Low Carb Chicken Casserole is a hearty, creamy, and protein-packed dish that delivers big on flavor without piling on the carbs. It’s the kind of warm and comforting meal that’s perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or whenever you want something satisfying but still light on starches. This recipe combines shredded or diced chicken with smoky bacon, fresh green vegetables, and a rich, cheesy ranch dressing base. Whether you opt for broccoli or spinach, the result is a deliciously layered bake that’s simple to prepare and easy to customize.
What makes this casserole stand out is its balance of rich flavor and low-carb ingredients. The tangy ranch dressing melds perfectly with sharp cheddar, melty mozzarella, and crispy bacon bits—creating a creamy texture with every bite. And because everything bakes together in one dish, cleanup is minimal. Whether you’re living the keto lifestyle or just trying to cut back on carbs, this dish fits seamlessly into your meal routine without sacrificing taste or comfort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Easy one-dish recipe with classic creamy, cheesy flavor
• Keto-friendly and naturally gluten-free
• Great for meal prep, reheats well for leftovers
• Customizable with your choice of greens and cheese blends
• Bacon adds an extra layer of smoky depth
Ingredients
Main Components
4 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
8 slices cooked bacon, chopped
5 cups broccoli florets, lightly blanched – or – 1 pound frozen spinach, thawed and drained
3 cloves garlic, finely minced
Creamy Mixture
1 cup ranch dressing
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Topping
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Optional Flavor Enhancers
1–3 teaspoons ranch seasoning mix (optional, for added flavor)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon paprika (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Base
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish and set it aside.
If you’re using frozen spinach, thaw it completely and squeeze out all excess water using a clean towel or cheesecloth.
If using fresh broccoli, blanch the florets in boiling water for 2–3 minutes until just tender, then transfer to an ice bath. Drain thoroughly and pat dry.
Step 2: Layer the Chicken
Evenly spread the cooked, shredded or diced chicken across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Make sure the layer is consistent so every bite has a good base.
Step 3: Add the Vegetables and Garlic
Top the chicken with your choice of blanched broccoli or spinach. Sprinkle the minced garlic evenly across the top for aromatic depth.
Step 4: Add the Bacon
Scatter the chopped, cooked bacon over the top of the veggies. Try to distribute it evenly so that every bite gets some of that smoky, savory crunch.
Step 5: Mix the Creamy Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine the ranch dressing with ½ cup each of mozzarella and cheddar cheese. If you’re using ranch seasoning mix or black pepper, add it to the sauce now. Stir until everything is well combined.
Step 6: Pour and Spread
Pour the ranch cheese mixture over the casserole, using a spatula to spread it evenly across the top and into the corners. Make sure the sauce reaches all the way to the edges.
Step 7: Initial Bake
Place the casserole dish in the oven and bake for 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and begin bubbling slightly before adding the cheese topping.
Step 8: Add Cheese Topping
Remove the casserole from the oven. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella and ½ cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top. For color and flavor, dust with paprika if desired.
Step 9: Final Bake
Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbling at the edges.
Step 10: Let It Rest
Remove from the oven and let the casserole sit for 5–10 minutes. This helps the layers settle and makes it easier to slice and serve.
Tips for Success
• Squeeze spinach thoroughly—too much moisture will water down the sauce
• Blanch broccoli just until bright green, then shock in ice water to preserve texture
• For extra richness, mix in a few tablespoons of softened cream cheese with the ranch
• Try swapping ranch with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a lighter version
• Add red pepper flakes or jalapeños for a spicy kick
Storage Options
• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days
• Freezer: Freeze portions in individual containers for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen or thaw overnight
• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven or in the microwave until heated through. Add a sprinkle of cheese before reheating to freshen it up
Low Carb Chicken Casserole is the kind of dish that fits just about any lifestyle—high-protein, low-carb, gluten-free, and family-friendly. It’s rich enough to feel indulgent, yet packed with ingredients that align with your health goals. Make a batch on Sunday and enjoy delicious, wholesome leftovers all week long.
