low carb chicken casserole

Low Carb Chicken Casserole: Tasty & Nutritious Options

Quick & Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole Recipes

What Is the Recipe for Low Carb Chicken Casserole?

🍗 LOW CARB CHICKEN CASSEROLE – A comforting dish made with shredded chicken, riced cauliflower, broccoli florets, cracked pepper, mustard powder, eggs, bacon, salt, garlic powder, creamy cheese, and low-carb vegetables. This easy-to-bake recipe is flavorful, satisfying, and perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner.

A low-carb chicken casserole is a cozy, baked dish that’s packed with tender chicken, creamy cheese, and fresh veggies, all while keeping the carbs low.

It’s the perfect meal for anyone following a low-carb or keto lifestyle, offering all the comfort of a traditional casserole without the heavy carbs. Mix it with ingredients like cauliflower, broccoli, or spinach—whatever suits your taste.

In this post, we’ll show you why low-carb chicken casserole is not only satisfying but also super easy to make. We’ll walk you through everything from the ingredients you’ll need to easy step-by-step instructions, along with a few expert tips to help you make it just right.

You’ll also get ideas for serving it, storing leftovers, and even some fun keto recipes to try afterward. Whether you’re new to low-carb meals or simply looking for a fresh twist, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

A baked casserole dish filled with roasted chicken pieces, melted cheese, and topped with diced avocado, placed on a wooden table next to a striped napkin and utensils
A baked casserole dish filled with roasted chicken pieces, melted cheese, and topped with diced avocado, placed on a wooden table next to a striped napkin and utensils

Table of Contents:

What Is Low Carb Chicken Casserole?

A white baking dish with golden-brown baked chicken breasts in a creamy mushroom and garlic sauce, garnished with fresh parsley, placed on a white wooden table
A white baking dish with golden-brown baked chicken breasts in a creamy mushroom and garlic sauce, garnished with fresh parsley, placed on a white wooden table

Low-carb chicken casserole is a healthier twist on the classic comfort food. It combines protein-rich chicken breasts with creamy cheese and nutrient-packed vegetables, all while keeping the carb count low.

Instead of using high-carb ingredients like pasta or potatoes, this casserole often includes low-carb substitutes such as cauliflower, zucchini, or broccoli, making it a perfect fit for those on a keto or low-carb diet.

The dish is typically baked in the oven, allowing the ingredients to meld together into a satisfying, hearty meal. It’s easy to prepare, customizable with your favorite veggies and cheeses, and provides a filling, flavorful meal that won’t derail your dietary goals.

Whether you’re trying to reduce carbs or simply want a delicious, wholesome meal, low-carb chicken casserole is a great choice.

Is Low Carb Chicken Casserole Keto-Friendly?

A baking dish filled with seasoned chicken fillets casserole and a colorful assortment of vegetables, including carrots, green beans, tomatoes, and peppers, placed on a rustic wooden table with a blue checkered cloth and kitchen utensils nearby
A baking dish filled with seasoned chicken fillets casserole and a colorful assortment of vegetables, including carrots, green beans, tomatoes, and peppers, placed on a rustic wooden table with a blue checkered cloth and kitchen utensils nearby

Yes, low-carb chicken casserole is keto-friendly! The ketogenic diet focuses on high fats, moderate proteins, and very low carbohydrates, and this casserole fits perfectly within those guidelines.

By using low-carb vegetables like cauliflower, steamed broccoli, and zucchini instead of starchy ingredients like potatoes or pasta, the carb count stays low. The creamy, cheesy base adds healthy fats, making it a satisfying meal that won’t kick you out of ketosis.

Plus, with chicken thighs providing a good source of protein, this casserole delivers all the necessary macronutrients for a keto diet.

Whether you’re new to keto or just looking for a tasty, low-carb option, this casserole is a great choice to keep your meals on track while still enjoying delicious comfort food.

