Name: Creamy Chicken Broccoli and Cheese Casserole {Low-carb/Keto Friendly!} Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 17 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless chicken, cut into pieces; 20 oz broccoli florets, cut into bite-size pieces; 1 tbsp oil; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated; 1/2 tsp garlic salt; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 14 reviews

I absolutely love sharing this Creamy Chicken Broccoli and Cheese Casserole {Low-carb/Keto Friendly!} Recipe because it combines some of my favorite comfort food elements into one warm, satisfying dish that never fails to impress. It’s rich and cheesy, with tender chicken and perfectly cooked broccoli all brought together in a creamy sauce that’s just the right balance of indulgent and wholesome. I find it incredibly simple to prepare, making it a go-to meal whenever I want something delicious yet fuss-free, especially when sticking to a low-carb or keto lifestyle.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Broccoli and Cheese Casserole {Low-carb/Keto Friendly!} Recipe

What truly excites me about this casserole is the marvelous flavor profile. The juicy, golden-brown chicken pieces provide a savory base, while the broccoli adds a fresh crunch that complements the creamy sauce perfectly. The blend of Parmesan and mozzarella cheese melts into a divine topping that’s cheesy without overwhelming the dish. It’s comfort food with a light, healthy twist, and I enjoy savoring every bite because it feels indulgent yet nourishing at the same time.

Another reason I adore this recipe is how incredibly easy it is to prepare. You can get everything done in under half an hour, with minimal chopping and quick baking. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when I want something hearty but without spending hours in the kitchen. On top of that, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or casual gatherings because it tastes like a special occasion dish but is simple enough for everyday enjoyment. The balance of flavors and textures is spot on, making this recipe a standout in my rotation of low-carb meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A cast iron pan filled with many small pieces of raw, light pink chicken spread across its surface, some gently steaming as they cook on a black stove. A gray spatula is inside the pan, pushing the chicken pieces slightly. The pan is dark with a shiny blue handle, and the stove has black grates under the pan. To the right of the stove, there is a white marbled countertop. The overall scene shows the beginning stages of cooking chicken chunks. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in creating a creamy, flavorful, and satisfying casserole. They’re simple staples that come together beautifully, contributing taste, texture, and a lovely color contrast to the final dish.

1 tbsp oil: I use this to get that perfect golden sear on the chicken, locking in flavor.
1 lb boneless chicken: This is the protein-packed star of the dish, tender and juicy once cooked.
20 oz broccoli florets: Broccoli brings vibrant color and a fresh, slightly crisp texture that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
1 cup heavy cream: It’s the rich base of the sauce, adding luscious creaminess that ties everything together.
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese: I add this for a sharp, salty bite that deepens the savory flavor.
1/2 tsp garlic salt: Just enough seasoning to enhance the whole dish without overpowering the other flavors.
1 cup mozzarella cheese: Melted on top, it forms a gooey, golden crust that makes the casserole irresistible.

Directions

Step 1: Heat the oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the boneless chicken pieces and cook them until they turn golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. This step builds the base flavor and ensures juicy chicken.

Step 2: While the chicken is cooking, cut your broccoli florets into bite-sized pieces if they aren’t already. Once the chicken is nicely browned, add the broccoli directly into the skillet, mixing them together so the broccoli starts to soften a bit.

Step 3: In a separate bowl, combine the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and garlic salt. Stir until well mixed. Pour this creamy sauce evenly over the chicken and broccoli, letting it coat everything beautifully.

Step 4: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the skillet in the oven and bake for 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Remove the skillet from the oven and sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 7 minutes or until the cheese is melted and just starting to turn golden brown.

Step 6: Serve the casserole immediately while the cheese is melted and gooey, ensuring the best texture and flavor in every bite.

Servings and Timing

This recipe comfortably serves 8 people, making it great for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week. The prep time is about 10 minutes, mostly to chop the broccoli and get the chicken cooking. Cooking and baking time combined is roughly 17 minutes, so your total time in the kitchen is under 30 minutes. There’s no resting time required, but I like letting it cool for a couple of minutes after baking so the casserole sets slightly and is easier to serve.

