Creamy Keto Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe

If you are craving a satisfying, comforting dish that stays true to your low-carb lifestyle, this Creamy Keto Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe is an absolute winner. Imagine tender chicken and fresh broccoli wrapped in a luscious, cheesy cream sauce, baked to golden perfection. This casserole combines simplicity with indulgence, making it a perfect go-to for busy weeknights or when you want to impress friends with minimal effort. Plus, it’s packed with wholesome ingredients that work together to deliver flavor, texture, and that cozy homemade feeling in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in delivering the creamy, cheesy, and mildly spiced experience that makes this casserole so addictive. From the protein-rich chicken to the rich cream, every element adds both taste and texture that come together effortlessly.

• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken: The star protein of the dish, tender and juicy to soak up that creamy sauce.
• 3 cups broccoli florets: Fresh or thawed, they bring a vibrant color and slight crunch to contrast the richness.
• 4 ounces cream cheese: Creates the luscious creamy base that thickens the sauce beautifully.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Adds richness and smoothness, helping the sauce coat every bite perfectly.
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty, it tops the casserole with that irresistible golden crust.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a gentle, aromatic depth to the sauce without overpowering.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a natural sweetness and mild savoriness that complements the chicken.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors so the dish tastes balanced and hearty.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right hint of warmth and spice.
• Optional ¼ teaspoon paprika or crushed red pepper flakes: For those who love a subtle smoky kick or a touch of heat.

How to Make Creamy Keto Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and greasing a 9×13-inch casserole dish. This simple prep step ensures your casserole won’t stick and helps achieve that lovely crust on top once baked.

Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli

If you’re using frozen broccoli, make sure it is thawed and well-drained to avoid extra moisture that could make the casserole watery. Chop any large florets into bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly and blend nicely throughout the dish.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the cream cheese and heavy cream together. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and velvety. This sauce will coat your chicken and broccoli, infusing every bite with rich, creamy goodness.

Step 4: Season Your Sauce

Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to the sauce. Give it a good stir and taste to adjust the seasoning as you prefer. This step is crucial because the sauce carries the flavors, so don’t be shy with seasoning.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Broccoli

In a large bowl, mix the shredded cooked chicken with the prepared broccoli florets. This combination forms the hearty filling of your casserole, creating the perfect balance of protein and veggies.

Step 6: Coat with Cheese Sauce

Pour the warm cheese sauce over the chicken and broccoli mixture. Stir well until everything is evenly coated. This step ensures that every bite delivers that signature creaminess you’re looking for in this casserole.

Step 7: Assemble in the Casserole Dish

Transfer your creamy chicken and broccoli mixture into the greased casserole dish. Spread it out evenly so it cooks uniformly and looks as inviting as it tastes.

Step 8: Top with Shredded Cheddar

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top. The cheese melts down and forms a beautiful golden crust that adds both flavor and texture.

Step 9: Bake Until Bubbly and Golden

Bake the casserole uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes. You want to see bubbling around the edges and a golden top—that’s when you know the Creamy Keto Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe is ready for the next step.

Step 10: Optional Broil for Crispiness

If you’re craving a crispy cheese topping, pop the casserole under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes. Keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn, but this step takes the dish from delicious to downright irresistible.

Step 11: Let It Rest Before Serving

Allow the casserole to sit for 5 to 10 minutes after baking. This resting time lets the sauce thicken slightly and makes serving easier—plus it tastes even better when it’s had a moment to set.

How to Serve Creamy Keto Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped parsley, chives, or even a pinch of paprika on top adds a pop of color and freshness that contrasts wonderfully with the rich creaminess.

Side Dishes

Serve this casserole alongside a crisp green salad or cauliflower rice for an easy low-carb meal. Light sides complement the hearty flavors without overwhelming the palate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, scoop portions into small ramekins for individual servings or turn leftovers into keto-friendly stuffed peppers or wraps for variety throughout the week.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Creamy Keto Broccoli Chicken Casserole tastes fantastic the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep its creamy texture and vibrant flavors intact.

Freezing

You can freeze this casserole before baking. Just cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.

Reheating

Reheat portions gently in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave until warmed through. To revive the crispy top, you can briefly broil after reheating—just watch it closely.

FAQs

Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked chicken?

Absolutely, but you’ll want to cook and shred the chicken before assembling the casserole. Using pre-cooked chicken just saves time and ensures your baking times stay accurate.

Is it okay to substitute the cheddar cheese?

Yes, feel free to use other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend if you prefer. Just remember that cheddar offers a nice sharpness and melts beautifully, so choose a cheese with good melting properties.

Can this recipe be made dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, you’d need to substitute cream cheese, heavy cream, and cheddar with dairy-free alternatives like cashew cream, coconut cream, and vegan cheeses, though the texture and flavor will vary.

How spicy is this casserole?

The base recipe is mild, but you can add optional paprika or crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. This flexibility lets you tailor the spice level to your preference.

What’s the best way to shred cooked chicken?

Using two forks to pull apart shredded chicken is simple and effective, or you can place cooked chicken in a stand mixer with a paddle attachment and pulse on low for a few seconds.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Keto Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe has quickly become one of my all-time favorites for a reason—it strikes the perfect balance between comforting and nutritious, with minimal fuss. I truly encourage you to try it out and savor how wonderfully creamy, cheesy, and satisfying a keto meal can be. Once you do, I guarantee it’ll become a regular fixture in your recipe collection.

Print