If you’re searching for a hearty, satisfying dish that’s low in carbs and big on comfort, look no further. This Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, protein-packed meal that comes together with minimal effort. Whether you’re following a keto diet or simply want a healthier twist on comfort food, this dish will be a staple in your kitchen.
This casserole was inspired by the dishes my Italian-American grandmother would make—layered, cheesy, and always made with love. I’ve modernized it to fit a low-carb lifestyle while keeping all the flavor you expect from a traditional baked chicken casserole.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole
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Low in carbs, high in flavor: Just 5g net carbs per serving
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One-dish wonder: Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep
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Creamy and satisfying: Made with a rich cheese sauce and juicy chicken
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Customizable: Add your favorite keto veggies or mix up the cheeses
Ingredients
For 4 servings:
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2 large chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs), cooked and shredded
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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4 oz cream cheese, softened
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1/2 cup sour cream
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1/4 cup heavy cream
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1/2 teaspoon onion powder
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1/2 teaspoon paprika
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
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1/2 cup cooked bacon, chopped (optional but recommended)
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Optional: 1 cup steamed broccoli or spinach
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Optional garnish: Fresh parsley or chives
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease an 8×8-inch casserole dish.
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Cook and Shred Chicken: If using raw chicken, cook it in olive oil over medium heat until fully cooked through (7–10 minutes per side). Let cool slightly, then shred using two forks. You can also use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken for ease.
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Prepare Cheese Sauce:
In a saucepan over low heat, sauté minced garlic in olive oil for 30 seconds. Add the cream cheese and stir until smooth. Mix in sour cream, heavy cream, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined and creamy. -
Assemble the Casserole:
In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, steamed vegetables (if using), and the cheese sauce. Mix well to coat everything evenly. Transfer to the prepared baking dish and smooth the top. -
Top with Cheese and Bacon:
Sprinkle mozzarella, parmesan, and bacon (if using) evenly over the top. -
Bake:
Place in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden-brown top, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end. -
Rest and Serve:
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Tips and Substitutions
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Vegetables: Add cauliflower rice, chopped spinach, or zucchini to bulk it up without the carbs.
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Cheese Swap: Try cheddar, gouda, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor.
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Spice It Up: Add a dash of cayenne or crushed red pepper for a little kick.
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Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole a day ahead and bake when ready to serve.
Storage & Reheating
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Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Freezer: Freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
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Reheat: Microwave or reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
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Serving Size: 1/4 of casserole
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Calories: 480
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Fat: 34g
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Saturated Fat: 18g
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Unsaturated Fat: 14g
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Trans Fat: 0g
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Carbohydrates: 5g
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Fiber: 1g
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Net Carbs: 4g
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Protein: 36g
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Cholesterol: 115mg
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Sodium: 580mg
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Sugar: 1g
FAQs
Can I use canned chicken?
Yes, just make sure it’s drained well and shredded for the best texture.
Can I make this dairy-free?
You can experiment with dairy-free cheese and sour cream alternatives, though it may change the texture.
Is it kid-friendly?
Absolutely. The cheesy texture and mild seasoning make it a hit even with picky eaters.
Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, satisfying dinner made with juicy shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, and crispy bacon, all baked in a rich cheese sauce. Perfect for keto, low-carb, or gluten-free diets, it’s a simple and delicious one-dish meal the whole family will love.
Ingredients
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2 large chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs), cooked and shredded
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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4 oz cream cheese, softened
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1/2 cup sour cream
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1/4 cup heavy cream
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1/2 teaspoon onion powder
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1/2 teaspoon paprika
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
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1/2 cup cooked bacon, chopped
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1 cup steamed broccoli florets
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Optional garnish: Fresh parsley or chives
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch casserole dish.
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Cook and shred the chicken if not using pre-cooked. In a skillet, heat olive oil and cook chicken until done, about 7–10 minutes per side. Let rest, then shred.
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Prepare cheese sauce: In a saucepan, sauté garlic in olive oil, then stir in cream cheese until melted. Add sour cream, heavy cream, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
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Mix together: In a bowl, combine shredded chicken, broccoli, and cheese sauce. Stir to coat well.
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Assemble: Spread the mixture into the casserole dish. Top with mozzarella, parmesan, and crumbled bacon.
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Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden. Broil for 2–3 minutes for a crisp top.
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Rest and serve: Let cool slightly. Garnish with parsley or chives before serving.
Notes
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Substitute cheddar or gouda for mozzarella for a new flavor profile.
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Can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking.
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Use rotisserie or canned chicken to save time.
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Add chili flakes or jalapeños for a spicy twist.
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- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: 4 servings
- Method: Main Dish, Casserole
- Cuisine: Baking
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of casserole
- Calories: 485
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 19g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 38g
Keywords: easy low carb chicken casserole, keto chicken bake, cheesy chicken broccoli casserole