When you’re craving something hearty, comforting, and perfectly healthy all at once, this Low Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe is the answer you never knew you needed. It combines tender shredded chicken with vibrant broccoli and cauliflower rice, all smothered in a cheesy, creamy sauce that hits every satisfying note. What makes this dish stand out is not just how simple it is to make, but how each bite bursts with flavor while keeping things low carb and light. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or seeking a quick family dinner, this casserole is pure cozy goodness that never disappoints.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Low Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe lies in its straightforward, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building layers of texture, taste, and vibrant color that make the dish so inviting and satisfying.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Provides tender, protein-rich base that makes the casserole filling and satisfying.
- 1 cup broccoli florets: Adds a pop of green and crunch, delivering nutrition and freshness.
- 1 cup cauliflower rice: Keeps things low carb while offering a subtle, rice-like texture.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully, creating a rich, gooey top layer that every casserole craves.
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened: Adds creamy depth and helps bind all ingredients perfectly.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Keeps the casserole moist and infuses savory flavor throughout.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a gentle punch of aromatic, savory goodness.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances flavor complexity effortlessly.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Balances and brightens all the elements.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds warmth and a subtle smoky hint.
How to Make Low Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready by the time you assemble the casserole, so everything cooks evenly and the cheese melts to that perfect golden finish.
Step 2: Combine the Main Ingredients
Grab a large mixing bowl and toss together the shredded chicken, broccoli florets, cauliflower rice, shredded cheddar cheese, and softened cream cheese. Mixing these first helps the creamy elements incorporate evenly, turning the casserole into a luscious, cohesive dish.
Step 3: Add Seasonings and Broth
Pour in the chicken broth, then sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika over the mixture. Stir thoroughly until the ingredients are well combined and the seasonings are fully integrated. This is the magic moment where flavor really starts to bloom.
Step 4: Transfer to Casserole Dish
Grease your casserole dish lightly to prevent sticking, then pour your mixture in and spread it out evenly. This step sets the stage for even cooking and ensures that every bite will have a harmonious blend of ingredients.
Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly
Place the dish in your oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when you see bubbling around the edges and the cheese has melted into a beautiful, golden layer that’s irresistible.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for a few minutes. This cooling time helps the mixture set slightly, making it easier to serve and allowing all the flavors to settle and meld together perfectly.
How to Serve Low Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Low Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe, try topping it with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of green onions. These simple garnishes not only add a kick of color but also a bright, fresh taste that balances the rich, creamy casserole beautifully.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines as a main course but pairs wonderfully with crisp salads or roasted vegetables on the side. A simple arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or some sautéed green beans can bring contrasting textures and lightness to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd or special occasion, consider serving this Low Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins. They make for charming, personalized servings and can help with portion control. You can also sprinkle extra cheese on top before baking for a crowd-pleasing golden crust.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover casserole should be allowed to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days, keeping the flavors intact and the texture delicious for quick reheat meals.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this casserole freezes beautifully. Cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but warming slowly in the oven helps retain the casserole’s textures and creamy goodness.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked chicken?
Using cooked chicken is recommended for convenience and even cooking. However, if you want to use raw chicken, cook it thoroughly before mixing with other ingredients to ensure the casserole cooks evenly.
Is this recipe suitable for keto diets?
Absolutely! This Low Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe uses low carb ingredients like cauliflower rice and broccoli, making it a fantastic keto-friendly dinner option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Can I substitute the cheddar cheese?
Yes! Feel free to swap cheddar with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even gouda for different flavor profiles while keeping that melty, cheesy appeal.
What can I add to make this casserole spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate some chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix. Smoked paprika can also give a smoky kick without overwhelming the dish.
How can I make this dish more vegetable-packed?
You can easily add more veggies like chopped spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Just be mindful of moisture content to avoid a soggy casserole—precooking some vegetables may help.
Final Thoughts
This Low Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe is an absolute game-changer for anyone craving comfort food without the carb overload. It’s simple, delicious, and adaptable, making it one of those dishes you’ll want to keep in your recipe arsenal. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend treat, you’re going to love how this casserole brings warmth and satisfaction to your table. Give it a try soon—you might just find your new favorite go-to meal!
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Low Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4.4 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
This Low Carb Chicken Casserole is a hearty and delicious meal perfect for those looking to keep their carb intake low. Combining shredded cooked chicken with nutritious broccoli, cauliflower rice, and a blend of creamy and cheesy ingredients, it bakes to a golden, bubbly perfection that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup cauliflower rice
Dairy & Cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
Liquids & Seasoning
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the casserole evenly.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix together the shredded cooked chicken, broccoli florets, cauliflower rice, shredded cheddar cheese, and softened cream cheese until well incorporated.
- Add Seasonings and Broth: Pour in the chicken broth, then add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly to distribute the flavors evenly throughout the mixture.
- Transfer to Casserole Dish: Grease a casserole dish lightly to prevent sticking and pour the combined mixture evenly into the dish.
- Bake Casserole: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The casserole is done when it becomes bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes after baking to let it set slightly before serving. This helps the casserole hold together better on plates.
Notes
- You can substitute the broccoli florets with other low-carb vegetables like spinach or zucchini if preferred.
- Using cauliflower rice helps keep the dish low in carbohydrates while adding volume and texture.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.
- For a spicier version, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes.