How to Serve This Creamy Chicken Broccoli and Cheese Casserole {Low-carb/Keto Friendly!} Recipe

A top view of a dark blue cast iron pan filled with a creamy chicken and broccoli dish. It has three layers: a thick white creamy sauce at the base, chunky pieces of light brown cooked chicken and bright green broccoli florets spread evenly on top, and a sprinkling of shredded white cheese covering the surface. The pan sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

When I serve this casserole, I love pairing it with a fresh green salad to add brightness and balance out the richness of the dish. A simple side of steamed asparagus or roasted Brussels sprouts also complements the cheesy flavors nicely without adding carbs. For garnishing, I like to sprinkle a little extra Parmesan or some chopped fresh parsley on top—it adds a little color and fresh aroma that instantly makes the dish feel special.

This casserole is best enjoyed hot or warm, right out of the oven, when the cheese is perfectly melted and the sauce is still creamy. For presentation, I use a rustic skillet or bake it in a ceramic dish and spoon individual portions onto plates, making it easy to serve family-style or at a casual dinner party.

Beverage-wise, I’m all about pairing the casserole with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a lightly oaked Chardonnay—both cut through the richness beautifully. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with a wedge of lemon or an herbal iced tea provides a refreshing complement. I’ve also served this at holiday dinners and casual weeknights alike, and it’s always a hit, making it incredibly versatile.

Variations

I love experimenting with this recipe to suit different tastes and dietary needs. If you want to switch things up, try using different types of cheese such as gouda or fontina for a nuttier, creamier flavor. If you prefer a bit of a kick, adding some red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the sauce gives it a delightful spicy twist.

For those who need this to be gluten-free, you’re in luck because this recipe is naturally free from gluten ingredients—no bread crumbs or flour needed here! Though I haven’t tried a vegan version myself, you could substitute the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh and use plant-based cream and cheese alternatives, adjusting seasonings to taste. Just expect a slightly different texture but still delicious!

Cooking methods can also vary: while I love using an oven-safe skillet because it simplifies clean-up, you can also assemble everything in a baking dish if that’s easier. Some days I even start the chicken in a pan and transfer everything to a casserole dish for baking, which works just as well.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying the casserole, I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Glass containers with tight-fitting lids work best because they prevent moisture loss and maintain flavor. The leftovers keep well for up to 3-4 days, making this recipe great for meal prep or quick lunches throughout the week.

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully, which is a huge bonus. I recommend portioning it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags. Be sure to cool the dish completely before freezing to preserve texture and flavor. When frozen properly, it stays fresh for up to 2 months. Just label your containers with the date to keep track.

Reheating

To reheat, I prefer the oven because it helps maintain the casserole’s creamy texture and allows the cheese on top to regain some of its meltiness. Preheat the oven to 350°F and bake the leftovers in an oven-safe dish for about 15-20 minutes, covered loosely with foil to prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the chicken rubbery and the broccoli mushy. If you must use a microwave, reheat on medium power and add a splash of cream to restore moisture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for this casserole?

Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw and drain the broccoli well to avoid excess water in the casserole, which could make it watery. I often blot it dry with paper towels before adding it to the dish.

What’s the best type of chicken to use?

I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; both work well. Thighs are a little juicier and more flavorful, while breasts have a leaner texture. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

Can I make this ahead of time and bake later?

Definitely! You can prepare the skillet up to Step 4, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just pop it in the oven and finish Steps 4 and 5 as usual.

Is this casserole suitable for a keto diet?

Absolutely. It’s low in carbs due to the use of broccoli and no flour-based thickeners, plus the heavy cream and cheeses provide plenty of fat, making it perfect for keto or low-carb lifestyles.

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Sure! Mushrooms, cauliflower, or even spinach would be fantastic additions. Just be mindful of the moisture content they add and adjust baking times slightly if needed.

Conclusion

I’m genuinely excited for you to try this Creamy Chicken Broccoli and Cheese Casserole {Low-carb/Keto Friendly!} Recipe because it’s one of my all-time favorites when I want something comforting, flavorful, and wholesome all at once. Whether you’re new to low-carb cooking or just looking for an easy, crowd-pleasing dinner, this casserole delivers every time. I hope it becomes a cherished recipe in your kitchen, just as it is in mine!