Go Back
Cheesy Low Carb Chicken Casserole fresh out of the oven, bubbling with melted cheese.

Amazing Budget Cheesy Low Carb Chicken Casserole

This low-carb casserole features tender shredded chicken swimming in a rich, velvety cream sauce, topped with a golden blanket of bubbling cheese. It is a budget-friendly, high-protein weeknight hero designed to deliver maximum comfort flavor with minimal effort, making it faster than ordering takeout.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups Cooked Chicken, shredded or diced rotisserie recommended
  • 8 oz Full-Fat Cream Cheese, softened
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream
  • 1/2 cup Low Sodium Chicken Broth
  • 2 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese, freshly shredded for sauce
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese, shredded for topping
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Dried Italian Seasoning
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly Ground Black Pepper, to taste
  • Fresh Parsley or Chives, chopped for garnish

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch baking dish (or 2-quart casserole dish)
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk or hand mixer
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spatula
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a standard 9x13 inch baking dish or a 2-quart casserole dish.
  2. Spread the prepared cooked chicken evenly across the bottom of the greased dish.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Use a whisk or hand mixer to blend until the mixture is completely smooth and lump-free.
  4. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper to the cream base. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  5. Stir in the 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese (reserving the mozzarella) until the cheddar is fully incorporated into the cream sauce, creating a thick slurry.
  6. Pour the entire cream and cheese mixture over the chicken in the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to gently fold the chicken into the sauce, ensuring every piece is coated and the mixture is evenly distributed.
  7. Place the casserole dish into the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 15 minutes to allow the sauce to heat through and flavors to meld.
  8. After 15 minutes, remove the dish and sprinkle the 1 cup of mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden brown, and the edges are bubbling vigorously.
  9. Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest on the counter for 5 to 10 minutes. This resting period is vital for the sauce to set up properly.
  10. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives before serving.

Notes

For the smoothest texture, always grate your own cheddar cheese, as pre-shredded varieties contain anti-caking agents. Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to prevent lumps. For a smoky flavor boost, crumble 4-5 slices of crispy bacon into the sauce mixture before baking. This dish pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad or roasted Brussels sprouts.