If you are craving a hearty, comforting meal that is both satisfying and fits perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle, this Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to! Combining tender shredded chicken with vibrant broccoli and a luscious, cheesy cream sauce, every bite delivers warmth and richness without the carb overload. It’s the ideal dish for busy weeknights when you want something simple, yet impressively delicious, and it wonderfully suits keto diets or anyone looking to keep things on the lighter side without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that effortlessly come together for a taste sensation. Each component serves a purpose, from the protein-packed chicken to the creamy dairy elements and the fresh pop of green from broccoli, making this dish wholesome and deeply flavorful.
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken: Tender, ready-to-go protein forms the hearty base of the casserole.
- 1 cup broccoli florets: Adds a fresh crunch and vibrant color, balancing richness with a nutritious boost.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully to create that irresistible golden topping everyone adores.
- ½ cup cream cheese: Infuses the sauce with creamy decadence and silky texture.
- ½ cup heavy cream: Offers extra richness and helps bind the flavors together.
- ½ tsp garlic powder: Provides a subtle savory depth without overpowering the dish.
- ½ tsp paprika: Adds gentle warmth and a hint of smoky color.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that elevate every bite.
How to Make Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Sauce
Begin by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready once your casserole is assembled. In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, heavy cream, garlic powder, paprika, and salt and pepper. This blend creates the rich, velvety sauce base that will coat the chicken and broccoli, ensuring every spoonful is creamy and bursting with flavor.
Step 2: Combine Chicken and Broccoli
Next, gently fold in the cooked shredded chicken and fresh broccoli florets into the cream mixture. This not only distributes the sauce evenly but also tips the balance toward a perfect combination of protein and vegetables, keeping the casserole both hearty and healthy.
Step 3: Transfer to Baking Dish
Grease a baking dish to prevent sticking, then pour the entire mixture inside. Spreading it out evenly in the dish helps it cook consistently and guarantees that every serving has the right mix of creamy sauce, chicken, and broccoli.
Step 4: Top with Cheese and Bake
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously on top of your casserole. Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the cheese melts into a bubbly, golden crust. This final step is key to adding a cheeseboard-worthy finish with crisp edges and gooey flavor.
How to Serve Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives can add a burst of color and a subtle fresh contrast to the richness of the casserole. A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can also introduce a gentle kick if you enjoy a touch of heat.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with light, crisp side salads or roasted low-carb vegetables such as asparagus or zucchini ribbons. These sides add texture and variety, complementing the creamy main dish without weighing down your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings or special dinners, serve individual portions in ramekins topped with extra cheese and garnished with microgreens. Alternatively, layer the casserole over cauliflower rice for an even more complete low-carb experience that impresses at any table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This casserole keeps exceptionally well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it perfect for next-day meals or quick reheats.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool the casserole completely before freezing to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain its creamy texture and crisp topping. For a quick fix, microwave reheating works too, but be mindful it might soften the cheese crust.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and drain frozen broccoli well before mixing it in to avoid excess water, which could make the casserole watery.
Is this recipe suitable for strict keto diets?
Yes, the Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe is ideal for keto as it emphasizes high fat, moderate protein, and low carbohydrates, especially when you use fresh or properly thawed vegetables.
Can I substitute the chicken with turkey or another protein?
You can definitely switch out chicken for shredded turkey or even cooked sausage for a twist; just adjust seasoning as needed to complement the meat’s flavor profile.
What can I add to make this dish more filling?
Adding extras like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even chopped nuts on top can boost both flavor and texture, making it satisfying for heartier appetites.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! This casserole contains no gluten ingredients, making it a safe and delicious choice for those avoiding gluten.
Final Thoughts
Sharing this Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe feels like handing you a warm, comforting hug in meal form. Its ease, flavor, and flexibility make it an absolute winner for anyone wanting a delicious meal that supports their low-carb or keto lifestyle. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to keep it in your regular rotation—because good food that feels like a treat and feeds your wellbeing is a true kitchen treasure!
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Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is a comforting and cheesy dinner featuring tender shredded chicken baked in a rich cream sauce with broccoli and cheddar cheese. This easy-to-make casserole is ideal for those following keto or low-carb diets seeking a hearty yet healthy meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Sauce Ingredients
- ½ cup cream cheese
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring it’s ready to bake the casserole evenly.
- Prepare the cream sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, heavy cream, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
- Combine ingredients: Stir in the cooked shredded chicken and broccoli florets into the cream sauce until everything is evenly coated.
- Transfer to baking dish: Grease a baking dish lightly and pour the chicken mixture into it, spreading it out evenly.
- Add cheese topping: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake the casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.
Notes
- Add spinach or mushrooms to the mixture for some extra vegetables and flavor variation.
- Using rotisserie chicken is a convenient shortcut that works great for this recipe.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
