After a long day of juggling work and responsibilities, nothing soothes the soul quite like a warm, hearty meal waiting at home. This Cheesy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is my go-to recipe for those busy evenings when I want something comforting yet healthy. With its mouthwatering combination of tender cauliflower rice, crisp broccoli, and juicy shredded chicken crowned with melted cheddar and crispy bacon, it’s a dish that feels indulgent while remaining perfectly aligned with my low-carb lifestyle.
Each bite is a delightful balance of creamy and savory, making it a family favorite that even the kids adore. What I love most is how easily it comes together—just toss, mix, and bake! Whether you’re looking to shake off the fast-food fatigue or simply want to enjoy a nourishing meal with loved ones, this casserole hits the spot. So grab your apron, and let’s create a dish that’s as satisfying as it is nutritious!
Why Will You Love This Low Carb Chicken Casserole?
Comforting, hearty flavors without the carbs—this recipe is a game changer!
Quick and easy prep means you can have dinner on the table in no time.
Nutritious ingredients like cauliflower and broccoli keep it healthy while satisfying your taste buds.
Crowd-pleaser appeal makes it perfect for family dinners or entertaining friends.
Versatile options allow you to mix in your favorite veggies or spices for a personal touch.
Get ready to enjoy a guilt-free, indulgent meal that everyone will be asking for again!
Low Carb Chicken Casserole Ingredients
• Gather your ingredients for a delightful low carb chicken casserole that your whole family will love!
For the Casserole
- Riced Cauliflower – Provides a low-carb base; frozen works great for convenience.
- Broccoli Florets – Adds nutrition and texture; fresh or frozen both do the job.
- Cooked Shredded Chicken – A source of lean protein; rotisserie chicken is a fantastic quick option.
- Bacon – Adds crispy deliciousness; you can substitute it with turkey bacon for a healthier choice.
- Grated Cheddar Cheese – Offers creaminess and richness; dairy-free cheese works for lactose-free diets.
- Eggs – Binds the casserole together; always opt for fresh eggs for the best taste.
- Salt – Enhances flavor; adjust to your dietary needs for a perfect balance.
- Garlic Powder – Infuses a savory aroma; feel free to swap in fresh minced garlic for extra freshness.
- Mustard Powder – Adds a hint of tang; can be omitted if it’s not to your liking.
- Cracked Pepper – Provides a subtle kick; freshly cracked is best for flavor.
For the Topping
- Additional Grated Cheddar Cheese – Sprinkled on top for a gooey finish and added richness!
How to Make Low Carb Chicken Casserole
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for achieving that perfect bubbly texture as your casserole bakes!
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Steam the riced cauliflower and broccoli in a pot or steamer basket until tender, about 5-7 minutes. The veggies should be soft enough to blend well but still have a bit of bite.
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Fry the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, approximately 7-10 minutes. Crumble it into small pieces and set aside for a delightful crunch in your finished dish.
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Combine in a large mixing bowl: the steamed cauliflower, broccoli, shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, eggs, 2.5 cups of cheddar, and spices. Mix everything well until fully blended, creating a beautiful melody of flavors!
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Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish. Make sure it’s evenly spread out, then top with the remaining 0.5 cup of cheddar cheese for that irresistible cheesy crust!
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Bake uncovered for about 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. A beautiful golden crust signals that it’s ready to be served!
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Low Carb Chicken Casseroles are perfect for busy weeknights when you want to save time! You can prepare the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance by following the initial steps, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. For best results, assemble the mixture, but don’t bake it until you’re ready to serve; this keeps the flavors fresh and prevents unwanted moisture. When you’re set to enjoy your meal, simply remove it from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, and then bake as directed until bubbly and golden brown. You’ll have a delicious, hearty meal waiting for you with minimal effort!
Low Carb Chicken Casserole Variations
Get ready to personalize your low carb chicken casserole with these delightful and simple variations!
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Turkey Swap: Use shredded turkey instead of chicken for a different protein taste. It’s a great way to enjoy leftovers!
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Veggie Medley: Mix in chopped spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for an extra boost of nutrients and texture.
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Cheese Variety: Try mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for unique flavor profiles that will keep things interesting!
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to bring some heat to your dish.
