High-Protein Chicken Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Creamy, cheesy chicken and broccoli baked until golden and bubbly — high-protein, low-carb, and ready in 35 minutes
This high-protein chicken broccoli cheese casserole is pure comfort food made low-carb. Tender chicken and broccoli are coated in a rich, creamy cheese sauce and baked until the top is golden and melted. Every serving delivers 32 g of protein and only 4 g net carbs.
Completely sugar-free, family-friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Why you’ll love this casserole
- 32g protein per serving — a complete high-protein meal
- Only 4g net carbs and fully sugar-free
- Creamy, cheesy, and deeply comforting
- Ready in about 35 minutes
- One baking dish, easy cleanup
- Excellent for meal prep and leftovers
Health notes
- High protein: Chicken and cheese create a protein-packed base.
- Ultra low carb: Broccoli and a cream-cheese sauce keep net carbs very low.
- Sugar-free: No added sugar of any kind.
- Vegetable boost: Plenty of broccoli in every serving.
Key element — don’t overcook the broccoli
Slightly undercook the broccoli before assembling so it stays bright green and tender-crisp after baking instead of turning mushy.
Mary The High Protein Recipes
High-Protein Chicken Broccoli Cheese Casserole
- Prep10 min
- Cook25 min
- Total35 min
- Servings6 servings
- Calories340 kcal
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat and prep the broccoli. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly steam or microwave the broccoli florets until just tender-crisp (2–4 minutes). Drain well and set aside. If using frozen, thaw and drain thoroughly.
- Make the cheese sauce. In a large bowl or saucepan over low heat, combine the softened cream cheese, heavy cream, most of the shredded cheese, Parmesan, garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Assemble the casserole. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, drained broccoli, and cheese sauce. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated. Transfer to a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top.
- Bake. Bake 20–25 minutes until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and lightly golden. For extra browning, broil the last 1–2 minutes while watching closely.
- Rest and serve. Let the casserole rest 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.
Notes & Tips
- Slightly undercook the broccoli so it stays bright and tender after baking.
- Rotisserie chicken makes this recipe especially fast.
- For a thicker sauce, use a bit less cream or add an extra ounce of cream cheese.
- This casserole reheats beautifully and is ideal for meal-prep lunches.
- Let it rest a few minutes after baking so the sauce sets slightly for cleaner servings.
Variations & serving ideas
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- ½–¾ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1½–2 cups shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (divided)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2–3 garlic cloves, minced (or ½ tsp garlic powder)
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: ½ tsp smoked paprika or a pinch of red pepper flakes
- Turkey or leftover chicken: Any cooked chicken or turkey works.
- Dairy-free: Use dairy-free cream cheese and shredded cheese alternatives.
- Extra veggies: Add cauliflower or spinach with the broccoli.
- Spicy version: Stir in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- Extra cheesy: Add an extra ½ cup of shredded cheese to the sauce and on top.
- Cauliflower mix: Replace half the broccoli with cauliflower florets for variety.
- Bacon boost: Stir in cooked, crumbled bacon for extra flavor and protein.
- Spicy version: Add a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeños to the sauce.
- To finish:
- Extra shredded cheese for the top
- Fresh parsley or green onion for garnish
Storage
- Refrigerator: Up to 4 days (Covered; reheat in the oven or microwave)
- Freezer: Up to 2 months (Freeze before or after baking; thaw overnight in the fridge)
- Meal prep: Up to 4 days (Perfect for grab-and-go high-protein lunches)
Nutrition Facts
Per serving · makes 6 servings
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 340 kcal |
| Total fat | 20 g |
| Sodium | 520 mg |
| Total carbohydrate | 7 g |
| Fibre | 3 g |
| Protein | 32 g |
Nutrition values are approximate and vary with brands and portion sizes.
Frequently asked questions
Is this casserole keto-friendly?
Yes. At only 4g net carbs per serving it fits even strict keto plans.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes. Thaw and drain it very well so the casserole doesn’t become watery.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes. Assemble up to a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready, adding a few extra minutes if cold.
How do I keep it from being watery?
Drain the broccoli thoroughly and avoid overcooking it before assembling.
What can I serve with it?
A simple side salad or roasted non-starchy vegetables keep the meal low-carb and balanced.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes. Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or microwave.
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