Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole: Delicious & Easy Keto Family Dinner

Struggling to find a meal that’s both deeply satisfying and fits your healthy lifestyle? You’re not alone. The search for a delicious low carb chicken casserole that the whole family will actually eat can feel endless, often leading to bland, uninspired “diet food.”

A low carb chicken casserole is a baked dish combining cooked chicken, low-carb vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower, and a rich, creamy sauce made from ingredients like cream cheese, heavy cream, and cheddar. It’s a popular keto-friendly meal because it’s high in protein and fat while being very low in carbohydrates, making it a perfect one-pan dinner.

Drawing from comprehensive analysis and tested recipe frameworks, this guide will change the way you see low-carb dinners. You’ll discover how to create incredibly flavorful, cheesy, and easy casseroles that feel like a comforting indulgence. Get ready to solve the “what’s for dinner” problem for good.

How Do You Make a Creamy and Delicious Low Carb Chicken Casserole?

The secret to an amazing low carb chicken casserole lies in a simple formula: a tender protein, the right low-carb vegetables, and a rich, binding sauce. Unlike traditional casseroles that rely on carb-heavy fillers like pasta or rice and canned soups full of flour, these keto chicken casserole recipes build flavor with high-quality, full-fat ingredients. By using a base of shredded cooked chicken combined with vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower rice, and a luxurious creamy cheese sauce made from cream cheese and cheddar cheese, you create a healthy chicken casserole that’s naturally gluten-free and grain-free. This approach not only supports a low carb lifestyle but delivers a truly comforting and delicious one-pan keto chicken meal perfect for any busy weeknight.

7 Delicious Low Carb Chicken Casserole Recipes for Easy Weeknight Dinners

Finding a single easy keto recipe is great, but having a variety of options is what keeps a healthy diet exciting and sustainable. This collection of chicken casserole recipes offers something for every craving, from savory and classic to spicy and adventurous. Each variation starts with a simple base of shredded cooked chicken but incorporates unique flavor profiles using delicious related ingredients like ranch seasoning, crispy bacon, or zesty salsa verde. Whether you need a foolproof keto chicken broccoli bake or want to try a more inventive low carb chicken bake, these seven tested recipes are designed to be family-friendly and perfect for your weekly meal rotation.

1. Bake a Cheesy Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

Pin this incredible bacon ranch recipe for your next weeknight dinner!

This cheesy chicken bacon ranch casserole keto recipe is the ultimate comfort food, blending savory flavors into one irresistible dish. The foundation of this easy keto recipe is tender shredded cooked chicken enveloped in a rich and creamy cheese sauce. The addition of sugar-free ranch seasoning provides a tangy, herbaceous kick that perfectly complements the salty crunch of crumbled bacon and the gooey, melted cheddar cheese. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that comes together quickly for a stress-free meal.

Ingredients

• 3 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
• 8 ounces full-fat cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 packet (1 ounce) sugar-free ranch seasoning mix
• 8 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×9 inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and ranch seasoning mix. Mix until smooth.
3. Gently fold in the shredded chicken and half of the crumbled bacon.
4. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
5. Top with the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, and the remaining crumbled bacon.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden.
7. Garnish with fresh chives before serving.

Pro-Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, try using a smoked cheddar cheese. My testing shows this pairs exceptionally well with the smokiness of the bacon.

2. Prepare a Classic Keto Chicken Broccoli Casserole

Save this classic comfort food recipe to your Keto Dinners board!

The combination of chicken + broccoli is timeless for a reason, and this easy keto chicken and broccoli bake is the epitome of healthy comfort food. This recipe uses frozen broccoli florets for convenience but includes a crucial step to ensure the final dish is creamy, not watery. The low net carb count makes it a go-to meal for anyone on a ketogenic diet, proving that simple, wholesome ingredients can create a deeply satisfying and cheesy dinner that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 4 cups frozen broccoli florets, thawed and drained well
• 3 cups shredded cooked chicken breast
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Ensure the thawed broccoli is patted very dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This is key to a non-watery casserole.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk the softened cream cheese, heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Stir in the shredded chicken, dry broccoli florets, and 1 cup of the cheddar cheese.
5. Spread the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until bubbly and the top is golden.

