Why I Love This Recipe

I love this casserole because it checks all the boxes — it’s creamy, cheesy, low in carbs, and packed with protein and veggies. The ranch dressing adds a tangy, savory layer that blends beautifully with the chicken and broccoli, and the bacon brings in just the right amount of smoky crunch. It’s also super easy to customize, and I can mix everything in one dish to save time on cleanup.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Casserole Base

  • broccoli florets

  • cooked bacon, chopped

  • cooked chicken, shredded or diced

  • garlic, minced

  • shredded mozzarella cheese

  • shredded cheddar cheese

  • ranch dressing (I use Hidden Valley Original Ranch)

Topping

  • shredded mozzarella cheese

  • shredded cheddar cheese

Directions

  1. I preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C).

  2. If I’m using fresh broccoli, I blanch it in boiling water for 1–2 minutes until bright green, then drain it well.

  3. In a large mixing bowl, I combine the shredded chicken, chopped bacon, broccoli, minced garlic, ranch dressing, and half of the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. I stir everything together until fully mixed.

  4. I transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.

  5. I sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the top.

  6. I bake the casserole for about 15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

  7. After removing it from the oven, I let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 8 servings.

  • Prep time: 11 minutes

  • Cook time: 24 minutes

  • Total time: 35 minutes

Total calories for the entire casserole are 2350 kcal, which works out to around 294 calories per serving, depending on portion size and specific ingredients used.

Variations

  • Add Heat: I stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for some spice.

  • Extra Veggies: I mix in spinach, cauliflower rice, or bell peppers for added fiber and flavor.

  • Swap the Dressing: Sometimes I use Caesar or blue cheese dressing instead of ranch for a twist.

  • Dairy-Free Version: I use dairy-free cheese and a plant-based dressing to make it more allergy-friendly.

  • Herb Boost: I add dried parsley, dill, or Italian seasoning for a more herbaceous flavor.

Storage/Reheating

  • Fridge: I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

  • Freezer: This casserole freezes well. I portion it into containers, let it cool completely, and freeze for up to 3 months.

  • Reheating: I reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm larger portions in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. I just shred it and toss it in — no extra cooking required.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. I assemble the casserole, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to a day. When I’m ready to eat, I bake it as directed.

Is this keto-friendly?

Yes, this casserole is low in carbs and high in fat and protein, making it a great fit for keto and other low-carb diets.

What’s the best cheese to use?

I like using cheddar and mozzarella for a great melt and flavor combo, but Monterey Jack, provolone, or gouda work well too.

Can I skip the bacon?

Sure! If I’m avoiding pork, I leave it out or swap in turkey bacon or even crispy pancetta for a similar texture.

Conclusion

This Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is everything I want in a weeknight meal — fast, flavorful, and full of cheesy, comforting goodness. Whether I’m serving it fresh out of the oven or reheating leftovers for lunch, it’s a recipe I keep coming back to. Simple ingredients, bold flavor, and hardly any cleanup — what’s not to love?

Print

Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole

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This cheesy, protein-packed chicken casserole is loaded with broccoli, bacon, and ranch—perfect for a satisfying low carb dinner.

  • Author: Sarah
  • Prep Time: 11 minutes
  • Cook Time: 24 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

➤ Casserole

5 cups broccoli florets (lightly blanched if fresh)

8 slices cooked bacon, chopped into ½-inch pieces

4 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced into ½-inch pieces

3 cloves garlic, finely minced

½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup ranch dressing (e.g., Hidden Valley Original Ranch)

➤ Topping

½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (191°C).

Prep vegetables: If using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain. If using fresh, boil for 1–2 minutes until bright green, then drain.

In a large bowl (or directly in the casserole dish), combine cooked chicken, chopped bacon, broccoli, garlic, ranch dressing, and ½ cup each of mozzarella and cheddar. Stir well.

Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) casserole dish.

Sprinkle remaining ½ cup mozzarella and ½ cup cheddar evenly over the top.

Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Add ranch seasoning mix for an extra flavor boost.

Great for meal prep—store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.

For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños.

Swap broccoli for cauliflower for a variation.

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