If you’ve been searching for a comforting, satisfyingly hearty meal that fits perfectly into your low-carb lifestyle, then this Easy Low-Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe is your new best friend. It’s packed with wholesome ingredients like tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and creamy cheese, all coming together to create a dish that’s as flavorful as it is nourishing. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or prepping ahead for a satisfying lunch, this casserole is remarkably simple to prepare and offers impressive results that everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To master this recipe, you only need a handful of fresh, easy-to-find ingredients, each bringing its own special touch to the casserole’s taste, texture, and vibrant color. These essentials work in harmony to create layers of flavor and keep the dish refreshingly low in carbs.
- Cooked chicken (2 cups): Using shredded or diced rotisserie chicken saves time and adds rich, savory meatiness.
- Broccoli (1 medium head): Chopped into small florets, broccoli adds crunch and a beautiful green burst of nutrition.
- Bell peppers (1 cup): Diced in your choice of colors, these peppers bring sweetness and a subtle crispness.
- Zucchini (1 cup): Sliced zucchini contributes moisture and a touch of earthiness without overpowering the dish.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): This melts perfectly to create gooey, cheesy layers that make the casserole irresistibly comforting.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Adds richness and creaminess that bind the ingredients together wonderfully.
- Chicken broth (1 cup): Enhances the savory flavor profile while keeping the casserole moist.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Ideal for sautéing vegetables gently to preserve their brightness and texture.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses a fragrant, savory kick that wakes up every bite.
- Dried thyme (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle herbal note that complements the chicken beautifully.
- Dried basil (1 teaspoon): Brings an aromatic sweetness that rounds out the flavor.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Essential for balancing and enhancing the overall taste.
- Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): A gentle heat that adds depth.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (¼ cup, optional): Sprinkled on top for a golden, flavorful crust.
How to Make Easy Low-Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready when your casserole is assembled. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with olive oil or non-stick spray—this simple step prevents sticking and guarantees easy serving later.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables Carefully
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the broccoli florets, diced bell peppers, sliced zucchini, and minced garlic. Sauté these vibrant veggies for 4 to 5 minutes just until they become tender but maintain a pleasant crispness. This preserves their color and texture, giving the casserole a fresh, lively bite.
Step 3: Stir Together All the Flavors
In a separate mixing bowl, combine your cooked chicken with the sautéed vegetables. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, then season with dried thyme, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Give everything a thorough stir so each ingredient is evenly incorporated, ensuring every spoonful of this Easy Low-Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe bursts with balanced flavor.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer your creamy chicken and veggie mixture to the greased casserole dish, spreading it out in an even layer. Generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top—this forms a luscious cheesy layer when baked. If you want to up the indulgence a bit, add a dusting of grated Parmesan cheese for a golden finish that’s full of umami.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is beautifully bubbly and golden brown, delivering that perfect combination of crispy edges with a creamy inside.
Step 6: Let It Rest Before Serving
Once out of the oven, let your casserole rest for about five minutes. This brief pause helps the layers settle, making it easier to cut and serve while locking in all that mouthwatering moisture and flavor.
How to Serve Easy Low-Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives over the top before serving provides a fresh, green pop of color and a subtle herbal brightness that elevates the entire dish. For a touch of indulgence, consider garnish with a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines on its own, but pairing it with a crisp garden salad or a simple side of roasted asparagus or sautéed green beans can bring in complementary textures and flavors. A light lemon vinaigrette on the side cuts through the creamy richness perfectly, making your meal balanced and satisfying without adding many carbs.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving guests or want a playful twist, try scooping the casserole into individual ramekins for perfectly portioned personal servings. Alternatively, serve it alongside cauliflower rice to stretch the meal further while keeping it low-carb and gluten-free. Layering it in a beautiful baking dish visible through glass also makes for a stunning centerpiece at any dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Easy Low-Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for an even tastier second meal. Just be sure to cool it completely before storing to maintain the best texture.
Freezing
This casserole freezes wonderfully, making it an excellent meal prep option. After baking and cooling, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, then place it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Freeze in individual portions if you want easy grab-and-go meals later.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, then warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for around 15-20 minutes until heated through and bubbly. Alternatively, microwave individual portions on medium power, covering to preserve moisture while reheating.
FAQs
Can I use raw chicken for this casserole?
Since the recipe calls for cooked chicken to save time and ensure tenderness, it’s best to cook raw chicken in advance by roasting or poaching. Using pre-cooked chicken like rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut without sacrificing flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for a keto diet?
Absolutely! The Easy Low-Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe is packed with proteins, healthy fats from the cream and cheese, and low-carb vegetables, making it an excellent choice for anyone following a ketogenic diet.
Can I substitute the vegetables?
Yes, feel free to swap in your favorite low-carb veggies like cauliflower florets, spinach, or mushrooms. Just keep in mind that cooking times and moisture levels might vary slightly depending on what you choose.
What kind of cheese works best?
Cheddar cheese melts beautifully and adds a rich, sharp flavor, but you can experiment with mozzarella, gouda, or a blend of cheeses. Parmesan on top adds a savory, crispy crust, but it’s optional based on your preference.
Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, swap heavy cream for a coconut cream alternative and use dairy-free cheese substitutes. The texture may differ somewhat but staying close to these swaps keeps the casserole flavorful and creamy enough to enjoy.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Low-Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe is truly a winner in the kitchen, combining simplicity, speed, and incredible flavor into one satisfying dish. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe promises a cozy, delicious meal that fits perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle. Give it a try and watch it become one of your favorite go-to dinners! Your taste buds will thank you.
Print
Easy Low-Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
This Easy Low-Carb Chicken Casserole is a comforting, healthy dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Packed with tender chicken, sautéed vegetables, creamy cheese sauce, and flavorful herbs, this casserole is low in carbohydrates yet rich in taste. Simple to prepare with common ingredients and cooked in the oven, it’s a wholesome meal the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works well)
Vegetables
- 1 medium head of broccoli, chopped into small florets
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced (any color)
- 1 cup zucchini, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy & Liquids
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese for topping (optional)
Seasonings & Oils
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with olive oil or non-stick spray to prevent sticking during baking.
- Sauté the vegetables: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped broccoli, diced bell peppers, sliced zucchini, and minced garlic. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables become tender but still retain a slight crispness, enhancing their flavor and texture.
- Combine ingredients: In a separate mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded or diced chicken with the sautéed vegetables. Add the heavy cream, chicken broth, dried thyme, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Assemble the casserole: Transfer the combined mixture into the greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly for uniform cooking. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the mixture. Optionally, add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor and a golden crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese topping becomes bubbly and turns a delicious golden brown, indicating the dish is heated through and ready.
- Rest and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the casserole to set, making it easier to serve and enhancing the flavors.
Notes
- You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, but it may affect the creaminess.
- Use different cheese blends like mozzarella or Monterey Jack if preferred.
- If you prefer a spicier casserole, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing the vegetables.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Ensure not to overcook the vegetables during sautéing to maintain their texture.
