Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe

Simple & Savory Low Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe

Crafting a delightful low carb chicken casserole sparks joy for health-conscious home cooks seeking delicious meals.

Weeknight dinners demand smart solutions that satisfy hunger without compromising nutrition.

Comfort food doesn’t mean abandoning wellness goals when creative recipes emerge.

Protein-packed ingredients combine seamlessly to create a mouthwatering dish that feels indulgent yet mindful.

Simple techniques transform ordinary chicken into a spectacular meal everyone appreciates.

Layers of flavor develop complexity with minimal effort, making this casserole a game-changing dinner option.

Jump into this culinary adventure and watch magic happen on your plate!

Ways to Customize Low Carb Chicken Casserole

  • Keto Comfort: A hearty casserole with alternative ingredients for various dietary needs.
  • Dairy-Free Version: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk, use dairy-free cheese alternatives like nutritional yeast or cashew cheese.
  • Vegetarian Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with firm tofu, tempeh, or plant-based chicken alternatives, keeping the creamy sauce and cauliflower base.
  • Mediterranean Makeover: Add sun-dried tomatoes, swap Dijon mustard for oregano, incorporate feta cheese, and sprinkle with chopped olives for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.
  • Spicy Kick Option: Include diced jalapeños, add cayenne pepper to the sauce, use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar, and top with sliced green onions for extra heat and zest.

FAQs About Low Carb Chicken Casserole

  • Is this recipe really low carb?

Yes, the recipe uses cauliflower instead of high-carb ingredients like pasta or rice, making it a perfect low-carb meal option that fits keto and low-carb diet plans.

  • Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! While the recipe suggests cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan, you can swap these with other low-moisture cheeses like Gruyère or Swiss to match your taste preferences.

  • What if I don't have heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with full-fat Greek yogurt or sour cream. These alternatives will maintain the creamy texture while keeping the dish low carb.

  • How can I add more protein to this dish?

Try adding cooked bacon bits, diced ham, or extra shredded chicken to increase the protein content. These additions will make the casserole even more filling and nutritious.

Reasons to Crave Low Carb Chicken Casserole

  • Enjoy a low-carb twist on classic comfort food that keeps you on track with your dietary goals while delivering maximum flavor and creamy goodness.
  • Impress family and friends with a dish that works brilliantly as a weeknight dinner, potluck contribution, or make-ahead meal that tastes just as amazing reheated.
  • Pack in protein from chicken, get veggie nutrition from cauliflower, and indulge in cheesy goodness while maintaining a low-carb approach to eating.

What Goes Into Low Carb Chicken Casserole

Main Protein:
  • Chicken: Lean protein that provides the main substance of the casserole, best when shredded and cooked beforehand.
Vegetable Base:
  • Cauliflower: Low-carb vegetable that creates a hearty base, provides texture and nutrition, works best when lightly steamed.
Creamy Sauce Components:
  • Butter: Adds richness and helps create smooth sauce texture.
  • Heavy Cream, Cream Cheese: Create a luxurious, thick base for the sauce, essential for low-carb creamy consistency.
  • Dijon Mustard: Provides subtle tangy flavor and depth to the sauce.
Seasoning Blend:
  • Garlic, Onion Powder, Paprika, Salt, Pepper: Classic seasoning combination that enhances overall flavor profile, adds warmth and complexity.
Cheese Topping:
  • Cheddar, Mozzarella, Parmesan Cheese: Melty cheese blend that creates golden, crispy top layer, adds rich flavor and protein.
Crunchy Garnish:
  • Pork Rinds, Almond Flour: Provides low-carb crispy texture, adds interesting crunch to the casserole surface.
  • Fresh Parsley: Bright herb that adds color and fresh flavor accent.

How to Make Low Carb Chicken Casserole

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Grab your baking dish and get the oven ready at 375F. Lightly coat the dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare Cauliflower

  • Break cauliflower into small florets
  • Steam or microwave until soft
  • Drain excess water completely

Step 3: Craft the Silky Sauce

In a saucepan, create a dreamy base:
  • Butter
  • Minced garlic
  • Heavy cream
  • Cream cheese
  • Dijon mustard
  • Onion powder
  • Paprika
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Whisk everything together until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, blend:
  • Shredded chicken
  • Cooked cauliflower
  • Creamy sauce

Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish.

Step 5: Cheese It Up

Sprinkle generously with:
  • Cheddar cheese
  • Mozzarella cheese
  • Parmesan cheese

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pop the dish into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese melts and turns golden.

Optional: Broil for 2-3 minutes for extra crispy top.

Step 7: Finishing Touches

Garnish with:
  • Crushed pork rinds
  • Chopped fresh parsley

Serve hot and enjoy your comforting low-carb meal!

