Keto chicken casserole is a comforting, cheesy, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for anyone following a low-carb or ketogenic lifestyle. The base of the casserole is typically made with shredded chicken, which provides a great source of lean protein. Whether you use leftover rotisserie chicken or cook the chicken fresh, the result is the same: a flavorful, filling meal that doesn’t spike your blood sugar. Since the casserole is made without pasta or traditional carbs, it’s an excellent way to enjoy a hearty, filling meal without worrying about your carb intake.
One of the best features of keto chicken casserole is its versatility. The creamy, cheesy sauce is made from heavy cream, cream cheese, and sour cream, which not only creates a rich, velvety texture but also packs in the healthy fats necessary for a ketogenic diet. Parmesan cheese is often added for extra flavor, creating a well-rounded and savory profile. The addition of garlic and Italian seasoning infuses the dish with herbs and spices, giving it a gourmet taste without being overly complex. For an extra kick, you can customize the recipe by adding cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or even a handful of spinach for some added greens.
Another benefit of this dish is that it’s a one-pan wonder, which means easy cleanup and no need to make multiple side dishes. With just a few ingredients, you get a complete meal that’s high in protein and fat, which are key macronutrients in a keto diet. The casserole can also be modified to suit various preferences or dietary restrictions. For example, if you’re looking to avoid dairy, you could swap the cream cheese for a dairy-free alternative, or use a vegan cheese blend for the topping. The broccoli or other low-carb vegetables (like cauliflower or zucchini) provide fiber and nutrients, making the dish not only keto-friendly but also nutritionally balanced.
When it comes to meal prep, keto chicken casserole is an absolute winner. It stores beautifully in the fridge for up to 4-5 days, making it a perfect dish for lunch or dinner throughout the week. In fact, the flavors may even deepen the next day, making it even more delicious after sitting overnight. You can easily double the recipe and freeze portions for later, ensuring you always have a satisfying, keto-friendly meal on hand when hunger strikes. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd, meal prepping for the week, or just looking for a quick, tasty dinner, keto chicken casserole is a recipe you’ll want to keep in regular rotation.
Keto Chicken Casserole Recipe
Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup broccoli florets (or any low-carb veggie of choice)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup diced onions (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or herbs of your choice)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp butter or olive oil for sautéing
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the chicken (if not using pre-cooked): You can roast, grill, or boil chicken breasts or thighs. Shred or dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Blanch the broccoli: In a pot of boiling water, blanch the broccoli florets for about 2 minutes, then drain and set aside. If using other veggies (like zucchini or cauliflower), you can prepare them similarly.
- Sauté the onions and garlic: In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp of butter or oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions (if using) and garlic, cooking until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Make the creamy sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, cream cheese, sour cream, and Parmesan cheese until smooth. Add the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, adjusting to taste.
- Assemble the casserole: In a large casserole dish, combine the cooked chicken, blanched broccoli, sautéed onions, and garlic. Pour the creamy sauce over the top and mix everything together until evenly coated.
- Top with mozzarella cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
- Garnish and serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley (optional) and serve hot.
Tips:
- You can add any low-carb veggies you like, such as spinach, mushrooms, or cauliflower.
- For extra flavor, you can add some cooked bacon bits or shredded rotisserie chicken.
- If you want a crispy topping, sprinkle some almond flour or crushed pork rinds on top of the cheese before baking.
