Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole

This Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is a delicious, comforting meal that satisfies without the extra carbs. Packed with tender chicken breasts and a rich, creamy sauce made with mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, and cheddar cheese, this dish is an ideal choice for anyone following a low-carb or keto-friendly lifestyle. With bold flavors and a creamy, cheesy texture, it proves that eating low carb doesn’t mean sacrificing taste or satisfaction.

What makes this casserole stand out is its simplicity. With minimal prep and everyday ingredients, it’s the kind of recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or feeding a family. The seasonings—including paprika, garlic, thyme, and a hint of cayenne—bring layers of flavor that balance the richness of the sauce. Optional toppings like bacon bits and scallions add a savory crunch and extra depth. Whether you’re watching your carbs or just want a creamy, hearty chicken dish, this casserole is bound to become a repeat favorite. It’s easy to customize, easy to prepare, and even easier to love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Low in Carbs, High in Flavor

Perfect for keto and low-carb diets, this casserole delivers comforting flavors without the carbs.

Creamy and Satisfying

The sauce is rich and velvety thanks to a blend of mayonnaise, sour cream, and cheddar cheese.

Quick and Easy

Minimal prep time and basic ingredients make this a go-to for busy weeknights.

Family Friendly

Its cheesy, savory flavor appeals to both kids and adults—even those not following low-carb diets.

Versatile and Customizable

Easily switch up the cheese, seasoning, or toppings to match your preferences or pantry availability.

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Ingredients

Chicken

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Avocado oil spray
• Kosher salt
• Black pepper

Sauce

• Mayonnaise
• Sour cream
• Dijon mustard
• Fresh garlic
• Kosher salt
• Black pepper
• Dried thyme
• Paprika
• Cayenne pepper
• Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Topping (Optional)

• Scallions, green parts only
• Bacon bits

Variations

Swap the Protein

Use shredded rotisserie chicken, turkey, or even cooked ground chicken for convenience.

Make It Spicier

Add extra cayenne or a chopped jalapeño to the sauce for more heat.

Use Different Cheese

Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a twist on the flavor.

Add Veggies

Toss in some cooked broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms for added nutrition and texture.

Go Dairy-Free

Use dairy-free alternatives for the mayonnaise, sour cream, and cheese to make it suitable for dairy-sensitive diets.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray chicken breasts with avocado oil and season with salt and pepper. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until cooked through. Let rest, then shred or cube the chicken.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, pepper, thyme, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Stir until smooth and well blended.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

In a baking dish, mix the cooked chicken with the sauce. Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Spread evenly.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Optional Toppings

Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top. Add scallions and bacon bits if using.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 15–20 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly with a golden cheese topping.

Step 6: Serve

Remove from oven, let rest for a few minutes, and serve hot.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and texture.
• Let the chicken cool slightly before mixing with the sauce to prevent separation.
• Season the chicken well before baking for extra flavor throughout.
• Don’t overbake after assembling—just enough to melt the cheese and heat the casserole.
• For easy cleanup, line the baking dish with parchment or use a nonstick dish.

How to Serve

Serve this casserole on its own for a filling low-carb meal, or pair it with a green side salad, roasted cauliflower, or steamed broccoli. It’s also great alongside zoodles or mashed cauliflower for a complete keto dinner. For those not following low carb, it pairs well with rice or crusty bread on the side.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool the casserole completely and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

This casserole freezes well. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in a 350°F oven until hot throughout or microwave in portions. Add a bit of extra cheese or sauce if the casserole looks dry.

FAQs

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken saves time and adds extra flavor.

2. Is this recipe keto?

Yes, it’s low in carbs and high in fat, making it perfect for keto diets.

3. Can I prepare it ahead of time?

You can assemble the casserole a day ahead, refrigerate it, and bake just before serving.

4. What can I use instead of sour cream?

Plain Greek yogurt is a good substitute with similar texture and tang.

5. Can I omit the cayenne pepper?

Yes, leave it out for a milder flavor or adjust to your spice preference.

6. How do I know when the casserole is done baking?

It’s ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the dish is heated through.

7. What other toppings work well?

Crushed pork rinds or almond flour breadcrumbs make great crunchy toppings for extra texture.

8. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, thighs are flavorful and work just as well in this recipe.

9. Is it okay to use low-fat mayo or sour cream?

You can, but it may affect the creaminess and flavor slightly.

10. Can I cook the chicken in a skillet instead of baking?

Absolutely. Pan-sear the chicken until cooked through, then chop or shred for the casserole.

Conclusion

This Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is everything a home-cooked dinner should be—simple, flavorful, and satisfying. With minimal ingredients and a rich, creamy sauce, it delivers comfort food appeal while staying low in carbs. Whether you’re following a keto lifestyle or just want a wholesome weeknight meal, this casserole is easy to prepare, endlessly adaptable, and guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy it fresh or as a make-ahead meal for busy days, and savor every bite of this cheesy, hearty classic.

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