Expert Tip: To solve the common watery casserole fix, you can quickly steam or roast the broccoli florets for 5-7 minutes before adding them to the casserole. This removes excess water and improves texture.

3. Assemble a Spicy Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Casserole

Spice up your dinner routine! Pin this easy Enchilada Casserole recipe.

This low carb chicken enchilada casserole with cauliflower rice delivers all the bold, zesty flavor of your favorite Mexican dish without the carbs. By swapping tortillas for a hearty base of cauliflower rice, this recipe becomes a perfect grain free option for keto and gluten-free diets. The creamy sauce, enriched with cream cheese and low-sugar enchilada sauce or salsa verde, coats the chicken + cauliflower mixture beautifully, creating a satisfying and spicy bake that’s sure to become a new family favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
• 1 can (10 ounces) low-sugar red enchilada sauce or salsa verde
• 4 ounces cream cheese, cubed
• 2 cups cauliflower rice, steamed and patted dry
• 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chiles, drained
• 1.5 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
• Optional toppings: sour cream, sliced avocado, fresh cilantro

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet over medium heat, combine the shredded chicken, enchilada sauce, and cubed cream cheese. Stir frequently until the cream cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the dry cauliflower rice and diced green chiles.
4. Spread the mixture into a greased 8×8 inch baking dish.
5. Top evenly with the shredded Mexican cheese blend.
6. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the casserole is bubbling at the edges.
7. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving with your favorite toppings.

Lesson Learned: Don’t skip drying the steamed cauliflower rice. Excess moisture from the cauliflower is the number one cause of a watery casserole fix in this specific recipe.

4. Create a Creamy Low Carb Chicken Mushroom Bake

The ultimate comfort food! Pin this savory Chicken Mushroom Bake.

For a dish with a more sophisticated, earthy flavor, this low carb chicken mushroom bake with cream cheese is a perfect choice. This recipe transforms into a savory poultry pie of sorts by properly browning the mushrooms + onions to develop a deep, caramelized flavor before they are combined with the chicken. The key is to sauté them until they achieve a beautiful color, a process that creates incredible depth. This ketogenic supper is then bound with a creamy sauce and topped with nutty Gruyere cheese for an elegant yet easy meal.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 8 ounces baby bella mushrooms, sliced
• 1/2 small yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 6 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded Gruyere or Swiss cheese
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté the mushrooms and onions until they are browned and caramelized, about 8-10 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
3. In a large bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and chicken broth until a smooth sauce forms.
4. Stir in the shredded chicken, the sautéed mushroom and onion mixture, fresh thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Spread the mixture into a 9×9 inch baking dish.
6. Top with the shredded Gruyere cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.

Pro-Tip: Don’t crowd the pan when sautéing the mushrooms. Cooking them in batches ensures they brown properly (achieving the Maillard reaction) rather than just steaming, which is critical for a deep, savory flavor.

5. Layer a Low Carb Chicken Fajita Casserole

All the fajita flavor, none of the carbs. Pin this recipe now!

Enjoy all the sizzling flavor of fajitas in a simple, spoonable format with this low carb chicken fajita casserole no tortillas. This vibrant one-pan meal features the classic combination of seasoned chicken, colorful bell peppers, and sweet onions. Cream cheese melts into the mixture to create a light, creamy sauce that binds everything together, all before being topped with melted Monterey Jack. It’s a fantastic way to satisfy a fajita craving while sticking to a low-carb plan, with the added bonus of one-pan cleanup.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into thin strips
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp keto-friendly fajita seasoning (see Pro-Tip)
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed
• 1.5 cups shredded Monterey Jack or Colby Jack cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet or a bowl, toss the chicken strips, sliced peppers, and onion with olive oil and fajita seasoning until everything is evenly coated.
3. If not using an oven-safe skillet, transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Dot the top of the mixture with the cubed cream cheese.
5. Bake for 15 minutes. Remove from the oven and stir everything together until the melted cream cheese forms a light sauce.
6. Top with the shredded cheese and return to the oven. Bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Pro-Tip: Make your own homemade keto seasoning to control ingredients. Combine 1 tbsp chili powder, 2 tsp cumin, 1 tsp paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, and 1/2 tsp salt. It’s a game-changer for authentic flavors.