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Ranch Flavor: Incorporate ranch seasoning into the mix for a delicious, tangy twist that your family will love.
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Creamy Addition: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before baking for added creaminess.
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Nutty Crust: Top with crushed nuts or seeds for a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy filling.
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Cauliflower Cheese: Replace some cheddar with a cauliflower cheese sauce for an extra cheesiness while keeping it low carb.
Expert Tips for Low Carb Chicken Casserole
- Steam Veggies First: Ensure you’re steaming the riced cauliflower and broccoli until tender to avoid excess moisture in the casserole and achieve the best texture.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking to allow flavors to meld, enhancing the overall taste and creaminess.
- Watch the Cheese: Don’t skimp on the cheese topping! Using freshly grated cheddar creates a beautifully gooey finish—avoid pre-shredded to prevent added anti-caking agents.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh eggs and veggies significantly boost the flavor; check that your ingredients are as fresh as possible for a perfect low carb chicken casserole.
- Customize Your Mix-Ins: Feel free to add in extra vegetables or herbs for added nutrition and flavor; just ensure they fit within your low-carb approach!
What to Serve with Cheesy Low Carb Chicken Casserole?
Enjoying a warm casserole is just the beginning—let’s create a full meal experience.
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Mixed Green Salad: A light and refreshing salad sprinkled with a zesty vinaigrette perfectly balances the rich flavors of the casserole.
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Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus tossed in garlic and olive oil adds a crunchy texture and a lovely earthiness that complements the cheesy dish.
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Creamy Cauliflower Mash: For an indulgent touch, this velvety mash mimics potatoes and keeps the low-carb vibe, pairing beautifully with all the casserole’s flavors.
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Steamed Broccoli: Extra greens on the side boost nutrition without overwhelming the plate, making it a healthy choice that mirrors the casserole’s ingredients.
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Low-Carb Breadsticks: Add a delightful chewy touch to the meal; perfect for dipping into the cheesy goodness leftover on your plate!
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Keto-friendly Wine: A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio enhances the meal’s elegant vibe, while its acidity cuts through the richness of the casserole for a balanced sip.
How to Store and Freeze Low Carb Chicken Casserole
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will keep your low carb chicken casserole fresh and delicious.
Freezer: To freeze, portion into individual servings and wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. It can last for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through, ensuring the casserole retains its creamy texture.
Serving Freshness: For the best flavor, aim to eat within a few days of preparation, but feel free to freeze for later enjoyment!
Cheesy Low Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best riced cauliflower?
Absolutely! When choosing riced cauliflower, look for fresh, white cauliflower heads without any dark spots or discoloration. If you opt for frozen, ensure it’s free from excess ice crystals, which can indicate freezer burn. Always check the expiration date for the best quality.
How should I store leftover Cheesy Low Carb Chicken Casserole?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the casserole cool to room temperature before sealing it. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through for the best flavor!
Can I freeze Cheesy Low Carb Chicken Casserole? What’s the best method?
Yes, you can! To freeze, portion the casserole into individual servings or wrap the entire dish tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. This method helps keep it fresh for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until heated through.
What should I do if my casserole turns out soggy?
If your casserole ends up soggy, it may be due to excess moisture in the vegetables. To prevent this, always steam your riced cauliflower and broccoli until tender to reduce any water content. If you use frozen veggies, ensure they’re completely thawed and drained before mixing them in.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! This Cheesy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is perfect for low-carb and keto diets, making it suitable for those cutting carbs. If you have allergies, you can swap out the bacon for a turkey alternative and use dairy-free cheese for lactose intolerance. Always check labels if you’re unsure about any specific ingredients.
What if I want to make this casserole vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, skip the chicken and bacon altogether. Instead, you can mix in more veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a hearty meal. You might also consider adding beans or lentils for protein. Adjust the spices to keep the flavor profile delicious and satisfying!
Delicious Low Carb Chicken Casserole That Everyone Will Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Steam the riced cauliflower and broccoli until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Fry the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, approximately 7-10 minutes.
- Combine the steamed cauliflower, broccoli, shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, eggs, 2.5 cups of cheddar, and spices in a large mixing bowl.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13 baking dish and top with the remaining 0.5 cup of cheddar cheese.
- Bake uncovered for about 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.