I’ve created a simple, satisfying low-carb chicken casserole that’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor—without the carbs from bread or pasta. It’s an easy one-dish bake perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or make-ahead meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this casserole because it delivers comforting richness without compromising on nutrition. The creamy sauce blends beautifully with tender chicken and melty cheese, offering that cozy feel of comfort food but with fewer carbs. Plus, it comes together quickly and bakes with minimal effort—just one pan, and no fuss.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cooked and shredded
cream cheese, softened
sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella/pepper jack)
chopped vegetables: broccoli florets, cauliflower, spinach, or zucchini
garlic, minced
onion powder
salt and black pepper
olive oil or butter (for sautéing)
optional: chopped bacon or cooked mushrooms for extra flavor

directions

Preheat and prepare:
I preheat my oven to 350 °F (175 °C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
Cook and shred chicken (if not already done):
I cook chicken breasts or thighs seasoned with salt and pepper (by baking, boiling, or sautéing), let them cool slightly, then shred.
Sauté garlic and veggies:
In a skillet, I heat olive oil (or butter) and sauté minced garlic briefly. I add chopped broccoli, cauliflower, zucchini, or spinach, and cook 3–4 minutes until just tender.
Make the creamy mixture:
I transfer veggies into a large bowl, then stir in cream cheese, sour cream (or yogurt), half of the shredded cheese, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Combine with chicken:
I fold shredded chicken into the creamy mixture, ensuring even distribution.
Bake:
I pour everything into the greased baking dish and top with the remaining cheese. If I’m using bacon or mushrooms, I sprinkle them on top. I bake 20–25 minutes, until the casserole is bubbling and the cheese is golden.
Serve:
I let it rest 5 minutes before serving—this helps it set and makes scooping easier.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4–6, depending on portion size
Prep time: ~15 minutes (plus any chicken-cooking time)
Cook time: 20–25 minutes
Total time: Around 40 minutes

Variations

I swap cheddar for pepper jack or feta for different flavor profiles.
I add green onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the veggie mix.
I stir in spinach or kale for extra greens.
I make it dairy-free by using coconut cream or dairy-free cream cheese and yogurt.
I loosen the casserole with a bit of chicken broth if I prefer a less dense texture.

storage/reheating

Refrigeration: I store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: I reheat individual portions in a microwave or oven at 350 °F for 8–10 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Freezing: I freeze the casserole (before baking) in a freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months. To bake, I thaw overnight and bake for about 30–35 minutes until warmed through and golden.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes—I assemble the casserole ahead and refrigerate (unbaked). I bake it later, adding an extra 5–10 minutes to the time if it’s cold.

How can I reduce dairy?

I replace sour cream with plain Greek yogurt and use light cream cheese or omit it entirely, adding extra chicken broth for creaminess.

Is it gluten-free?

Absolutely—this casserole is naturally gluten-free when I use gluten-free seasonings and check all ingredient labels.

What side dishes go well with it?

I serve it with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed greens for a complete, nutrient-rich meal.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Definitely—I shred store-bought rotisserie chicken for a quick, flavor-packed shortcut.

Conclusion

I adore this Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole because it’s comforting, simple, and perfectly suited for a low-carb lifestyle. It’s creamy, cheesy, and filled with wholesome ingredients—without the guilt. Whether I’m meal prepping or cooking for family, it’s always a hit that feels cozy and satisfying.