The allure of a comforting, home-cooked meal is something truly special, and my Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole delivers just that – a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. It’s a delightful blend of tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a rich, creamy sauce, all baked to golden perfection. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a testament to how simple, wholesome ingredients can transform into something truly magical and satisfying.
I remember countless afternoons in Grandma’s kitchen, not always baking sweets, but watching her turn humble ingredients into hearty family meals that filled our home with the most wonderful aromas. There’s a certain magic in that process, a love that goes into every stir and sprinkle, and I’ve carried that feeling into every recipe I create, especially comforting ones like this casserole.
This Low Carb Chicken Casserole is not only incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight dinner, but it’s also wonderfully family-friendly, appealing to even the pickiest eaters. My practical tip for any savory bake? Always taste your sauce before it goes into the oven – a little adjustment can make all the difference!
What You Need to Make This Recipe
For this comforting casserole, we rely on tender chicken breasts, crisp broccoli florets, and a dreamy blend of cream cheese, heavy cream, and sharp cheddar. It’s a harmonious combination that promises rich flavor without the carbs. My secret for depth? Always use good quality chicken broth! You’ll find the full ingredient list and measurements in the recipe card below.
How to Make Low Carb Chicken Casserole
Crafting this comforting Low Carb Chicken Casserole is a breeze. We begin by preparing the chicken, then sautéing the vegetables until tender. Next, we whisk together a luscious, creamy sauce, combine all the elements, and finally, bake it to golden, bubbly perfection. It’s a straightforward process that yields a truly satisfying meal every time.
Creamy Low Carb Chicken & Broccoli Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and set aside.
- Pat diced chicken dry with paper towels. In a mixing bowl, toss chicken with olive oil, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1/2 tsp garlic powder.
- Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides and mostly cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet (no need to clean), add diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the broccoli florets. If using fresh, cook for 3-5 minutes until tender-crisp. If using frozen, cook for 5-7 minutes until heated through and slightly softened. Remove vegetables from the skillet and set aside with the chicken.
- Reduce heat to medium-low. Add the cubed softened cream cheese to the skillet and stir until mostly melted. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream until the sauce is smooth. Stir in the Dijon mustard.
- If using, sprinkle Xanthan gum over the sauce and whisk vigorously for 30 seconds to thicken. Be careful not to add too much, a little goes a long way.
- Stir in 3/4 cup of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and all of the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste, starting with 1/4 tsp each and adjusting as needed.
- Return the cooked chicken and sautéed vegetables to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Stir gently to combine everything thoroughly, ensuring the chicken and broccoli are well coated.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the cheese on top is melted and lightly golden.
- Remove from oven and let stand for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
Notes
Pro Tips for Making This Low Carb Chicken Casserole
Making a wonderful Low Carb Chicken Casserole is all about those little touches that elevate it from good to absolutely divine. My aim is always to make sure you feel confident and joyful in the kitchen!
My Secret Trick: I always sear my chicken breasts lightly before cubing them for the casserole. This extra step locks in moisture and adds a beautiful depth of flavor that a simple boil or bake just can’t achieve. Trust me, it makes all the difference!
To achieve that perfectly creamy texture without excess flour, I always recommend tempering your cream cheese with a little warm chicken broth first. This ensures a silky-smooth sauce without any lumps, creating a truly luxurious base.
Don’t be shy with your seasonings! I find a generous hand with garlic powder and black pepper really brings out the best in both the chicken and the broccoli. Always taste and adjust before baking, just as my grandmother taught me – your palate is your best guide.
For that irresistible golden-brown crust, don’t rush the final bake. Give the casserole ample time in the oven, especially during the last few minutes, to let the cheeses melt into a beautiful, bubbly, and slightly crispy topping.
Fun Variations for Low Carb Chicken Casserole
I adore how a recipe can be a canvas for creativity! This Low Carb Chicken Casserole is wonderfully adaptable, inviting you to play with flavors and ingredients. My friend, Emily, loves changing things up, and she always inspires me to think of new twists.
Vegetable Swaps
Feel free to introduce other low-carb vegetables. My sister adores adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach to her casserole for an extra layer of earthiness. You could also try green beans or cauliflower florets. Just ensure they are tender-crisp before adding them to the mix.
Spice It Up!
For those who enjoy a little kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce in the creamy sauce can transform this comforting dish into something with a lively zing. It’s a wonderful way to personalize your experience.
Cheese Please!
While cheddar and Parmesan are classics, don’t hesitate to experiment with different cheeses. A smoky provolone, a tangy Monterey Jack, or even a little cream cheese swirl (beyond the base) could add a unique flavor profile that delights your taste buds.
What to Serve With Low Carb Chicken Casserole
A hearty, comforting dish like our Low Carb Chicken Casserole deserves companions that complement its richness without overpowering it. When I serve a meal like this, I think about balance and how to make the whole plate feel complete and satisfying.
I love serving this casserole with a simple, crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. The fresh, tangy greens cut through the richness beautifully, making each bite of the creamy casserole even more enjoyable. It’s a classic pairing that always works!
My mom always says a sprinkle of fresh herbs can elevate any dish, and she’s right! A scattering of fresh parsley or chives over your warm casserole just before serving adds a lovely burst of color and a fresh, aromatic finish.
For a slightly heartier side that’s still low-carb, consider some steamed asparagus or a side of roasted Brussels sprouts. Their slightly bitter notes create a wonderful contrast, making the meal feel more gourmet and special without much fuss.
How to Store Low Carb Chicken Casserole
To ensure your delicious Low Carb Chicken Casserole remains as delightful tomorrow as it is today, proper storage is key. It’s so lovely to have leftovers that taste just as wonderful, ready for a quick and easy meal.
Fridge Storage
Once cooled completely, transfer any leftover casserole to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. I always recommend placing a piece of parchment paper directly on the surface of the casserole before sealing the container; this helps prevent it from drying out.
Freezer Tips
If you’re planning ahead or have a larger batch, this casserole freezes well! Portion it into individual freezer-safe containers or a larger foil-wrapped dish. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, you can use the microwave for individual portions, gently warming until heated through. For a larger amount, cover it with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm, removing the foil for the last few minutes if you want to crisp up the topping again. A splash of extra broth or cream can help maintain moisture.
Nutritional Benefits
This delightful Low Carb Chicken Casserole offers a fantastic way to enjoy a satisfying meal while keeping carb counts in check. Packed with protein from the chicken and wholesome vitamins from the broccoli, it’s a treat that’s both nourishing and incredibly flavorful, embodying my belief that healthy eating can still be utterly delicious.
FAQs
Faq 1
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the entire Low Carb Chicken Casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats through evenly from the chilled state.
Faq 2
What kind of chicken works best for this recipe?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this creamy casserole, offering tender bites that absorb the rich flavors beautifully. However, cooked leftover rotisserie chicken can also be a fantastic time-saver, adding even more convenience to your meal.
Faq 3
Can I substitute other vegetables for broccoli?
Yes, feel free to get creative! Cauliflower florets, green beans, or even sautéed spinach work wonderfully as substitutes or additions in this Low Carb Chicken Casserole. Just ensure any firmer vegetables are pre-cooked until tender-crisp.
Faq 4
Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
Indeed it is! This creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely, then store in airtight, freezer-safe containers for up to two to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Conclusion
Creating this Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is an act of love, bringing warmth and comfort to your table with every bubbly, cheesy bite. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients, combined with a little care, can create truly memorable meals. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this incredibly satisfying Low Carb Chicken Casserole, gather your loved ones, and savor the pure joy of homemade goodness. Happy baking, my friends!