Quick Description
This Zero Carb Baked Creamy Broccoli and Chicken is rich, comforting, and incredibly satisfying while keeping carbs at zero. Made with just four main ingredients, it delivers tender chicken, soft broccoli, and a thick, cheesy cream sauce that bakes into a cozy, filling meal. Perfect for keto, low-carb, or anyone craving a creamy dinner without complicated prep.
Servings & Timing
- Servings: 4–6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Bake Time: 30–35 minutes
- Total Time: ~40–45 minutes
Ingredients List (Exact Measurements)
Main Ingredients (4 total):
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cooked and chopped
- 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, thawed and fully drained)
- 1½ cups heavy whipping cream
- 1½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
Optional Seasonings (Do Not Add Carbs):
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
Instructions
-
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish. -
Prepare the Base
Spread the cooked, chopped chicken evenly across the bottom of the baking dish. Add the broccoli florets on top and gently mix. -
Add the Cream
Pour the heavy whipping cream evenly over the chicken and broccoli. If using seasonings, sprinkle them in now. -
Top with Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the entire dish. -
Bake
Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top. -
Rest & Serve
Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken and set.
Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 42 g
- Fat: 34 g
- Carbs: 0–2 g (trace carbs from broccoli)
- Fiber: 1 g
Why This Recipe Works
- Zero Carb Friendly: Uses heavy cream and cheese instead of flour or starch
- High Protein: Chicken keeps it filling and satisfying
- Minimal Ingredients: Simple, affordable, and pantry-friendly
- One Dish Meal: Easy cleanup and no complicated steps
Ingredient Tips & Choices
Chicken
Chicken thighs give a richer, juicier result. Chicken breast keeps it lighter. Both work perfectly.
Broccoli
Fresh broccoli gives the best texture. If using frozen, drain extremely well to avoid watery sauce.
Heavy Cream
Essential for thickness. Milk or half-and-half will thin the sauce and add carbs.
Cheese
Cheddar adds sharp flavor. Mozzarella adds stretch and creaminess. A blend gives the best balance.
Variations & Add-Ins (Still Low Carb)
- Add cooked mushrooms for extra richness
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time
- Sprinkle extra cheese halfway through baking for a thicker crust
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Reheat: Oven or microwave until hot
- Meal Prep Friendly: Holds texture very well for leftovers
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble, cover, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely. Just remove skin and chop.
Is this really zero carb?
Yes, aside from trace carbs naturally found in broccoli.
Optional Personal Note
This is one of those recipes that feels indulgent but fits perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle. It’s warm, creamy, and filling without needing anything fancy — just real ingredients that work.
