Keto Chicken Broccoli Casserole: A Creamy, Cheesy Delight!

Looking for a comforting, low-carb meal that’s packed with flavor and easy to make? This Keto Chicken Broccoli Casserole is the perfect solution! It’s creamy, cheesy, and loaded with tender chicken and broccoli. This recipe is a winner for busy weeknights or a satisfying weekend dinner. Best of all, it’s keto-friendly, meaning it’s low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats, helping you stay on track with your ketogenic lifestyle.

Why This Keto Chicken Broccoli Casserole Rocks:

• Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly: This recipe fits perfectly into a ketogenic diet, helping you stay in ketosis.
• Delicious & Satisfying: The creamy, cheesy sauce combined with chicken and broccoli is incredibly flavorful and filling.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this casserole is a breeze to prepare.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy this comforting and familiar dish.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready to eat.
• Versatile: Feel free to customize the ingredients to your liking. Add different cheeses, vegetables, or spices to create your own unique version.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• Chicken: Cooked and shredded chicken breast is the star of the show. You can use rotisserie chicken, leftover cooked chicken, or bake or poach chicken specifically for this recipe. About 2-3 cups of shredded chicken is ideal.
• Broccoli: Fresh or frozen broccoli florets work well. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the casserole to avoid a watery sauce. Approximately 1 pound of broccoli florets is needed.
• Cream Cheese: Full-fat cream cheese is essential for a creamy and rich sauce. 8 ounces of cream cheese, softened, is recommended.
• Heavy Cream: Adds richness and helps to create a smooth sauce. 1 cup of heavy cream will contribute to the desired consistency.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese provides a delicious cheesy flavor and melts beautifully. 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese are ideal, divided for the sauce and topping.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty and savory note to the casserole. 1/4 cup of grated parmesan cheese is sufficient.
• Garlic: Minced garlic adds a pungent and aromatic flavor. 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced, will enhance the overall taste.
• Onion: Diced onion adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor. 1/2 cup of diced onion is recommended.
• Butter: Used for sautéing the onion and garlic, adding richness to the sauce. 2 tablespoons of butter will provide the necessary fat and flavor.
• Salt & Pepper: To taste, for seasoning. Be mindful of the salt content of the cheese when seasoning.
• Optional: Bacon bits, Everything Bagel Seasoning, red pepper flakes for added flavor and texture.

Equipment You’ll Need:

• 9×13 inch Baking Dish: This is the standard size for casseroles, providing ample space for the ingredients.
• Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: Used for cooking the onion and garlic and melting the cream cheese.
• Mixing Bowls: For combining the ingredients.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Cutting Board & Knife: For chopping the vegetables.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Keto Chicken Broccoli Casserole:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This will prevent the casserole from sticking and make it easier to serve.
2. Prepare Broccoli: If using fresh broccoli, cut it into bite-sized florets. If using frozen, thaw it completely and drain well to remove excess moisture. This is crucial to prevent a watery casserole.
3. Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet or sauté pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Add the softened cream cheese to the skillet and stir until melted and smooth. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream until the sauce is creamy and lump-free.
5. Add Cheese and Seasoning: Stir in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
6. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, broccoli florets, and the creamy cheese sauce. Mix well to ensure that all ingredients are evenly coated.
7. Assemble the Casserole: Pour the chicken and broccoli mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
8. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. This will create a golden-brown and bubbly crust.
9. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and lightly browned.
10. Rest: Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly.
11. Serve: Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for the Perfect Keto Chicken Broccoli Casserole:

• Use Cooked Chicken: Using pre-cooked chicken, such as rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken, will save you time and effort.
• Thaw and Drain Frozen Broccoli: If using frozen broccoli, make sure to thaw it completely and drain it well to prevent a watery casserole. You can even squeeze out excess moisture with paper towels.
• Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Overcooked broccoli can become mushy. If using fresh broccoli, blanch it briefly before adding it to the casserole to ensure that it remains slightly crisp-tender.
• Use Full-Fat Ingredients: Using full-fat cream cheese and heavy cream will ensure a creamy and rich sauce. Don’t skimp on the fat!
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or other spices to suit your preferences.
• Customize with Different Cheeses: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gruyere, to create your own unique flavor profile.
• Add Bacon Bits: Bacon bits add a smoky and savory flavor to the casserole. Sprinkle them on top before baking for extra flavor and texture.
• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a touch of heat.
• Use Everything Bagel Seasoning: Sprinkle Everything Bagel seasoning on top of the casserole before baking for added flavor and texture.
• Make it Ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. This is a great option for busy weeknights.
• Reheat Leftovers: Leftovers can be reheated in the oven or microwave. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Variations:

• Chicken and Cauliflower Casserole: Substitute cauliflower florets for broccoli florets.
• Chicken and Spinach Casserole: Add a few handfuls of fresh spinach to the casserole mixture.
• Chicken and Mushroom Casserole: Add sautéed mushrooms to the casserole mixture.
• Spicy Chicken Broccoli Casserole: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
• Bacon Chicken Broccoli Casserole: Add cooked and crumbled bacon to the casserole mixture.

Serving Suggestions:

This Keto Chicken Broccoli Casserole is delicious on its own as a complete meal. However, you can also serve it with:

• A side salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing.
• Roasted vegetables: Roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or green beans.
• Keto-friendly bread or rolls: For soaking up the delicious sauce.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):

*Note: Nutritional information can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Use a nutrition calculator for more accurate information.

• Calories: 400-500
• Net Carbs: 5-7 grams
• Protein: 30-40 grams
• Fat: 30-40 grams

Printable Recipe Card

Keto Chicken Broccoli Casserole

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Servings: 6-8

Ingredients:

• 2-3 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast
• 1 pound broccoli florets, fresh or frozen (thawed and drained)
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup diced onion
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Bacon bits, Everything Bagel Seasoning, red pepper flakes

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. If using fresh broccoli, cut it into bite-sized florets. If using frozen, thaw completely and drain well.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Reduce heat to low. Add cream cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Gradually whisk in heavy cream until creamy.
5. Stir in 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese until melted and combined. Season with salt and pepper.
6. In a large bowl, combine chicken, broccoli, and cheese sauce. Mix well.
7. Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
8. Sprinkle remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese over the top.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and cheese is melted and browned.
10. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes:

• For a creamier sauce, use a hand blender to blend the sauce after melting the cheese.
• Add your favorite keto-friendly toppings like bacon bits, chopped nuts, or fresh herbs.

Conclusion:

This Keto Chicken Broccoli Casserole is a delicious, satisfying, and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for anyone following a ketogenic diet. It’s also a great way to get your family to eat their vegetables! With its creamy, cheesy sauce and tender chicken and broccoli, this casserole is sure to become a new family favorite. So, give it a try and enjoy a guilt-free, low-carb dinner that’s both comforting and flavorful.

Enjoy Your Keto Journey!

Remember to always consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before making any significant changes to your diet. Happy cooking!