If you’re on the lookout for a comforting, hearty dish that fits perfectly into a keto lifestyle, this Low Carb Chicken Casserole: A Delicious Keto-Friendly Recipe is an absolute winner. Imagine tender chunks of chicken mingling with savory mushrooms, crisp broccoli, and a luscious blend of cheeses all baked to bubbly, cheesy perfection. This casserole combines the best of flavor and nutrition without any of the carb overload, making it a go-to for dinners that satisfy your cravings while keeping things healthy and low-carb.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Low Carb Chicken Casserole: A Delicious Keto-Friendly Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each chosen to build a rich flavor profile and pleasing texture. From creamy cheeses to fresh vegetables and perfectly seasoned chicken, every component plays an essential role in making this dish memorable.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The protein star of the dish, cut into bite-sized cubes for even cooking and tenderness.
- Onion: Adds a natural sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- Garlic: Infuses a lovely aromatic warmth throughout the casserole.
- Mushrooms: Contribute an earthy flavor and meatiness that complements the chicken beautifully.
- Broccoli florets: Bring vibrant green color and a fresh, slightly crunchy bite.
- Cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty, it forms a golden, gooey topping.
- Monterey Jack cheese: Creamy and mild, it blends smoothly with cheddar for the ultimate cheese combo.
- Cream cheese: Gives the casserole its luscious creaminess and rich texture.
- Mayonnaise: Adds a tangy smoothness that helps bind the ingredients.
- Eggs: Essential for setting the casserole and holding everything together.
- Almond flour: A low-carb binder that also adds a subtle nutty flavor.
- Parmesan cheese: Grated into the mix for a savory boost and extra depth.
- Fresh parsley: Chopped for a fresh herbal pop and color.
- Dried thyme: Offers a gentle earthy aroma and flavor layering.
- Salt and black pepper: Classic seasonings to perfectly balance all the flavors.
- Olive oil: Used for sautéing to develop rich browning on the chicken and veggies.
- Chicken broth (optional): Just a splash if you want some extra moisture and juiciness.
How to Make Low Carb Chicken Casserole: A Delicious Keto-Friendly Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Cook the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then brown your chicken cubes until they have a golden crust all around. This step locks in flavor and keeps the chicken juicy. Cooking in batches ensures even browning without crowding the pan, so take your time and set the browned pieces aside once done.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Using the same skillet, soften the chopped onion until it becomes translucent and sweet. Then, add the garlic and mushrooms, cooking until the mushrooms release their juices and brown just slightly, which adds a fantastic umami punch. Finally, toss in the broccoli florets and cook briefly until they turn a vibrant green and soften just enough to be tender but still crisp.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Binder
While the veggies are cooking, whisk together softened cream cheese and mayonnaise in a medium bowl until smooth. Add eggs one by one, beating thoroughly after each to create a silky, combined mixture. This creamy base not only binds everything but also infuses the casserole with a rich, luscious texture.
Step 4: Combine Flavors
To your creamy mix, stir in almond flour, Parmesan cheese, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. These ingredients bring body, flavor, and a subtle nutty crunch to the casserole. Gently fold in the cooked chicken and sautéed vegetables, keeping the mixture uniform without overworking it. If you desire extra moisture, stir in chicken broth here to keep everything wonderfully juicy.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour the cheesy chicken and veggie mixture into a greased 8×8 inch baking dish. Generously sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until you see the cheese melted, bubbly, and lightly golden. For safety and perfect doneness, ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Finally, let the casserole rest a few minutes before serving—this helps everything set beautifully.
How to Serve Low Carb Chicken Casserole: A Delicious Keto-Friendly Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan right before serving brightens up the dish with color and a fresh herbal note. For an added punch, a few red pepper flakes can provide a gentle heat that complements the creamy, cheesy base without overpowering it.
