This Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is a simple, hearty dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. It combines tender chicken with creamy cheese and a mix of vegetables, all baked to golden perfection. The low carb twist means it’s lighter but still packed with flavor and comfort.
I love making this casserole on busy weeknights because it comes together quickly and uses ingredients I almost always have on hand. One of my favorite tips is to add a little extra cheese on top so it gets that nice crispy, bubbly finish. It makes the whole dish feel extra special without much effort.
Whenever I serve this casserole, I like to pair it with a fresh green salad or some steamed veggies to keep things balanced. It’s one of those meals that feels warm and homey, and everyone always asks for seconds. I hope it becomes a go-to for you too when you need a tasty, low carb option that doesn’t take hours to make.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Using boneless, skinless chicken pieces cooks quickly and stays tender. You can swap for boneless thighs for a moister result.
Cherry tomatoes: They add freshness and a pop of sweetness. If unavailable, grape tomatoes or diced regular tomatoes work fine.
Cheeses: Cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan bring creamy texture and flavor. For a dairy-free option, try shredded vegan cheese blends.
Sour cream and mayonnaise: These keep the casserole creamy and rich. Greek yogurt can be a lighter substitute.
Seasonings: Garlic, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper give nice depth. Feel free to adjust herbs or add chili flakes for a kick.
How Do You Make Chicken Tender and Flavorful Before Baking?
Cooking chicken well before baking helps keep it juicy and tasty. Here’s how I do it:
- Heat your skillet over medium to medium-high heat.
- Cook chicken in olive oil or butter until it’s lightly browned but not fully done.
- Season during cooking to build flavor—salt, pepper, and paprika work well.
- Remove chicken just before fully cooked since it will finish in the oven. This prevents dryness.
This quick sear locks in juices and gives your casserole rich taste and tender chicken every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for cooking the chicken quickly and evenly before baking.
- Mixing bowl – to combine the creamy sauce and chicken easily without mess.
- 9×13-inch casserole dish – roomy enough to hold all ingredients and bake the casserole evenly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – helpful for accurate ingredient amounts to keep the dish balanced.
- Oven mitts – essential for safely handling the hot casserole dish when removing it from the oven.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for diced cooked turkey or cooked sausage for a different protein twist.
- Add chopped spinach or kale for extra green veggies and nutrients.
- Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne for a little heat and smoky flavor.
- Mix in some cooked mushrooms to boost earthiness and add texture.
Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Creamy Sauce:
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried parsley or 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for cooking chicken)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to bake, making a total of approximately 35 minutes. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Cook Chicken:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and paprika. Add them to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and nearly cooked through. Then remove from heat.
2. Mix the Creamy Sauce and Combine:
In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, half the cheddar cheese, and parsley. Stir until smooth. Add cooked chicken and cherry tomatoes to the bowl and mix well to coat everything in the sauce.
3. Assemble and Bake the Casserole:
Grease a casserole dish and spread the chicken mixture evenly inside. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese and the remaining cheddar cheese over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
4. Rest and Serve:
Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after removing from the oven. Garnish with extra parsley if you’d like, then serve warm and enjoy your delicious low carb chicken casserole!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Casserole?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw the chicken first. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the cold water method for quicker thawing. Pat the chicken dry before cooking to prevent extra moisture in the dish.
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through, stirring halfway to heat evenly.
What Are Good Side Dishes for This Casserole?
Since this is a low carb dish, pairing it with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or roasted asparagus works wonderfully to keep the meal balanced and nutritious.
