© Original Recipe By Serena Recipes ©
🥘 Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole: Your Comfort Food Without the Carbs! 🍗
1. Introduction
If you love hearty, flavorful dishes but are keeping an eye on your carbohydrate intake, then this Low carb chicken casserole is just what you need. It’s a creamy, cheesy delight that feels indulgent yet fits perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle. This easy chicken casserole combines tender shredded chicken with a luscious, savory sauce topped with melty cheese—perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping. Trust me, once you taste this creamy chicken bake, it will become a regular on your dining table!
2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in about 40 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight meal.
- One-pan comfort food, with minimal cleanup required.
- High in protein, perfect for muscle-building and satisfaction.
- Flexible and customizable, with options for substitutions and add-ins.
3. Ingredient Notes
Choosing high-quality ingredients elevates this creamy low carb chicken casserole to restaurant-quality. Use fresh, organic chicken whenever possible for tender, juicy bites. For the creamy sauce, I recommend heavy cream or unsweetened almond milk to keep it light yet rich. Sharp cheddar or Parmesan cheese adds a savory punch, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella or gouda for different flavor profiles. Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to enhance every layer of taste.
4. Kitchen Tools You Need
To achieve perfect results, having the right tools makes all the difference. I recommend the KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer in Scorched Orange—not only for prep but also for mixing sauces smoothly. For baking and baking dishes, the Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo offers versatility, especially if you want to add crispy toppings or quickly cook your chicken. If you want precise control over your cooking, a digital air fryer like the Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer by Amazon Basics can be a game changer.
5. How to Make Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole
Prepare the Chicken
Start by cooking your chicken breasts or thighs until tender—either poached, baked, or pan-seared. Then, shred the meat for easy mixing. The aroma of cooked chicken combined with garlic and paprika will fill your kitchen, signaling the comfort this dish promises.
Make the Creamy Sauce
In a skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream or almond milk, then stir in shredded cheese until melted and smooth. Season generously with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika. The sauce should be velvety and silky, coating every spoonful with warmth and richness.
Assemble and Bake
Combine the shredded chicken with the sauce and transfer everything to your baking dish—preferably a casserole or shallow ovenproof dish. Top with a sprinkle of cheese and a dash of paprika for color. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, until bubbly and golden. The cheese on top will form a crispy, cheesy crust that offers a delightful texture contrast.
6. Expert Tips for Success
- Use leftover cooked chicken for an even faster meal.
- If the sauce thickens too much during baking, stir in a splash of almond milk or chicken broth.
- For extra flavor, add sliced mushrooms or roasted broccoli to the casserole before baking.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking dish; this ensures even cooking and bubbly cheese.
7. Variations & Substitutions
If dairy is a concern, swap out the cheese for dairy-free shredded cheese and coconut cream for the sauce. For a spicy kick, add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes. Looking for a lower fat option? Use part-skim shredded mozzarella or cottage cheese in the sauce. Vegetarian? Substitute chicken with sautéed cauliflower or mushrooms for a satisfying, low-carb veggie bake.
8. Storage & Reheating
Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in 30-second bursts or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until bubbling and hot. The casserole might lose some of its crispiness on top, but popping it under the broiler for a minute can restore some of that cheesy crust.
9. FAQ
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake it the next day, adding about 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time.
Is this really low carb?
Yes, this recipe uses ingredients like heavy cream and cheese rather than bread or starchy vegetables, keeping it low carb. Feel free to substitute with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles if you want even fewer carbs.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this creamy low carb chicken casserole freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
10. Conclusion
This creamy low carb chicken casserole is a comforting, delicious dish that doesn’t compromise your dietary goals. With its rich flavors, crispy cheese topping, and versatility, it’s sure to become a household favorite. Give it a try, customize it to your taste, and enjoy a hearty meal without the carbs. Happy cooking!
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Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole
A deliciously creamy low carb chicken casserole combining tender chicken, cheese, and vegetables baked to perfection.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked cauliflower florets
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, cauliflower, green onions, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well until evenly combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and spread evenly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Garnish with additional green onions before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute cooked turkey or chicken sausage for added flavor.
- Use full-fat cream cheese for creamier texture.
- Great served with a side of leafy greens or a fresh salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low carb, Keto friendly
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320 Kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