Side Dishes
Pair this casserole with simple keto sides like a crisp arugula salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or roasted asparagus tossed in garlic butter. These fresh, green accompaniments balance the casserole’s richness and keep the meal low carb and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
This Low Carb Chicken Casserole: A Delicious Keto-Friendly Recipe can shine as a family-style centerpiece on the dinner table or be portioned into small ramekins for personalized servings at a dinner party. Adding a few decorative herb sprigs or a light drizzle of olive oil can elevate the presentation effortlessly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying this delicious casserole, pack any leftovers into an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld nicely overnight, making it even tastier the next day for an easy lunch or quick dinner.
Freezing
If you want to save this Low Carb Chicken Casserole: A Delicious Keto-Friendly Recipe for later, freezing is a great option. Cool the casserole completely, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. To thaw, transfer to the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Covering with foil in the oven helps prevent the top from over-browning while ensuring the inside stays creamy and moist. A quick stir halfway through reheating can redistribute the cheese and flavors evenly.
FAQs
Can I use frozen vegetables in this casserole?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli and mushrooms can be used if fresh aren’t available, but be sure to thaw and drain excess moisture first to avoid a soggy casserole.
Is this recipe suitable for other low-carb diets besides keto?
Yes, this dish fits well into any low-carb eating plan thanks to its focus on protein, healthy fats, and non-starchy vegetables.
Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Definitely! Turkey breast or even cooked ground beef can swap in for the chicken, offering a similar texture and flavor base.
What can I do if I don’t have almond flour?
You can try crushed pork rinds or coconut flour as keto-friendly alternatives, but adjust the amount slightly since they absorb moisture differently.
How spicy is this casserole?
This recipe is mild by default, perfect for all palates, but you can easily add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to bring in some heat.
Final Thoughts
There’s truly something special about this Low Carb Chicken Casserole: A Delicious Keto-Friendly Recipe that makes it a standout meal for anyone watching carbs without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re meal prepping or looking for a satisfying family dinner, this dish checks all the boxes. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making it week after week!
Print
Low Carb Chicken Casserole: A Delicious Keto-Friendly Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
This Low Carb Chicken Casserole is a flavorful, keto-friendly dish perfect for a comforting and healthy meal. Tender chicken pieces are sautéed with fresh vegetables like broccoli, mushrooms, and onions, then combined with creamy cheeses and almond flour before baking to golden perfection. With cheesy, savory goodness and a satisfying texture, this casserole is ideal for those following a low carb or ketogenic diet looking for an easy yet delicious dinner option.
Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chopped mushrooms (cremini or button)
- 1 cup chopped broccoli florets
Cheese and Dairy
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
Other Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional, for extra moisture)
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken in batches if necessary, and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté onion: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, approximately 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add garlic and mushrooms: Stir in the minced garlic and chopped mushrooms, cooking until softened and slightly browned, about 2-3 minutes.
- Cook broccoli: Add the chopped broccoli florets to the skillet and cook just until wilted, roughly 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Prepare creamy mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth and well combined.
- Add eggs: Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the cream cheese mixture, whisking thoroughly after each addition to ensure a smooth batter.
- Mix dry ingredients and herbs: Stir in the almond flour, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh parsley, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper until evenly combined.
- Combine chicken and vegetables: Gently fold the cooked chicken and sautéed vegetables into the creamy cheese mixture, making sure all ingredients are well blended.
- Add broth (optional): Stir in the chicken broth if using, to add extra moisture to the casserole.
- Transfer to baking dish: Pour the combined mixture into a greased 8×8 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Add cheese topping: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through, the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden. Use a food thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- Rest and serve: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking to set before slicing and serving warm.
Notes
- You can substitute broccoli with other low-carb vegetables like cauliflower or zucchini depending on your preference.
- Using chicken broth is optional but adds moisture and better texture to the casserole.
- For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes in the herb mixture.
- Make sure not to overcook the vegetables while sautéing; they should remain slightly crisp to retain texture after baking.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
