Low carb chicken casserole with vegetables and cheese

Low Carb Chicken Casserole Fast, Creamy, and Ready Tonight

29 décembre 2025 par Chef Hanna Zest

This low carb chicken casserole is built for busy nights when you want comfort without fuss. Ready in about 30 minutes active time and mostly hands-off in the oven, it uses simple pantry spices and a handful of fresh vegetables. It’s high in protein, creamy without carbs-heavy thickeners, and bold enough to please a crowd. Pair it with a sweet treat like our delectable low carb raspberry cheesecake cookies for a quick full meal.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe keeps things streamlined by using cooked chicken so you skip long protein prep. Quick sautéing of broccoli and cauliflower softens them just enough while preserving texture. The cream cheese and heavy cream form a rich, low carb sauce that clings to the chicken and veggies without needing flour. Shredded cheddar on top browns quickly to create a bubbly crust that signals dinner is ready. Minimal spices mean broad appeal and easy ingredient swaps if you want to customize. Overall it balances speed, flavor, and satiating nutrients for busy cooks.

Flavor and Texture

The heavy cream and cream cheese create a silky base that carries garlic and onion powder for familiar savory flavor. Cheddar melts into a golden, slightly crisp topping that adds sharpness and contrast. Broccoli and cauliflower keep a little bite when sautéed briefly, so you get both tender and toothsome elements in each forkful. Paprika adds subtle warmth and color without overpowering the dish. Seasoning is straightforward so the chicken and vegetables remain the stars.

Ingredients

– 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup cauliflower florets
– 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Step by Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil.
3. Sauté the broccoli and cauliflower florets for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, sautéed broccoli, and cauliflower.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the cream cheese, heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
6. Mix until smooth.
7. Pour the cream mixture over the chicken and vegetables, stirring until everything is well-coated.
8. Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
9. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top of the casserole.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
11. Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.

Quick Tips and Shortcuts

Use rotisserie or leftover roasted chicken to shave time and add flavor. Frozen broccoli and cauliflower work fine—just thaw and pat dry before sautéing to avoid watering down the sauce. Swap sharp cheddar for Monterey Jack or a blend if you prefer milder meltiness. For a one-pan option, brown bite-size raw chicken first, then add vegetables and sauce and transfer the whole skillet to the oven. If you like onion-forward dishes, try the flavors from our French onion chicken orzo casserole for inspiration when adapting this recipe.

Storage and Meal Prep

Cool the casserole to room temperature before refrigerating in an airtight container; it keeps well for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish in a 350°F oven until bubbly. You can assemble the casserole in advance, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. For freezing, bake first, cool, then freeze in portions for best texture retention; thaw overnight before reheating.

Short Closing Note

This low carb chicken casserole is a reliable weeknight winner—minimal hands-on time, maximum comfort. Tweak the vegetables, cheese, or seasoning to fit your fridge and schedule.

FAQ

Can this be made in under 30 minutes?

Yes, the recipe is designed to be quick and efficient.

Does it work for meal prep?

Most versions store well for one to three days.

Can I customize the ingredients?

Yes, simple swaps can be made for convenience or dietary needs.