If you’re craving a weeknight dinner that’s both wholesome and incredibly satisfying, look no further than this Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole. Packed with juicy chicken, vibrant veggies, and a cheesy, creamy sauce, this casserole brings comfort without the carb overload—perfect for those looking to keep things light yet still indulge in flavor. Whether you’re meal prepping or feeding a hungry family, this dish delivers on all fronts, becoming an instant favorite after just one bite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The list for Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is refreshingly straightforward. Each ingredient is chosen for the rich flavors, appealing texture, and beautiful pops of color it brings to the dish. Assemble these pantry staples and fresh items, and you’ll have a craveable meal on the table in no time.
- Olive oil: For browning the chicken and sauteing the veggies, giving everything depth and a lovely sheen.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Tender, lean, and perfect for soaking up that creamy, cheesy goodness.
- Onion: Adds aromatic sweetness and extra savory flavor in every bite.
- Garlic: Brings a warm and earthy punch that elevates the whole casserole.
- Broccoli: Offers not only a nutrition boost but beautiful green color and fantastic texture.
- Zucchini: A delicate, mild veggie that softens in the oven and blends into the creamy sauce.
- Sour cream: Lends rich tang and a luxuriously creamy backdrop for the flavors.
- Mayonnaise: Adds body and helps the casserole stay moist without feeling heavy.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: For melty, gooey pulls of cheese throughout the casserole.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Brings salty, sharp notes and helps form that irresistible crusty topping.
- Paprika: Adds a subtle warmth and an inviting golden color to the bake.
- Dried thyme: Offers a woodsy, fragrant note that complements the chicken.
- Salt and black pepper: For brightening and balancing all the flavors.
- Crushed pork rinds or almond flour (optional): Provides a toasty, low carb crunch on top for those who love a little texture.
How to Make Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole
Step 1: Sauté Your Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so you’re set up for a perfectly cooked casserole. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chunks of chicken and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re browned and cooked through. This step locks in the flavors and ensures every piece is juicy and full of taste. Once the chicken is done, transfer it to a plate and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Aromatics and Veggies
Don’t wipe out the skillet—you want those browned bits for maximum flavor! Add the chopped onion and minced garlic next, sautéing gently for 2 to 3 minutes until everything is fragrant and just softened. Toss in the broccoli florets and zucchini slices, giving them a 5-minute sauté so they become vibrant and slightly tender, but not mushy. This keeps the veggies bright and just a bit crisp for your casserole.
Step 3: Mix Up the Creamy Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, shredded cheddar, Parmesan, paprika, thyme, and a touch of salt and black pepper. Stir well until you have a smooth, creamy mixture that smells absolutely dreamy. This magical combo is what transforms your basic casserole into a velvety, cheesy masterpiece.
Step 4: Assemble Everything Together
Add the cooked chicken and sautéed vegetables into the bowl with your sauce. Stir until every morsel is coated in that creamy blend. This is where the casserole really comes together—each piece of chicken and every veggie becomes enveloped in flavor, promising a bite packed with taste and comfort.
Step 5: Fill Your Baking Dish and Add Crunch
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, then spread your chicken and veggie mixture in an even layer. Sprinkle the top with crushed pork rinds or almond flour if you love a little crunch. This step is totally optional, but it lends a golden, crispy topping that’s hard to resist in any Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
Slide the casserole into your waiting oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. The cheese will melt and bubble, and the topping will turn a delicate golden color. Once it’s out of the oven, let it rest for about 5 minutes—this makes it easier to slice and serve, and lets all those delicious flavors settle perfectly together.
How to Serve Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole
Garnishes
If you want to take your Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole over the top, sprinkle on some chopped fresh parsley, green onions, or a little more grated Parmesan just before serving. These simple garnishes add color and a burst of fresh flavor that really brightens the dish.
Side Dishes
This casserole is super-robust, but pairs beautifully with light, crisp sides like a tangy mixed green salad, sautéed green beans, or a simple tomato cucumber salad. For extra comfort, try serving it with cauliflower rice or mashed cauliflower—both keep things low carb and soak up the creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Try spooning the casserole into individual ramekins for personalized servings that look adorable at a dinner party or potluck. You can also use it as a filling in hollowed-out bell peppers for a colorful, hand-held meal, or serve with lettuce wraps for a fresh, crunchy twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This dish holds up incredibly well in the fridge, staying moist and flavorful for up to 4 days. Simply wrap the casserole dish tightly with foil or transfer leftovers to an airtight container to keep everything fresh and ready for your next meal.
Freezing
Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is a freezer’s best friend. Allow it to cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers. It’ll keep for up to three months, making it a fantastic candidate for batch cooking and future quick dinners.
Reheating
You can reheat individual portions in the microwave for a couple of minutes (cover to avoid splatters), or warm larger quantities in the oven at 350°F until heated through. The casserole stays creamy and delicious, even after reheating, and maintains its fantastic texture.
FAQs
Can I make Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap the sour cream and mayonnaise for your favorite dairy-free versions, and use non-dairy cheese alternatives. The final texture will still be creamy and luscious, letting you enjoy all the flavor without the dairy.
Is it possible to use rotisserie or pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, using rotisserie or leftover roasted chicken makes this casserole even quicker. Just chop it into bite-sized pieces and add directly to the creamy mixture with the veggies—no extra skillet time needed.
What veggies can I substitute for broccoli and zucchini?
Feel free to get creative! Cauliflower florets, spinach, or even bell peppers all taste fantastic in Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole. Just make sure you adjust the cooking time slightly if using softer greens like spinach (add them at the end so they don’t overcook).
Does the topping really need pork rinds or almond flour?
Nope! The topping is entirely optional, but adds a fun crunch and a finished look. If you skip it, the casserole is still deeply flavorful and creamy. For nut-free households, omit both and just enjoy the cheese topping as is.
Can I make Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole ahead for meal prep?
This dish was made for meal prep! Assemble the casserole up to the baking point, cover, and refrigerate for up to two days. When ready to eat, add the crunchy topping and bake fresh—dinner will be ready in a snap.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing like the comfort and joy of sharing an Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole with the people you love. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a laid-back weekend, this recipe brings everyone to the table with its irresistible flavors and creamy, satisfying texture. Give it a whirl for your next dinner—you just might discover your new go-to casserole!
Print
Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 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, vibrant veggies, and creamy cheeses, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that happens to be low carb and gluten-free.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 small onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 medium head of broccoli (cut into florets)
- 1 medium zucchini (sliced)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup crushed pork rinds or almond flour (for topping, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add onion and garlic, cooking for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant. Add the broccoli and zucchini, sautéing for 5 minutes until slightly tender.
- Prepare the casserole: In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir in the cooked chicken and vegetables until well coated. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle with crushed pork rinds or almond flour if using.
- Bake: Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can swap the broccoli and zucchini for cauliflower or spinach.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños.
- This casserole reheats well and is great for meal prep.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