Ingredients to Prepare

A white baking dish with roasted chicken legs, golden potato wedges, and garlic cloves, garnished with fresh rosemary, placed on a striped cloth with a side of rice
A white baking dish with roasted chicken legs, golden potato wedges, and garlic cloves, garnished with fresh rosemary, placed on a striped cloth with a side of rice

This casserole recipe is simple and flexible. Here are the essentials you’ll need:

  • Riced cauliflower: This low-carb vegetable acts as a rice substitute, adding bulk and a mildly nutty flavor without heavy carbs. Its texture absorbs the casserole’s creamy, cheesy flavors beautifully.
  • Broccoli florets: Fresh broccoli provides a slight crunch and earthy flavor, balancing the rich shredded cheese and bacon. It’s loaded with fiber and vitamins, making the dish more nutritious and colorful.
  • Cracked pepper: Freshly cracked pepper brings a gentle heat that complements the creamy and savory notes. It adds subtle depth, making the flavors in the casserole more pronounced and layered.
  • Mustard powder: Adds a unique tanginess that cuts through the richness of the cheese and eggs. Its slight sharpness enhances the chicken’s flavor without overwhelming the dish.
  • Shredded chicken: This tender, protein-rich base is essential for a filling casserole. It soaks up the spices and sauces, offering a juicy texture that complements the creamy ingredients.
  • Eggs: These act as a binder, giving the casserole structure while adding a light, airy consistency. They help blend the flavors and create a custard-like, fluffy finish.
  • Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the other flavors, highlighting the natural tastes of each ingredient. It rounds out the dish without making it overly salty.
  • Garlic powder: Adds a subtle, aromatic warmth and savory hint, blending seamlessly with the other spices. It boosts flavor without the need for fresh garlic, keeping prep simple.
  • Bacon: Crispy bacon provides a smoky, salty crunch that contrasts with the casserole’s creamy textures. Its savory flavor adds an indulgent touch, making each bite flavorful.
  • Grated cheddar: Melted cheddar gives a creamy, gooey finish with a strong, sharp flavor that binds the casserole. It brings everything together, making the dish irresistibly cheesy and satisfying.

Ingredient Measurement

A ceramic baking dish with golden roasted chicken thighs, diced potatoes, shredded carrots, and caramelized onions, garnished with fresh dill, placed on a wooden surface
A ceramic baking dish with golden roasted chicken thighs, diced potatoes, shredded carrots, and caramelized onions, garnished with fresh dill, placed on a wooden surface

For a balanced casserole, these measurements will serve four:

  • 16 ounces of riced cauliflower
  • 12 ounces of broccoli florets
  • ½ teaspoon of cracked pepper
  • ½ teaspoon of mustard powder
  • 2 cups of shredded chicken
  • 2 pieces of large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
  • 4 slices of bacon
  • 3 cups of grated cheddar

Equipment You’ll Need

To create this low-carb chicken casserole, here’s what you’ll need:

  • Oven
  • Large bowl
  • Baking dish 9×13
  • Frypan
  • Spatula

How to Make Low Carb Chicken Casserole

A person holding a rectangular baking dish filled with roasted chicken thighs casserole and vibrant vegetables, including baby carrots, green beans, baby corn, and colorful bell peppers
A person holding a rectangular baking dish filled with roasted chicken thighs casserole and vibrant vegetables, including baby carrots, green beans, baby corn, and colorful bell peppers

Making low-carb chicken casserole is easy and perfect for busy nights. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a delicious, satisfying meal ready in no time.

Just follow a few quick steps to bring this comforting dish to life, let’s dive into the details!

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F. Steam the cauliflower and broccoli until they’re soft and tender.
  • In a skillet, fry the bacon until crispy, then crumble it into small pieces.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

  • In a large mixing bowl, add the steamed cauliflower and broccoli, crumbled bacon, chicken, eggs, 2 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese, and the spices. Stir everything together until well mixed.

Step 3: Bake and Serve

  • Spread the mixture evenly in a 9×13 baking dish, then sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese on top.
  • Bake uncovered for 30 minutes. Serve hot and enjoy!

