Rich Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole

Name: Rich Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2 lbs (900 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion (150 g), diced; 3 cloves garlic (9 g), minced; 1½ cups (360 ml) heavy cream; ¾ cup (180 g) full-fat cream cheese, softened; 1½ cups (150 g) shredded cheddar cheese; ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese; 1½ cups (135 g) chopped cauliflower florets; 1 cup (100 g) chopped spinach; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon paprika; ½ teaspoon dried thyme; ½ teaspoon onion powder; 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional)

Author: Michelle Davis

Published: 1 February 2026

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There are certain dishes that feel like a warm blanket on a quiet evening, and this rich, creamy low carb chicken casserole is one of them. It’s the kind of meal you make when you want something deeply satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Perfect for cooler nights, relaxed family dinners, or even meal prep for a busy week, this casserole delivers comfort while keeping things light and nourishing.

This recipe was inspired by classic baked casseroles that many of us grew up with—bubbling dishes pulled from the oven, filled with tender chicken and a velvety sauce. The difference here is that it’s thoughtfully updated for a low carb lifestyle, focusing on wholesome ingredients, balanced flavors, and a creamy texture that feels indulgent without being heavy. It’s proof that comfort food can still fit beautifully into a low carb way of eating.

Why This Low Carb Chicken Casserole Works So Well

This casserole succeeds because it balances richness with simplicity. Instead of relying on starchy fillers, it uses naturally low carb vegetables and a carefully seasoned cream-based sauce to create depth of flavor. The chicken stays juicy, the sauce is luxuriously smooth, and the baked top develops a lightly golden finish that makes every bite irresistible.

It’s also incredibly adaptable. Whether you’re cooking for family, serving guests, or preparing meals ahead of time, this dish holds up beautifully. The flavors deepen as it rests, making leftovers just as enjoyable—if not better—than the first serving.

Ingredients for Rich Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole

Using precise measurements ensures consistent results and makes the recipe easy to follow.

2 lbs (900 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion (about 150 g), finely diced
3 cloves garlic (about 9 g), minced
1½ cups (360 ml) heavy cream
¾ cup (180 g) full-fat cream cheese, softened
1½ cups (150 g) shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
1½ cups (135 g) cauliflower florets, chopped small
1 cup (100 g) fresh spinach, roughly chopped
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon onion powder
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional for garnish)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature allows the casserole to cook evenly, ensuring the chicken stays tender while the creamy sauce thickens gently without separating. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish with olive oil, making sure to coat the bottom and sides. This simple step prevents sticking and makes serving much easier later.

Next, place the cubed chicken breast into a large bowl. Sprinkle evenly with salt, black pepper, paprika, and onion powder. Toss the chicken thoroughly so every piece is well coated with seasoning. This step is essential, as it builds flavor from the very beginning rather than relying solely on the sauce. Even seasoning ensures that every bite tastes rich and balanced, not bland or uneven.

2. Sauté for Flavor

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is warm but not smoking, add the diced onion. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent. This slow sautéing process allows the natural sweetness of the onion to develop, adding depth to the casserole.

Add the minced garlic and stir continuously for about 30 seconds. Garlic cooks quickly, and this brief sauté releases its aroma without allowing it to burn, which could make the dish bitter. At this stage, your kitchen should already be filled with a warm, savory fragrance that signals the foundation of a comforting dish.

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3. Build the Creamy Sauce

Reduce the heat to low to prevent scorching, then pour in the heavy cream. Add the softened cream cheese in small portions, stirring gently as it melts into the cream. Patience is key here—slow melting ensures a smooth, velvety sauce without lumps. Continue stirring until the mixture becomes rich and uniform in texture.

Sprinkle in the dried thyme and give the sauce a taste. Adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding a pinch more salt or pepper depending on preference. This is the moment to fine-tune the flavor, as the sauce will carry the seasoning throughout the entire casserole. The result should be creamy, savory, and well balanced.

4. Combine the Casserole

Add the seasoned chicken directly into the skillet with the sauce, followed by the chopped cauliflower and spinach. Stir gently, making sure every ingredient is coated in the creamy mixture. The cauliflower adds subtle texture while keeping the dish low carb, and the spinach brings a fresh contrast that balances the richness of the sauce.

Once everything is evenly combined, carefully transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly using a spatula to ensure uniform cooking. This step helps prevent certain areas from drying out while others remain undercooked.

5. Add the Cheese Topping

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the top of the casserole, followed by the grated Parmesan. This cheese blend is intentional: the cheddar melts smoothly and adds richness, while the Parmesan creates a lightly crisp, golden finish during baking. Distributing the cheese evenly ensures every serving has the perfect balance of creamy interior and flavorful topping.

6. Bake to Perfection

Place the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. During this time, the chicken cooks through, the sauce thickens, and the cheese topping melts and browns slightly. You’ll know it’s ready when the casserole is bubbling around the edges and the top has a light golden color.

Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the sauce to set, making the casserole easier to slice and serve while intensifying the overall flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This low carb chicken casserole is satisfying on its own, but it also pairs well with simple sides. A crisp green salad, steamed green beans, or roasted zucchini complement the creamy richness beautifully. For a heartier meal, serve alongside mashed cauliflower or sautéed mushrooms.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Absolutely. Chicken thighs are an excellent option for this casserole and often result in an even juicier texture. Use boneless, skinless thighs and cut them into similar-sized pieces as you would chicken breast. Because thighs contain slightly more fat, the casserole may taste even richer, but it will still remain low carb. Cooking time remains roughly the same; just ensure the chicken is fully cooked before serving.

2. Is this casserole suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this recipe is ideal for meal prep. Once baked and cooled, portion the casserole into airtight containers and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The sauce thickens slightly as it sits, which many people find enhances the texture. When reheating, warm gently in the microwave or oven to maintain the creaminess without drying it out.

3. Can I freeze this low carb chicken casserole?

Freezing is possible, though cream-based dishes can sometimes change texture slightly. For best results, freeze the casserole after baking and cooling completely. Wrap it tightly or store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Stir gently if needed to re-emulsify the sauce.

4. How can I customize this casserole with different vegetables or flavors?

This recipe is very flexible. You can swap cauliflower for broccoli, mushrooms, or zucchini, keeping portions similar to maintain the low carb balance. For added flavor, try incorporating herbs like rosemary or basil, or a pinch of crushed red pepper for gentle heat. The key is to avoid vegetables with high moisture content unless they are lightly pre-cooked to prevent excess liquid in the casserole.

Final Thoughts

This rich creamy low carb chicken casserole is a reminder that comfort food doesn’t need to rely on heavy starches to feel complete. The combination of tender chicken, velvety sauce, and carefully chosen vegetables creates a dish that is both satisfying and nourishing. It’s the kind of recipe that quickly becomes part of your regular rotation because it’s dependable, flavorful, and easy to adapt to your preferences.