6. Indulge in a Rich Keto Chicken Alfredo Bake

All the Alfredo flavor you love, made keto! Pin this creamy bake.

This low carb chicken alfredo bake with broccoli is pure, decadent comfort in a dish. It captures the rich, creamy essence of a classic Alfredo pasta without any of the carbs. The homemade sauce, made with real heavy cream, garlic, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, is worlds better than anything from a jar. It creates an incredibly luxurious and filling casserole that proves you don’t have to give up your favorite Italian-inspired flavors on a keto diet.

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked, cubed chicken breast
• 2 cups steamed broccoli florets, well-drained
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Whisk in the softened cream cheese until the sauce is smooth.
4. Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 cup of the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted.
5. In a large bowl, combine the cubed chicken and steamed broccoli. Pour the Alfredo sauce over the top and toss to coat everything.
6. Spread the mixture into a 9×9 inch baking dish. Top with the mozzarella and the remaining 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the top is golden.

Expert Tip: When comparing homemade vs store-bought sauce, homemade always wins for keto. Jarred Alfredo sauces often contain flour or cornstarch as thickeners. Making your own takes 5 minutes and ensures it’s truly a low carb thickener-free, grain-less bake.

7. Bake a Savory Keto Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

A classic dish, deconstructed. Pin this easy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole!

This keto chicken cordon bleu casserole recipe deconstructs the classic French dish into an easy-to-make bake. It features all the signature components—tender chicken, savory ham, and nutty Swiss cheese—layered together and bound by a tangy, creamy sauce made with Dijon mustard. This recipe serves as a brilliant alternative to flour-based breadings, delivering all the beloved flavors of the original without the lengthy prep work or carbs. It’s a sophisticated yet simple meal perfect for a special weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked, cubed chicken breast
• 6 ounces deli ham, chopped (look for a sugar-free variety)
• 1.5 cups shredded Swiss cheese, divided
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8×8 inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cubed chicken, chopped ham, and 1 cup of the shredded Swiss cheese.
3. In a separate, smaller bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese, sour cream, Dijon mustard, thyme, salt, and pepper until you have a smooth, creamy sauce.
4. Pour the sauce over the chicken and ham mixture and stir gently until everything is well-coated.
5. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
6. Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of Swiss cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the casserole is heated through and the cheese on top is melted and golden brown.

Pro-Tip: In the chicken breast vs thighs debate for this recipe, chicken breast provides a more traditional, clean flavor. However, using shredded chicken thighs will result in an even more moist and tender casserole due to their higher fat content.

Key Takeaways: Your Quick Guide to Perfect Keto Casseroles

This section provides a scannable summary of the most crucial tips for making delicious and successful low-carb chicken casseroles. By focusing on proper ingredient preparation, understanding the role of fats, and leveraging smart shortcuts, you can ensure your casserole turns out creamy, flavorful, and perfect every time. These kitchen-tested takeaways distill the core principles from the recipes above into easy-to-remember points.
Key Takeaways:
* Start with Pre-Cooked Chicken: Using rotisserie chicken or leftover shredded cooked chicken is the ultimate shortcut for a quick and easy keto chicken dinner.
* Control Moisture for a Creamy Texture: The number one rule is to thoroughly dry any vegetables (especially thawed frozen broccoli florets or cauliflower rice) to prevent a watery casserole.
* Full-Fat is Key: Always use full-fat cream cheese, sour cream, and heavy cream. These ingredients provide the best flavor and create a rich, creamy cheese sauce without needing flour or starch thickeners.
* Don’t Be Afraid of Flavor: A simple base can be transformed with different seasonings. Experiment with ranch seasoning, taco seasoning, or fresh herbs to create endless low carb versions of your favorite meals.
* Cheese on Top Matters: For that perfect golden-brown crust, finish your casserole with a layer of good melting cheese like cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack and bake until bubbly.
* Meal Prep is Easy: Most of these casseroles can be fully assembled ahead of time. Just cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking for an even faster weeknight meal idea.

People Also Ask About Low Carb Chicken Casserole

Here are answers to some of the most common questions people have when making keto-friendly chicken casseroles. This section aims to resolve any lingering uncertainties about ingredients, preparation, storage, and troubleshooting, providing clear and authoritative information to help you succeed in the kitchen.

