Description
This creamy keto broccoli chicken casserole is a comforting low-carb dish perfect for a satisfying dinner. Made with tender shredded chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich cream cheese and cheddar sauce, it’s baked to golden perfection with a bubbly, cheesy top. Ideal for those following a keto diet, this casserole combines simple ingredients into a flavorful, creamy meal that’s easy to prepare and gluten-free.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or thawed if frozen)
Cheese Sauce
- 4 ounces cream cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Topping
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon paprika or crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking and set aside.
- Prepare the broccoli: If using frozen broccoli florets, thaw them completely and drain well to remove excess moisture. Chop any large florets into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Make the cheese sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the cream cheese along with the heavy cream. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Season the sauce: Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to the sauce, stirring well. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired to ensure flavorful sauce.
- Combine chicken and broccoli: In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded cooked chicken and prepared broccoli florets evenly.
- Mix with cheese sauce: Pour the warm cheese sauce over the chicken and broccoli mixture. Stir thoroughly until all pieces are evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Transfer to casserole dish: Spoon the coated mixture into the greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly for uniform baking.
- Add cheddar cheese topping: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Optionally, you can add paprika or crushed red pepper flakes for added flavor and color.
- Bake the casserole: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden.
- Optional broil for crispiness: For a crispy cheese topping, broil the casserole for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Rest before serving: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This helps the dish to set and makes it easier to serve.
Notes
- For best results, use freshly shredded chicken from roasted or poached chicken breasts.
- You can substitute broccoli with cauliflower florets for a different twist or to adjust macros.
- Make sure to drain thawed broccoli thoroughly to avoid a watery casserole.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking; just increase baking time slightly when baking cold.
- Use full-fat cream cheese and heavy cream for rich keto-friendly macros.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
