Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole – Rich, Cheesy, and Keto-Friendly Comfort Food

Craving comfort food without the carb overload? This Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is everything you love about cozy, cheesy bakes—just lighter on carbs and big on flavor. Packed with tender shredded chicken, savory vegetables, and a luscious cream cheese sauce, this one-dish wonder is gluten-free, family-friendly, and perfect for meal prep.

Whether you’re following a keto diet, reducing carbs for health, or simply looking for a satisfying dinner that won’t leave you feeling weighed down, this casserole checks every box.

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The Appeal of Low Carb Casseroles

Low carb casseroles are a favorite for good reason: they’re hearty, easy to make ahead, and perfect for feeding a crowd or freezing for later. This particular version ditches pasta and rice in favor of fiber-rich veggies and protein-packed chicken, held together by a velvety, seasoned cream sauce and topped with golden bubbly cheese.

It’s inspired by classic American casseroles (think: chicken divan or chicken and rice) but updated to suit today’s health-conscious eaters without sacrificing taste or texture.

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Ingredient Breakdown – What You Need & Why It Works

Shredded Cooked Chicken (3 cups)

A great way to use up rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted chicken. It’s lean, versatile, and soaks up the sauce perfectly.

Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened)

Creates a thick, creamy base without the need for flour or starches. It adds tanginess and helps bind the ingredients together.

Sour Cream (½ cup)

Adds richness and a slight tang while helping to smooth out the cream cheese.

Mayonnaise (¼ cup)

Boosts the creaminess without making the dish overly heavy. It also adds depth and body to the sauce.

Cheddar Cheese (1½ cups, shredded)

Melts beautifully and gives that signature cheesy casserole finish. Use sharp cheddar for maximum flavor.

Parmesan Cheese (¼ cup, grated)

Adds saltiness and nutty depth to the cheesy topping.

Broccoli Florets (2 cups, steamed or lightly blanched)

Low in carbs and high in fiber, broccoli adds texture, nutrition, and color to the casserole.

Cauliflower (1 cup, steamed and chopped)

Acts as a perfect low carb substitute for pasta or rice—mild, tender, and satisfying.

Garlic Powder & Onion Powder (½ tsp each)

Adds savory depth without extra carbs.

Dried Thyme or Italian Seasoning (½ tsp)

Adds herbal notes that balance the richness of the cheese and cream.

Salt & Pepper (to taste)

Enhances and balances all the flavors.

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How to Make Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole – Step-by-Step

This casserole is incredibly easy and comes together in under an hour from start to finish.

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole pan with butter or nonstick spray.

Step 2: Steam or Blanch Vegetables

• Steam or lightly blanch the broccoli and cauliflower until just tender.

• Drain and pat dry with paper towels to avoid a watery casserole.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

• Softened cream cheese

• Sour cream

• Mayonnaise

• Garlic powder

• Onion powder

• Dried thyme

• Salt and pepper

Stir until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Add Chicken and Veggies

• Fold in the shredded chicken, broccoli, and cauliflower until well coated in the sauce.

• Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

• Pour the mixture into your greased baking dish.

• Spread evenly and top with remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese and the Parmesan.

Step 6: Bake

• Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.

• Broil for the last 2–3 minutes if you want a golden, crispy top.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

• Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set.

• Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a pop of freshness.

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Variations, Substitutions, and Pro Tips

This recipe is endlessly customizable. Here’s how to tailor it to your tastes or pantry:

Variations

• Bacon Upgrade: Stir in ½ cup cooked, crumbled bacon for smoky flavor.

• Spicy Kick: Add 1–2 tablespoons of diced green chiles or a dash of cayenne.

• Buffalo Style: Replace half the mayo with buffalo sauce and top with blue cheese crumbles.

Ingredient Substitutions

• Vegetables: Use spinach, kale, mushrooms, zucchini, or green beans.

• Cheese: Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère for different flavor profiles.

• Dairy-Free: Use almond-based cream cheese and dairy-free cheese alternatives.

Tips for Success

• Avoid watery veggies: Always steam, drain, and pat dry any vegetables to prevent sogginess.

• Use full-fat dairy: It helps the sauce stay creamy and rich.

• Make ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then bake as directed.

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What to Serve with Low Carb Chicken Casserole

This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but here are a few perfect low carb pairings:

Great Side Ideas:

• Side salad: A crisp Caesar or spinach salad balances the richness.

• Roasted green beans or asparagus: Simple and nutrient-dense.

• Cloud bread or keto garlic bread: For that extra comfort-food touch.

Occasions to Serve It:

• Meal prep: Portion into containers and reheat all week.

• Family dinners: Even picky eaters love it.

• Potlucks or parties: It’s crowd-pleasing, easy to transport, and reheats well.

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Nutrition & Health Benefits

This casserole is a fantastic example of low-carb doesn’t mean low flavor.

• High protein: Chicken and cheese provide excellent satiety and muscle-building nutrients.

• Low glycemic: No pasta or rice means better blood sugar control.

• Keto-approved: All ingredients are high-fat, low-carb, and satisfying.

• Gluten-free: Naturally free of grains and gluten without needing specialty products.

Looking to lower calories slightly? Use part-skim cheese and light sour cream or Greek yogurt.

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FAQ – Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole

1. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes! Let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F.

2. Can I make it with raw chicken?

This recipe is designed for pre-cooked chicken. If using raw, cook it separately first by roasting or poaching, then shred and proceed.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.

4. Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes. Use dairy-free cream cheese, sour cream, and shredded cheese. Coconut yogurt or cashew cream are good subs too.

5. Is it keto?

Yes! This recipe is naturally keto-friendly with low carbs, high fat, and moderate protein.

6. Can I add eggs to this casserole?

You can add 1–2 eggs to help bind the casserole more like a breakfast bake, but it’s not necessary.

7. What’s the best cheese for melting?

Sharp cheddar melts well and adds bold flavor. For even melt, use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-bagged.

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