Sometimes, you just need a dish that feels like a warm hug after a long day. This low carb chicken and broccoli cheesy casserole hits that spot with its gooey, cheesy goodness and hearty chicken chunks nestled among tender broccoli. It’s the kind of recipe where you don’t have to sacrifice flavor or satisfaction just to keep things light.
I remember the first time I tried making something like this. I had just gotten home after a chaotic afternoon, juggling calls and errands, and honestly, I wasn’t sure if I could pull off a decent dinner. I chopped the broccoli while the chicken warmed up, the kitchen filling with that unmistakable aroma of garlic and cheese melting together. At one point, I almost forgot to preheat the oven — classic me — but once it was baking, the bubbling sounds and golden crust forming on top made it all worthwhile. Sitting down to eat, that creamy mixture with just a hint of sharp cheddar made me forget the day’s chaos for a while.
- Delivers a creamy, cheesy experience without piling on carbs.
- Comfort food that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.
- The tradeoff? It’s rich — so a smaller portion usually satisfies.
- Uses simple ingredients you likely have on hand.
- Great for preparing ahead and reheating on busy nights.
If you’ve been unsure about casseroles because they feel too heavy or complicated, this one might surprise you. It’s straightforward, but still feels like something special when it comes out bubbly and golden from the oven.
PrintLow Carb Chicken and Broccoli Cheesy Casserole
A delicious and easy low carb chicken and broccoli casserole loaded with cheese, perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 1x
Ingredients
3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
4 cups fresh broccoli florets
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and immediately rinse with cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, cooked broccoli, sour cream, mayonnaise, heavy cream, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Add the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the mozzarella cheese to the mixture. Stir to combine.
Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish with olive oil.
Transfer the chicken and broccoli mixture to the casserole dish and spread evenly.
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top is golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Don’t worry about needing fancy tools here — a basic baking dish and a mixing bowl are all you really need. I usually serve this casserole with a fresh side salad or sometimes just as it is when I’m craving something simple and filling. You could swap in different cheeses if you want to experiment, though the combo of cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan works really well together. Sometimes I toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick, but that’s just me being a bit adventurous. Leftovers heat up nicely, too, so it’s a good candidate for making enough to have on hand later.
FAQ
Can I use frozen broccoli? You can, but it’s best to thaw and drain it well to avoid extra moisture.
Is it okay to use rotisserie chicken? Absolutely! It’s a great shortcut and adds flavor.
Can this be made dairy-free? I haven’t tried that myself, but swapping in dairy-free cheese and cream substitutes might work.
How long does this keep? Stored in the fridge, leftovers stay good for about four days.
Give this casserole a try next time you want something comforting yet light on carbs. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a little celebration in every bite, even on the busiest evenings.