If you’re looking for a comforting and satisfying dinner that won’t weigh you down, you’ve got to try this Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole: Healthy, Light Dinner Recipe. It’s packed with tender chicken, fresh veggies, and creamy cheese goodness that melds together into a warm, bubbly bake. What’s wonderful is how this dish manages to feel indulgent while staying perfectly light and low carb, making it a fantastic choice for anyone juggling healthy eating with big flavors. Whether you’re new to casseroles or a seasoned pro, this recipe will quickly become one of your weeknight favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things wonderfully straightforward with a mix of fresh and creamy ingredients that each play a special role in the final dish. The chicken provides hearty protein, the vegetables add vibrant color and crunch, and the cheeses deliver that irresistible, melty comfort everyone loves.
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced): The protein powerhouse that forms the base of this casserole.
- 1 cup broccoli florets (lightly steamed): Adds a fresh, slightly crisp texture and bright green color.
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (any color): Brings sweetness and a pop of vibrant hue.
- 1/4 cup chopped onion: Adds a mild sharpness that balances the creaminess.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully to create a rich, gooey texture.
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened): Gives the casserole a velvety, creamy base.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Contributes a tangy smoothness that brightens the dish.
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise: Adds richness and helps bind all the ingredients together.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings savory warmth without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Boosts flavor depth alongside the fresh onion.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing natural flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a subtle kick of heat.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for a golden, flavorful crust.
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish: Adds a refreshing herbal note and pretty finish.
How to Make Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole: Healthy, Light Dinner Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and lightly greasing a 9×9-inch casserole dish. This ensures the cheesy, creamy goodness won’t stick and makes serving up slices effortless.
Step 2: Combine Your Chicken and Veggies
In a large bowl, toss together the cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, chopped bell pepper, onion, and shredded cheddar cheese. This colorful mix brings together protein and fresh veggies with the melty cheddar that will hold it all together.
Step 3: Whip up the Creamy Sauce
In a separate bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth. This rich and tangy sauce is the heart of the casserole, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful.
Step 4: Combine and Transfer
Pour the cream cheese mixture into the bowl with your chicken and veggies, then stir everything together until well coated. Transfer this luscious mixture to your prepared casserole dish and smooth it out into an even layer.
Step 5: Top and Bake
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top and slide the dish into the oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the top is lightly golden with a hint of crispness.
Step 6: Cool and Garnish
Let the baked casserole cool for a few minutes to set up perfectly. Then, if you like, sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh pop of color and flavor before serving.
How to Serve Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole: Healthy, Light Dinner Recipe
Garnishes
A simple handful of chopped fresh parsley not only brightens the presentation but also adds a lovely herbaceous contrast to the creamy casserole. If you want to amp up the flavor, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can add a gentle kick that pairs beautifully.
Side Dishes
This casserole stands well on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or a side of roasted asparagus can round out your meal perfectly. The freshness and crunch of leafy greens or lightly charred veggies complement the creamy texture wonderfully, keeping the meal balanced and light.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive dinner, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for personal portions that feel extra special. You can also stir in cooked bacon or sautéed mushrooms before baking for an added depth of flavor that will impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your casserole has cooled to room temperature, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it an ideal dish to enjoy over a couple of meals without sacrificing freshness.
Freezing
This Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole: Healthy, Light Dinner Recipe freezes beautifully. Just portion it into freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly with foil and plastic wrap. It will maintain its flavor and texture for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, place your casserole portion in an oven-safe dish and warm at 350°F for about 15 to 20 minutes until heated through and bubbly again. Alternatively, microwave it covered on medium power until hot, stirring if needed to ensure even heating.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables instead of broccoli?
Absolutely! Cauliflower is a fantastic low-carb substitute that works well, and green beans or zucchini would also be tasty alternatives. Just keep the texture in mind so your casserole stays deliciously creamy.
Is this casserole suitable for keto diets?
Yes, this recipe is keto-friendly since it’s low in carbs and rich in healthy fats and protein, perfect for staying in ketosis while indulging in a flavorful meal.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
While this dish relies heavily on cheese and creamy elements for its texture and taste, you could experiment with dairy-free cream cheese, sour cream, and cheese alternatives. Just expect some changes in flavor and consistency.
How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
Look for the casserole to be hot and bubbly around the edges with a golden, slightly crisp top from the Parmesan cheese. The internal temperature should be piping hot to ensure all flavors are melded and it’s safe to serve.
Can I use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken?
Definitely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that adds flavor and saves time, making this recipe even easier on busy nights.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a casserole that brings together wholesome ingredients with a creamy, satisfying texture without feeling heavy. This Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole: Healthy, Light Dinner Recipe is exactly that kind of meal — cozy, nutritious, and wonderfully simple. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own with your favorite veggies or additions. Once you do, I bet this will become a go-to recipe you’ll want to make again and again!
Print
Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole: Healthy, Light Dinner Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
This Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is a healthy, light, and satisfying dinner option that combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy cheeses into a comforting baked dish. Perfect for those following a low carb or keto lifestyle, this casserole is quick to prepare and features a deliciously cheesy, flavorful blend with a golden Parmesan crust.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
- 1 cup broccoli florets (lightly steamed)
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (any color)
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Binding and Flavoring
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Topping and Garnish
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch or similar size casserole dish to prevent sticking and help with even cooking.
- Combine Main Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the cooked chicken, lightly steamed broccoli florets, chopped bell pepper, chopped onion, and shredded cheddar cheese until evenly distributed.
- Make Creamy Mixture: In a separate bowl, thoroughly mix softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Mix Together: Add the creamy mixture to the bowl with the chicken and vegetables and stir well until everything is evenly coated and combined into a uniform filling.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out into an even layer to ensure even cooking and consistent texture.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole to create a flavorful and lightly crisp crust while baking.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the top is lightly golden and crisp.
- Serve and Garnish: Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired before serving warm for a hearty, low carb meal.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and convenient protein option.
- Cauliflower can be substituted for broccoli to vary the vegetable component.
- Add cooked bacon or mushrooms for extra depth of flavor and texture.