Low Carb Chicken Casserole Nutrition

A colorful baked casserole dish filled with zucchini, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, and melted cheese, garnished with fresh parsley, placed on a rustic wooden table with a green checkered cloth and scattered fresh vegetables
A colorful baked casserole dish filled with zucchini, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, and melted cheese, garnished with fresh parsley, placed on a rustic wooden table with a green checkered cloth and scattered fresh vegetables

Low-carb chicken casserole is packed with protein from the chicken breast, healthy fats from cheese, and essential nutrients from fresh veggies, all while keeping carbs low.

This balanced meal supports keto and low-carb diets, making it both nutritious and satisfying. Here a typical serving contains:

  • Calories: 457 kcal
  • Total fats: 27 grams
  • Net carbs: 4 grams
  • Protein: 45 grams

Expert Tips for Perfecting Your Low Carb Chicken Casserole

A metal baking tray filled with roasted chicken legs casserole, potatoes, and caramelized onions, seasoned with herbs and spices, placed on a woven mat with fresh ingredients and spices in the background
A metal baking tray filled with roasted chicken legs casserole, potatoes, and caramelized onions, seasoned with herbs and spices, placed on a woven mat with fresh ingredients and spices in the background

Here are some expert tips for making a delicious low-carb chicken casserole:

  • Choose Low-Carb Vegetables Wisely: Use vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, spinach, and bell peppers, which are low in carbs but add plenty of fiber, texture, and flavor. These options keep the dish satisfying while keeping carbs in check.
  • Opt for Full-Fat Dairy Ingredients: For a creamy, keto-friendly casserole, use full-fat dairy like cream cheese, heavy cream, or sour cream instead of milk. These add richness to the dish without extra carbs, giving it a smooth, hearty texture.
  • Season Generously: Low-carb casseroles benefit from robust seasoning. Add garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, paprika, or Italian seasoning to boost flavor without added carbs. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can also add a fresh touch.
  • Use Pre-Cooked Chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked or leftover shredded chicken. Rotisserie chicken is a convenient, flavorful option, and it speeds up the prep process for a quick, weeknight meal.
  • Add Cheese for Texture and Flavor: Shredded cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or parmesan provide flavor and create a crispy top layer. To get the perfect golden-brown topping, add a layer of cheese in the last 10 minutes of baking.
  • Incorporate a Thickener Sparingly: If you prefer a thicker casserole, add a small amount of xanthan gum or coconut flour, which helps thicken the sauce without adding carbs. Be careful, as a little goes a long way.
  • Keep It Creamy with Low-Carb Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels. A splash of broth helps keep the casserole moist and flavorful, especially if it has high-fat ingredients like cheese and cream.
  • Add Crunch with Low-Carb Toppings: For added texture, top the casserole with crushed pork rinds or almond flour crumbs for a crispy, low-carb crunch. This step adds a satisfying contrast to the creamy base.
  • Bake for Perfect Texture: Bake the casserole at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until it’s bubbly and the cheese topping is golden. Avoid over-baking, which can make the casserole dry.
  • Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Top with fresh parsley, cilantro, or green onions just before serving to add a burst of color and a fresh taste to balance the richness of the casserole.

Following these tips will result in a flavorful, satisfying low-carb chicken casserole that’s both easy to make and perfectly suited to a keto or low-carb lifestyle!

Serving and Pairing Ideas

A baked vegetarian casserole featuring zucchini, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes, topped with melted cheese and garnished with fresh parsley, placed on a rustic wooden table
A baked vegetarian casserole featuring zucchini, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes, topped with melted cheese and garnished with fresh parsley, placed on a rustic wooden table

This casserole is quite filling, but it pairs well with a few sides to round out your meal. Here are some ideas:

Serving Ideas

  • Serve with a Fresh Green Salad: A simple side salad with mixed greens, avocado, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette makes a perfect complement to the rich, cheesy casserole. The crunch and freshness of the salad balance out the creamy texture of the dish.
  • Pair with Roasted Vegetables: Roasted cauliflower, broccoli, or zucchini works well alongside chicken casserole. These low-carb veggies add extra fiber and nutrients, making your meal more filling and satisfying.
  • Serve with Cauliflower Rice or Mash: For an extra dose of veggies, serve the casserole over cauliflower rice or mashed cauliflower. These are great low-carb alternatives to regular rice or mashed potatoes, offering a mild flavor that pairs perfectly with the casserole.
  • Pair with a Keto-Friendly Bread: A slice of keto bread or a low-carb roll can be the perfect side to scoop up any leftover casserole sauce, adding a bit of texture without the carbs.
  • Top with Sautéed Greens: Sautéed spinach, kale, or Swiss chard with garlic and olive oil makes an excellent side dish. The slightly bitter greens provide a nice contrast to the richness of the casserole.

Pairing Ideas

  • White Wine: A dry white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the richness of the chicken casserole without overpowering the flavors.
  • Red Wine: If you prefer red wine, go for something light and dry, like Pinot Noir. Its subtle acidity pairs well with the savory chicken and cheesy elements.
  • Low-Carb Beer: A light, low-carb beer such as Michelob Ultra or a craft beer brewed for low-carb diets can be a refreshing pairing that doesn’t disrupt your carb count.
  • Sparkling Water with Lime: For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a squeeze of lime or lemon provides a refreshing and zesty contrast to the casserole’s rich flavors.
  • Iced Herbal Tea: Iced herbal teas like mint or chamomile are excellent options to pair with a low-carb chicken casserole. Their light, slightly sweet taste enhances the flavors of the dish without adding any carbs.
  • Sugar-Free Soft Drinks: If you’re in the mood for something sweeter, a sugar-free soda like Diet Coke or a keto-friendly soft drink can be a nice, fizzy companion.

These serving and pairing ideas elevate your low-carb chicken casserole into a well-rounded meal that’s both satisfying and delicious!

How to Store Keto Low Carb Chicken Casserole

A white baking dish filled with seasoned chicken fillets casserole and a vibrant mix of vegetables, including carrots, green beans, tomatoes, and peppers, placed on a rustic wooden table with a blue checkered cloth
A white baking dish filled with seasoned chicken fillets casserole and a vibrant mix of vegetables, including carrots, green beans, tomatoes, and peppers, placed on a rustic wooden table with a blue checkered cloth

Storing keto low-carb chicken casserole is simple and perfect for meal prep. To keep it fresh, allow the casserole to cool to room temperature before storing.

Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it.

For freezing, portion the casserole into individual servings and wrap them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container.

When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. This makes it a great make-ahead meal that you can enjoy throughout the week without the hassle of cooking every day.

More Keto Recipes You Can Make at Home

Looking for more keto-friendly recipes? There are plenty of delicious options to try, from savory dishes like frozen cauliflower rice and zucchini noodles to sweet treats like keto brownies and fat bombs.

Be sure to review recipe ratings to see how others have enjoyed these meals! With a bit of creativity, you can enjoy a variety of keto meals right at home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Casserole Good for Health?

Yes, casseroles can be quite healthy when made with nutritious ingredients like lean protein, vegetables, and healthy fats. A keto chicken casserole, in particular, provides essential nutrients while keeping the carb count low, making it a great option for maintaining a balanced, healthy diet.

How Do You Maintain a Casserole?

To maintain a casserole, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions. When reheating, make sure to heat thoroughly to preserve flavor and texture, ensuring your casserole remains as delicious as the first day.

How Long Should a Casserole Be Cooked For?

A low-carb chicken casserole typically takes about 25-30 minutes to bake at 375°F (190°C), or until the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese is bubbly and golden. Always check the internal temperature of the chicken, aiming for 165°F (74°C) for safety and perfect texture.

Final Thoughts

In this post, we’ve covered everything you need to know about making a low-carb chicken casserole.

From understanding what makes it keto-friendly to learning how to store and reheat it, this prepared casserole dish is easy to prepare and perfect for anyone looking for a satisfying, low-carb meal.

With a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a hearty, flavorful casserole that fits perfectly into your diet.

Ready to try more delicious keto recipes? Visit our website for more mouthwatering ideas that are simple to make and perfect for any occasion!