Easy Low-Carb Chicken Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Easy Low-Carb Chicken Casserole
Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dinner that won’t derail your healthy eating plan? Look no further than this Easy Low-Carb Chicken Casserole! This dish combines tender chicken with a creamy sauce and topped with cheesy goodness, making it a comforting meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.
A Personal Story Behind My Easy Low-Carb Chicken Casserole Journey
Growing up, my family often gathered around the table for hearty dinners, and casseroles were a staple in our household. This Easy Low-Carb Chicken Casserole holds a special place in my heart as it reminds me of those warm family dinners. I remember my mother preparing this dish, and it quickly became a favorite among my family. Now, I enjoy making it for my loved ones, ensuring that they also experience that comforting warmth.
What Makes This Easy Low-Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe Special?
This casserole stands out not just for its flavor but also for its low-carb content, making it a great choice for those watching their carbohydrate intake. The combination of mayonnaise and sour cream in the sauce creates a rich and creamy texture, while the addition of sharp cheddar cheese elevates the dish to a whole new level of deliciousness. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, requiring only 45 minutes from start to finish!
The Full Easy Low-Carb Chicken Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- Chicken:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (8 ounces each; 32 ounces total)
- Avocado oil spray
- 1/2 teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt (or 1/4 teaspoon of any other salt)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (1/3 cup for a creamier casserole)
- 1/4 cup sour cream (1/3 cup for a creamier casserole)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt (or 1/4 teaspoon of any other salt)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)
- Topping:
- 1/4 cup scallions, sliced (green parts only)
- 1/4 cup bacon bits, room temperature
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C). Line a rimmed baking dish with foil and grease the foil. Place the chicken breasts in the prepared pan. Spray them with avocado oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake for about 20 minutes until cooked through. Tip: Make sure the chicken is thoroughly cooked by checking it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Grease a 2-quart casserole dish. In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, pepper, dried thyme, paprika, cayenne, and 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar. Tip: Mixing these ingredients well will ensure a uniform flavor throughout the casserole.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven but keep the oven on. Let the chicken cool slightly, then cut it into cubes or shred it. Add the chicken to the bowl with the sauce mixture and toss to coat.
- Transfer the coated mixture to the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar on top. Bake for about 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and the casserole is heated through.
- Sprinkle the casserole with sliced scallions and bacon bits. Serve hot. Tip: For a crispier topping, broil the casserole for a minute or two after baking.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Easy Low-Carb Chicken Casserole
This Easy Low-Carb Chicken Casserole is perfect for serving alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. If you want to mix things up, consider adding diced tomatoes or jalapeños for an extra kick. You can also serve it over cauliflower rice for an additional low-carb option. This dish can easily be customized to include your favorite toppings!
Frequently Asked Questions About Easy Low-Carb Chicken Casserole
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
How can I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Is this casserole gluten-free? Yes, all the ingredients used in this recipe are gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Easy Low-Carb Chicken Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 breasts boneless skinless chicken 8 ounces each; 32 ounces total
- 0.5 teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt or 1/4 teaspoon of any other salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.25 cup mayonnaise 1/3 cup for a creamier casserole
- 0.25 cup sour cream 1/3 cup for a creamier casserole
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh garlic minced
- 0.5 teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt or 1/4 teaspoon of any other salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
- 0.5 teaspoon paprika
- 0.25 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese divided
- 0.25 cup scallions sliced (green parts only)
- 0.25 cup bacon bits room temperature
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C). Line a rimmed baking dish with foil and grease the foil. Place the chicken breasts in the prepared pan. Spray them with avocado oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake for about 20 minutes until cooked through.
- Grease a 2-quart casserole dish. In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, pepper, dried thyme, paprika, cayenne, and 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven but keep the oven on. Let the chicken cool slightly, then cut it into cubes or shred it. Add the chicken to the bowl with the sauce mixture and toss to coat.
- Transfer the coated mixture to the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar on top. Bake for about 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and the casserole is heated through.
- Sprinkle the casserole with sliced scallions and bacon bits. Serve hot.