If you’re on the lookout for a meal that checks all the boxes — easy, wholesome, and dinner-table approved — this Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is about to become your weeknight hero. Picture juicy chicken nestled among fresh vegetables, all bound together with a creamy, cheesy sauce that refuses to skimp on flavor. Every bite is packed with color, hearty textures, and that comforting warmth only a bubbling casserole can deliver. The best part? Minimal fuss and maximum payoff, whether you’re cooking for a busy family or prepping meals ahead. Let’s dig into this delicious classic reimagined for a low-carb lifestyle!
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the beautiful things about this Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is how simple yet impactful each ingredient is. Every element brings a unique flavor, essential texture, or pop of color that makes this dish delightfully satisfying. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:
- Cooked chicken breast (2 cups, shredded or chopped): The protein-packed foundation for this casserole, and a great way to use up leftovers or rotisserie chicken.
- Steamed broccoli florets (1 cup): Adds vibrant color and classic comfort, bringing gentle crunch and lots of nutrients.
- Chopped red bell pepper (1/2 cup): Sweet, slightly crisp, and full of bright color to liven up every forkful.
- Chopped zucchini (1/2 cup): Mild, tender, and a wonderful way to work extra veggies into the base.
- Chopped onion (1/4 cup): Aromatic and lively, a little goes a long way for savory depth.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Delivers those dreamy, melty cheese pulls and a golden, bubbly top.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Adds a nutty, salty layer that perfectly balances the creaminess.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Brings luxuriously smooth texture and tang that ties the sauce together.
- Mayonnaise (1/4 cup): The secret to an extra-silky sauce and rich undertones.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Adds subtle warmth and blends effortlessly into the sauce.
- Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Lends gentle smokiness and a hint of golden color.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Because every great dish needs perfectly balanced seasoning.
- Cooking spray or oil (for greasing): Ensures your casserole lifts out easily and never sticks to the dish.
How to Make Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F, and lightly grease an 8×8-inch (or similar size) baking dish with cooking spray or a small amount of oil. This simple step ensures your Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole lifts out without a hitch and gets that lovely baked edge.
Step 2: Chop and Combine Ingredients
Gather your cooked chicken, freshly steamed broccoli, and vibrant veggies. Chop everything into bite-size pieces for ultimate scoopability and even cooking. Then, in a large bowl, combine the chicken, broccoli, bell pepper, zucchini, onion, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until the veggies and chicken are generously coated in the creamy sauce.
Step 3: Add Cheese for Creamy Layers
Fold half of the shredded mozzarella and all the Parmesan cheese into your bowl. Give everything one last gentle toss so the cheeses weave their magic throughout the creamy filling. This step guarantees cheesy goodness in every bite of your Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole.
Step 4: Assemble in the Baking Dish
Pour your combined mixture into your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it into an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella over the top, creating a mouthwatering layer that’ll bake up gorgeously bubbly and golden.
Step 5: Bake to Bubbly Perfection
Slide your dish into the oven and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye out for that golden, cheesy crust and gently bubbling edges. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes so it sets just enough to serve up neat, satisfying portions.
How to Serve Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole
Garnishes
Shower your casserole with fresh chopped parsley, chives, or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan right before serving. These little touches add a fresh pop of color, subtle herbal flavor, and just the right amount of finish to each warm slice.
Side Dishes
Keep it light with a crisp green salad or some simple roasted veggies, making the Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole the star of the meal. For extra comfort, consider a side of cauliflower mash or sautéed spinach — still low enough in carbs to pair perfectly!
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your casserole in individual ramekins for a dinner party wow factor, or scoop hearty portions onto plates and garnish with a lemon wedge for brightness. If you’re meal prepping, pack into containers alongside your favorite low carb sides for grab-and-go lunches.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers keep brilliantly in the fridge for up to four days. Cool your casserole completely, then transfer to an airtight container. This dish is perfect for busy weeks since it tastes just as fabulous rewarmed as it does fresh from the oven.
Freezing
Want to make your Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole ahead? Assemble and freeze before baking for the best texture. Just wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then stash in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.
Reheating
To reheat, simply place your casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F until it’s heated through and the cheese is melty again, about 20 minutes for a whole casserole or 2–3 minutes in the microwave for individual portions. Add a fresh sprinkle of cheese on top if you’re after that just-baked finish.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables in this casserole?
Absolutely! Cauliflower, spinach, asparagus, or even mushrooms are all excellent low-carb alternatives you can swap in for the broccoli or zucchini. Just make sure to avoid extra watery veggies so your casserole stays creamy.
Is this casserole suitable for a keto diet?
Yes, this Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is keto-friendly as written, with its focus on protein, healthy fats, and minimal carbs from veggies and sauce. It’s a fantastic fit for keto and low-carb lifestyles alike.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Dairy-free variations are possible: use plant-based cheeses, coconut yogurt, or a vegan mayo alternative. The flavor will differ a little, but you’ll still get that creamy, casserole comfort.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Definitely — you can assemble everything in your baking dish up to a day ahead, then cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. It’s perfect for meal prepping busy weeks or stress-free entertaining.
What’s the best chicken to use?
Leftover roasted chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even pre-cooked turkey works beautifully in this recipe. The key is to chop or shred your meat so it blends evenly with the other ingredients.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend enough giving this Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole a spot on your dinner rotation. It’s cozy, customizable, and surprisingly quick to pull together, whether you’re cooking for family or treating yourself to a nourishing meal. Whip it up and watch how quickly it disappears from the table — you may want to make a double batch!
Print
Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a cozy night in. Packed with tender chicken, crisp veggies, and creamy cheeses, this casserole is a flavorful low-carb option that will please the whole family.
Ingredients
Chicken Casserole:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or chopped)
- 1 cup steamed broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped zucchini
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or oil for greasing
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the Casserole: In a large bowl, mix chicken, broccoli, bell pepper, zucchini, onion, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add half of mozzarella and all of Parmesan. Spread in dish.
- Add Cheese and Bake: Top with remaining mozzarella. Bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Rest and Serve: Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- This casserole is great for meal prep and reheats well.
- Leftover rotisserie chicken or turkey can be used.
- Cauliflower can be used instead of broccoli for variety.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
