Description
This Easy Low Carb Chicken Casserole is a creamy, flavorful dish perfect for those following a low-carb lifestyle. Tender chicken breasts are coated with a savory sauce made from mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, and spices, then baked with sharp cheddar cheese until bubbly and golden. Finished with scallions and crispy bacon bits, this casserole makes a satisfying and wholesome meal that’s quick to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (8 oz each, 32 oz total)
- Avocado oil spray
- ½ teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt (or ¼ teaspoon regular salt)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Sauce
- ¼ cup mayonnaise (or up to ⅓ cup for a creamier casserole)
- ¼ cup sour cream (or up to ⅓ cup for a creamier casserole)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt (or ¼ teaspoon regular salt)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ½ cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)
Topping
- ½ cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (remaining half)
- ¼ cup scallions (green parts only), sliced
- ¼ cup bacon bits (room temperature)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly spray a casserole dish with avocado oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare chicken: Lightly season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Optionally, sear them in a skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly browned to enhance flavor.
- Make the sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, pepper, dried thyme, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese (½ cup) until well mixed.
- Assemble casserole: Place the chicken breasts evenly in the prepared casserole dish. Spread the prepared sauce evenly over the chicken to ensure every piece is coated.
- Add cheese topping: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese (½ cup) over the sauced chicken to create a cheesy crust.
- Bake: Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) ensuring it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven. Immediately sprinkle with sliced scallions and room temperature bacon bits to add freshness and crispy texture.
- Rest and serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld and juices redistribute for the best texture.
Notes
- Searing chicken before baking is optional but adds extra flavor and texture.
- Mayonnaise and sour cream quantities can be increased slightly for a creamier casserole.
- Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Use Diamond Crystal kosher salt if available for accurate seasoning measurements.
- This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete low-carb meal.
