 9×13 pan divided into 6 to 8 portions.
As always, numbers vary by brands and portions, so double check with a calculator if you track closely.

Calories, Protein, Fat, and Net Carbs

For 1 of 8 servings, an estimate looks like this: 340 to 390 calories, 25 to 30 grams of protein, 24 to 28 grams of fat, and about 4 to 6 net carbs. If you add bacon, butter, or extra cheese, the fat and calories will rise a bit, while carbs usually stay low.

Why This Recipe Works for Keto and Low Carb Lifestyles

This dish keeps carbs low by leaning on protein and fat and skipping starchy thickeners. It is also very filling, which makes it easier to stay on track without feeling deprived. You can change the veggies and seasoning to keep it fresh week after week.
It is also flexible for family needs. Serve a buttered noodle or rice side for anyone not eating low carb, and everyone is happy at the same table.

Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Casserole Variation

Want a bit more crunch and body? Stir in a handful of chopped, cooked bacon or slivered almonds. Replace part of the cheddar with mozzarella for a milder pull. A squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of Parmesan on top at the end gives a bright, savory finish.
If you need a rice-style version for mixed eaters, check out this balanced chicken and rice casserole and serve yours without the rice.

Flavor Variations to Try

Shortcut ideas

Southwest: Add green chiles, cumin, and pepper jack cheese. Italian: Stir in chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Ranch: Mix 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning into the sauce and top with bacon.
Keep notes on what your family likes so you can rotate flavors and keep dinner interesting.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Casserole

For a garlicky version, double the garlic powder and swap some cheddar for Parmesan. Add chopped spinach and a dash of Italian seasoning. Finish with extra Parmesan for a salty, toasty top that pairs well with roasted broccoli or a simple salad.

Buffalo Chicken Low Carb Casserole

Stir 2 to 3 tablespoons of buffalo sauce into the creamy base and use Monterey Jack or mozzarella. Top with blue cheese crumbles or drizzle ranch over the top. It adds a little heat and tang that really wakes up leftovers too.
If you love a little kick, this spicy southern chicken spaghetti casserole is a fun twist for a treat night.

Make It Ahead and Meal Prep Tips

Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. Let it sit on the counter while the oven preheats so it is not going in ice cold. For work lunches, portion into meal prep containers and add a side of roasted veggies.
Portion control is your friend here. The casserole is rich, so smaller servings still satisfy.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Reheating in microwave or oven

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. For the microwave, heat gently in 45 to 60 second bursts and stir to keep the sauce smooth. For the oven, cover with foil and warm at 325 F for 12 to 15 minutes.
If the sauce tightens, splash in a little cream to loosen. Stir and heat again just until creamy.

Freezing Low Carb Chicken Casserole

Freeze baked casseroles once cooled for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat covered at 325 F until hot. Dairy sauces can separate if overheated, so go low and slow.
If you freeze in portions, you can grab a single serving for quick lunches that stay on track.

Serving Suggestions for Low Carb Meals

• Simple green salad with olive oil and lemon
• Roasted asparagus or zucchini
• Cauliflower mash with butter
• Sauteed mushrooms with garlic
• Cucumber tomato salad with feta

When I want a fresh chicken dinner that still fits low carb, these air fryer chicken mozzarella wraps are another favorite. They are light, cheesy, and fast.

What to Serve With Chicken Casserole on Keto

Serve with a crisp salad, roasted green beans, or cauliflower rice. A side of buttery sauteed cabbage is also amazing and takes minutes. If you want a crowd-pleasing meal, add a platter of cherry tomatoes and cucumbers with ranch for dipping.

Low Carb Side Dish Ideas

Cauliflower rice with herbs, oven roasted Brussels sprouts, or garlicky spinach work well. For a fresh twist, try a lemony kale salad with shaved Parmesan. If you are feeding mixed eaters, keep a pot of buttered noodles on the side for anyone who wants carbs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Do not add watery vegetables without draining. It can thin the sauce. Do not overcook the broccoli during prep. Slight crunch holds up better in the oven. Do not skip seasoning. A pinch more salt and a squeeze of lemon at the end brighten the whole pan.
Also, do not pack the dish too deep. A shallow 9×13 gives the best bubbling, melty top. For more casserole comfort, I also enjoy this classic low carb chicken casserole variation when I want a slightly different spice profile.

Common Questions

Can I use frozen broccoli? Yes. Thaw and drain well, then pat dry so the sauce stays thick and creamy.
How do I keep the sauce from separating? Heat gently, avoid boiling, and let the casserole rest a few minutes after baking. Stir in a splash of cream if reheating.
What cheese melts best? Mozzarella and Monterey Jack for melt, cheddar for flavor. A mix gives great texture and taste.
Can I make this dairy-free? Use dairy-free cream cheese, coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and a dairy-free shredded cheese that melts well.
How do I add more protein? Add extra chicken or stir in a scoop of unflavored whey isolate to the sauce for a subtle boost.

A cozy finish for your weeknight table

This Low Carb Chicken Casserole is proof that comfort food can fit your goals. It is creamy, rich, and easy to tweak with what you have. Keep the steps simple, season boldly, and let the oven do the work. If you want even more ideas, you can browse this helpful guide from That Low Carb Life for extra inspiration. I hope this becomes one of those recipes you make on repeat and everyone cheers when they see it coming to the table.

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