Smart Tips for Low Carb Chicken Casserole

  • Drain Cauliflower Thoroughly: Pat steamed cauliflower completely dry with paper towels to prevent excess moisture from making the casserole watery and losing its creamy texture.
  • Customize Cheese Blend: Experiment with different cheese combinations like smoked gouda or sharp cheddar to enhance flavor profiles and keep the dish interesting for repeated meals.
  • Boost Protein Options: Swap chicken with rotisserie chicken, turkey, or even cooked shrimp for variety while maintaining the low-carb protein content of the recipe.
  • Meal Prep Like a Pro: Prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate overnight, allowing flavors to meld and making weeknight dinners super quick and convenient.
  • Add Herbal Freshness: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or chives to elevate the dish's aroma and provide an extra layer of sophisticated flavor without adding carbs.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Low Carb Chicken Casserole

  • Transfer leftover casserole to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
  • Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for 2-3 months. Separate into individual portions for easier reheating.
  • Place a single serving on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Stir between intervals to distribute heat evenly.
  • Preheat oven to 350F, cover the casserole with foil to prevent drying, and warm for 15-20 minutes. Remove foil during the last 5 minutes to restore cheese's crispy texture.

Pairing Ideas for Low Carb Chicken Casserole

  • Choose a Sauvignon Blanc or unoaked Chardonnay to complement the creamy, rich flavors of the chicken casserole. The wine's bright acidity cuts through the heaviness of the cheese and cream.
  • Create a light, refreshing side with mixed greens, cucumber, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette. The salad's crispness balances the casserole's warmth and adds a fresh contrast to the rich dish.
  • Prepare tender asparagus spears with olive oil, garlic, and sea salt. The vegetable's earthy flavor and slight crunch provide a perfect accompaniment to the cheesy chicken casserole.
  • Prepare a chilled glass of sparkling water with a fresh lemon slice. The light, bubbly drink helps cleanse the palate between bites and provides a refreshing counterpoint to the creamy dish.
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Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe

Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe


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4.6 from 35 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Comfort meets health in this irresistible Low Carb Chicken Casserole that delivers rich flavors without unnecessary carbohydrates. Creamy textures and savory chicken merge perfectly, offering a satisfying meal packed with protein and bold seasonings you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 3 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or baked)

Cheese and Dairy:

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ¼ cup Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 ounces (113 grams) cream cheese, softened

Vegetables and Seasonings:

  • 1 small head of cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • ¼ cup crushed pork rinds or almond flour
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cooking environment by warming the oven to 375F (190C) and lightly coating a 9×13-inch baking vessel with non-stick spray.
  2. Transform cauliflower florets into tender morsels through steaming or microwave treatment, ensuring complete moisture elimination by thorough draining.
  3. Craft a luxurious sauce foundation by gently sautéing minced garlic in melted butter, releasing aromatic essences within seconds.
  4. Develop the sauce’s complexity by incorporating heavy cream, cream cheese, Dijon mustard, onion powder, paprika, and seasoning, whisking until achieving a velvety, uniform consistency.
  5. Combine shredded chicken with prepared cauliflower and the meticulously crafted cream sauce in a spacious mixing receptacle, ensuring comprehensive ingredient integration.
  6. Transfer the harmonized mixture into the prepared baking dish, creating an even distribution across the surface.
  7. Lavishly crown the casserole with a trio of cheeses – cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan – ensuring complete coverage.
  8. Slide the assembled dish into the preheated oven, allowing 20-25 minutes of transformative baking until the cheese melts into a bubbling, golden landscape.
  9. Optional: Activate the broiler for a brief 2-3 minute finale to achieve a perfectly caramelized cheese crust.
  10. Elevate the dish’s textural profile by sprinkling crushed pork rinds or almond flour across the surface, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant finish.

Notes

  • Select bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts for maximum flavor and moisture retention during baking.
  • Drain cauliflower thoroughly to prevent excess water from making the casserole soggy.
  • Use full-fat dairy ingredients to maintain the rich, creamy texture typical of low-carb dishes.
  • Replace cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a tangier profile and slightly lighter consistency.
  • Swap chicken with rotisserie meat to reduce overall cooking time and add deeper seasoning.
  • Toast almond flour or pork rinds before sprinkling for enhanced nutty crunchiness.
  • Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the sauce for additional aromatic depth.
  • Prepare casserole ahead and refrigerate, allowing flavors to meld before baking for intensified taste.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 523
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 1030 mg
  • Fat: 43 g
  • Saturated Fat: 20 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 34 g
  • Cholesterol: 155 mg
Jessica Martinez

Jessica Martinez

Pastry Chef & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Organic Baking Techniques, Gluten-Free Recipe Development, Southwestern Dessert Specialties, Food Styling and Photography

Education

Santa Fe Community College (SFCC)

  • Program: Certificate in Patisserie
  • Focus: Cultivating disciplined kitchen preparation for a safe, organized, and sanitary workstation; mastering the timely production of nutritious, visually appealing pastries; safely operating standard pastry equipment; and honing core patissier techniques for professional pastry work.

Jessica brings the sweet side to Urban Organic with her passion for baking and love for the Southwest. She trained at Santa Fe Community College and has built a career creating beautiful, gluten-free, and organic desserts that feel both nostalgic and new.

She believes baking should be fun, creative, and open to everyone, no matter your diet or skill level. Jessica’s recipes are simple enough to follow, but special enough to remember.

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