This cheesy chicken and broccoli casserole is a creamy, comforting bake that brings cozy flavor and weeknight ease to your dinner table.
Loaded with tender chicken, melty cheddar, and chopped broccoli in a rich cream sauce, this low-carb casserole offers irresistible flavor in every bite.
The Must-Haves for Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole
- Shredded chicken – Provides hearty protein and soaks up the cheesy cream sauce beautifully.
- Steamed broccoli florets – Adds vibrant color, gentle crunch, and a nutritious balance to the richness.
- Shredded cheddar cheese – The melty heart of the casserole, giving it that signature cheesy goodness.
- Butter – Forms the base of the sauce, lending rich flavor and silky texture.
- Onion – Sautéed for a mellow sweetness that complements the savory flavors.
- Minced garlic – Infuses the dish with aromatic depth.
- Heavy whipping cream – Thickens into a luscious, creamy sauce that ties it all together.
- Pork rind crumbs – A crunchy, low-carb topping that adds texture and bold flavor.
- Grated Parmesan cheese – Blends with the crumb topping to create a golden, savory crust.
Let’s Make It! Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole in a Few Easy Steps
Start by making the flavorful base: sauté onions in butter, then stir in garlic. Pour in heavy cream and let it simmer until thickened.
While the sauce cools slightly, combine the chicken, chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar, and seasonings in a mixing bowl. Pour in the creamy sauce and mix until everything is well coated.
Spoon the mixture into a prepared muffin tin and top each one with a crunchy blend of pork rind crumbs and Parmesan cheese.
Bake until bubbly and golden brown, then cool slightly before serving these bite-sized casseroles warm.
Creamy Tips & Cheesy Twists
To keep the sauce thick and rich, let it simmer gently and cool slightly before mixing—it helps coat the chicken and broccoli evenly. For even more flavor, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a splash of Dijon mustard to the cream sauce.
Not into pork rinds? Swap with crushed almonds or your favorite low-carb alternative. This dish is also a great way to use leftover rotisserie chicken or sneak in extra veggies like cauliflower or zucchini.
Storing the Goodness: How to Keep Leftovers Fresh
Let the casserole cups cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. They reheat beautifully in the oven or air fryer to crisp up the topping.
For longer storage, freeze them on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat from frozen at 350°F until warmed through and golden on top.
Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole Bite
Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups steamed broccoli florets finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cups shredded chicken
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ onion chopped
- ⅓ cup pork rind crumbs
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and coat a muffin tin with cooking spray.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the chopped onion until it turns translucent.
- Incorporate the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Pour in the heavy whipping cream, allowing it to simmer until it thickens into a sauce. Remove from heat and let it cool to thicken further.
- In a small bowl, blend the pork rind crumbs with grated Parmesan cheese and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, thickened sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
- Spoon the mixture into the prepared muffin tin, pressing down gently to pack each section fully.
- Sprinkle the pork rind and Parmesan mixture over the top of each portion.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the tops are golden and crisp.
- Allow to cool for 10 minutes before removing from the tin. Serve while warm.