Can I freeze low carb chicken casserole?

Yes, you can absolutely freeze most low carb chicken casseroles. For best results, bake the casserole first and allow it to cool completely. Cover it tightly with a layer of plastic wrap and then a layer of aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F until heated through.

Why is my keto casserole watery?

The most common reason for a watery casserole is excess moisture from vegetables. Ingredients like zucchini, mushrooms, or frozen broccoli and spinach release a lot of water when cooked. To prevent this, it’s crucial to pre-cook these vegetables and drain them thoroughly, or pat them very dry with paper towels before adding them to the casserole mixture.

How do you thicken a low carb casserole sauce?

The best keto-friendly thickener for a casserole sauce is simply allowing it to reduce or adding more cheese. However, if you need extra thickening power, a small amount of xanthan gum (start with 1/4 teaspoon) or glucomannan can be whisked into the sauce. These are potent low-carb thickeners that mimic the properties of cornstarch without adding carbs.

Can I use rotisserie chicken for a casserole?

Yes, using a rotisserie chicken is one of the best time-saving hacks for making any chicken casserole. It’s already cooked, seasoned, and tender, which significantly cuts down on your prep time. Simply remove the skin, pull the meat from the bones, and you have perfectly shredded cooked chicken ready to go, making it a perfect one-pan cleanup solution.

How many net carbs are in a chicken broccoli casserole?

The net carb count can vary, but a typical keto chicken broccoli casserole has between 4-7g of net carbs per serving. This is calculated by taking the total carbohydrates and subtracting the fiber. The final count depends on the specific ingredients used, such as the amount of cheese, cream, and whether any onions or other slightly higher-carb vegetables are included.

What can I substitute for rice in a casserole?

The best low-carb substitute for rice in a casserole is riced cauliflower. It provides a similar texture and bulk, making the dish hearty and filling without the carbs. Other great grain free options include riced broccoli, shirataki rice (miracle rice), or simply adding more low-carb vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.

How long does it take to bake a chicken casserole?

A chicken casserole using pre-cooked chicken typically bakes for 20-30 minutes at 375°F (190°C). The goal is not to cook the chicken but to heat all the ingredients through, melt the cheese, and get the sauce hot and bubbly. If you are using raw chicken, the baking time will need to be extended to 45-60 minutes to ensure a safe internal temperature of 165°F.

Is cream of chicken soup low carb?

No, traditional canned cream of chicken soup is not low carb or keto-friendly. It contains flour, cornstarch, and added sugars which significantly raise the carb count. To get that same creamy flavor, it’s best to make a homemade sauce using cream cheese, heavy cream, and chicken broth as the base for your low carb chicken casserole.

How do I store and reheat leftover casserole?

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave for individual portions, heating in 60-second intervals until warm. For larger amounts, it’s best to reheat the casserole in an oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through, which helps maintain its texture better.

What cheese is best for a keto casserole?

The best cheeses for a keto casserole are firm or semi-hard cheeses that melt well and have zero or very few carbs. Excellent choices include cheddar, mozzarella, Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, Provolone, Swiss, and Gruyere. For a flavor boost, you can also add hard cheeses like Parmesan. Always check the label, as some pre-shredded cheeses contain anti-caking starches.

Final Thoughts on Your Next Favorite Keto Dinner

Making a delicious and healthy chicken casserole is one of the easiest ways to stick to a low-carb lifestyle without feeling deprived. As you’ve seen, the versatility is nearly endless. Once you master the basic formula of pre-cooked chicken, low-moisture vegetables, and a creamy, full-fat sauce, you can adapt these recipes to fit any flavor profile you’re craving. This easy keto chicken dinner isn’t just about following a recipe; it’s about empowering you with a reliable, kitchen-tested framework for creating satisfying meals.

• A Low Carb Chicken Casserole provides a simple, versatile, and delicious solution for busy weeknights.
• The core components—shredded chicken, cream cheese, and low-carb vegetables—can be adapted for endless flavor combinations.
• By focusing on moisture control and full-fat ingredients, you can consistently achieve a rich, creamy texture without the need for high-carb thickeners.

This collection of recipes proves that you don’t have to sacrifice comfort or flavor for health. Which recipe will you try first for your next family dinner?

Last update on 2026-02-18 at 17:08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API