Description
This easy low carb chicken casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and hearty keto dinner that comes together in just 30 minutes. Packed with chicken, veggies, and a rich cheese sauce, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped
- 2 cups cauliflower rice
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste (about 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp pepper)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and season with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes until just cooked through and lightly browned. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add chopped onion (if using), minced garlic, broccoli florets, and cauliflower rice. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until veggies are just tender. Drain any excess liquid if needed.
- In a medium bowl, blend softened cream cheese, heavy cream, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper until smooth.
- Return chicken to the skillet with the veggies. Pour the cream cheese mixture over and stir until everything is well coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the top.
- Transfer the skillet (or mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish) to the oven. Bake uncovered for 15-18 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden spots. Cover loosely with foil if cheese browns too quickly.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
For best results, sauté veggies before baking to avoid excess moisture. Use room temperature dairy for a smooth sauce. Grate your own cheese for optimal melting. Let the casserole rest before serving for cleaner slices. This recipe is easily customizable—swap in your favorite veggies or cheeses, or use rotisserie chicken for a shortcut. Leftovers store well and taste even better the next day.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1/6th of the casserole
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 650
- Fat: 21
- Saturated Fat: 11
- Carbohydrates: 6
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 28
Keywords: low carb, keto, chicken casserole, easy dinner, gluten-free, healthy, meal prep, cheesy casserole, quick dinner, family meal