Looking for a quick, satisfying, and low-carb meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy keto dinner?
This Keto Chicken Broccoli Casserole is here to save the day! Packed with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, this dish is a delicious way to stay on track with your keto lifestyle. With less than 5g net carbs per serving, it’s a guilt-free comfort food that’s ready in just 25 minutes.
As the colder months roll in, hearty casseroles like this one become a staple in my kitchen. Whether it’s a smoked sausage casserole, a ham and cauliflower bake, or a keto zucchini lasagna, there’s something so comforting about a warm, cheesy dish straight from the oven.
But this Keto Chicken Broccoli Casserole has quickly become my go-to favorite. It’s rich, flavorful, and loaded with healthy fats and protein, making it the ultimate keto-friendly comfort food.
Plus, who doesn’t love a one-pan wonder? This recipe is as easy on the cook as it is on the taste buds—minimal prep, fewer dishes, and maximum flavor.
Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or need a quick keto dinner idea, this casserole is a winner. Dive into this creamy, cheesy, low-carb delight and discover why it’s a must-have in your keto recipe rotation!
Ingredients
This simple yet flavorful keto casserole uses everyday ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Shredded or diced cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works great for a time-saving option!)
- Fresh broccoli florets (or frozen broccoli for convenience)
- Unsalted butter (for a rich, creamy base)
- Heavy cream (to create that luscious, velvety sauce)
- Shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (or a mix of both for extra cheesiness)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for a nutty, savory kick)
- Minced garlic (fresh or jarred, for a burst of flavor)
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper (to season perfectly)
How to Make Keto Chicken Broccoli Casserole
Choose an Ovenproof Skillet
Start by using a large ovenproof skillet to make this recipe seamless. Since the dish transitions from stovetop to oven, you won’t need to transfer the mixture to a separate baking dish. A cast-iron skillet works wonderfully, but any oven-safe skillet will do.
Prep the Broccoli
Chop fresh broccoli florets into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. You’ll need about 12 ounces (roughly 3 cups) to pack the casserole with veggies. Sauté the broccoli in the skillet until it turns bright green and is just tender—it will finish cooking in the oven. Avoid using frozen broccoli, as it can become too soft and lose its texture.
Create the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic for a flavorful base. Pour in heavy whipping cream and let it simmer gently. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens slightly. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-thickening—this rich, keto-friendly sauce doesn’t need flour or cream cheese to achieve the perfect consistency.
Combine Chicken and Broccoli
Add your pre-cooked chicken to the skillet. Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver, or you can quickly cook chicken thighs by simmering them in broth for about 15 minutes. Toss the chicken and broccoli in the creamy sauce until everything is well-coated.
Top with Cheese
Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded mozzarella (or cheddar, if preferred) over the mixture. For an extra flavor boost, you can also add a sprinkle of Parmesan or experiment with cheeses like Gruyere.
Broil to Perfection
Transfer the skillet to the oven and broil for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Serve and Enjoy
Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. This hearty, cheesy dish is a complete keto meal on its own, perfect for a quick dinner or a satisfying keto lunch.
Storage Instructions
To store your Keto Chicken Broccoli Casserole, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To reheat, put a portion in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until it is warm. You can also use the microwave for a faster option. For best results, cover the dish with foil or a microwave-safe lid to retain moisture and prevent the cheese from drying out. This casserole is perfect for meal prep, making it an easy grab-and-go option for busy days!
Tips for Achieving Maximum Flavor
To elevate your Keto Chicken Broccoli Casserole, start by seasoning every layer—season the chicken while cooking, the broccoli while sautéing, and the sauce as it simmers. Use fresh garlic instead of powdered for a more vibrant, aromatic flavor.
For a richer sauce, opt for high-quality Parmesan cheese and let the cream mixture simmer gently to deepen its taste. Don’t shy away from adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika for a subtle kick.
Finally, broil the casserole until the cheese is golden and bubbly, creating a deliciously crispy top layer that adds both texture and flavor. These small tweaks will make your dish unforgettable!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of cheese in this casserole?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and Parmesan are recommended for their reliability and flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like sharp cheddar, Gruyere, or even a blend of your favorites. Just keep in mind that stronger cheeses may alter the overall taste slightly.
2. Is it necessary to use fresh broccoli, or can I substitute it?
Fresh broccoli is ideal for this recipe as it holds its texture better during cooking. While frozen broccoli can be used in a pinch, it tends to release more moisture and may become softer, affecting the casserole’s consistency.
3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, this casserole is great for meal prep! Assemble it completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.
4. How can I make this dish dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, substitute butter with coconut oil or olive oil, heavy cream with coconut cream, and use dairy-free cheese alternatives. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
5. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
For the best results, reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This helps maintain the casserole’s creamy texture and prevents the cheese from becoming rubbery. Alternatively, use the microwave for a quicker option, covering the dish to retain moisture.
6. Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?
Definitely! This recipe is versatile, so feel free to add low-carb veggies like cauliflower, zucchini, or spinach. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as needed to ensure everything is tender but not overcooked.
7. How do I know when the casserole is baking?
The casserole is ready when the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top. The sauce should be thickened, and the broccoli should be tender but still have a slight bite.
Keto Chicken Broccoli Casserole
Ingredients
- ¼ cup 56.75 g butter, divided
- 12 ounces 340.2 g broccoli , coarsely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup 238 g heavy whipping cream
- 1 ½ cups 168 g shredded mozzarella, divided
- ½ cup 50 g grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper
- 3 cups 567 g cooked chopped chicken (about 1 1/4 lbs)
Instructions
Choose an Ovenproof Skillet
- Start by using a large ovenproof skillet to make this recipe seamless. Since the dish transitions from stovetop to oven, you won’t need to transfer the mixture to a separate baking dish. A cast-iron skillet works wonderfully, but any oven-safe skillet will do.
Prep the Broccoli
- Chop fresh broccoli florets into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. You’ll need about 12 ounces (roughly 3 cups) to pack the casserole with veggies. Sauté the broccoli in the skillet until it turns bright green and is just tender—it will finish cooking in the oven. Avoid using frozen broccoli, as it can become too soft and lose its texture.
Create the Creamy Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic for a flavorful base. Pour in heavy whipping cream and let it simmer gently. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens slightly. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-thickening—this rich, keto-friendly sauce doesn’t need flour or cream cheese to achieve the perfect consistency.
Combine Chicken and Broccoli
- Add your pre-cooked chicken to the skillet. Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver, or you can quickly cook chicken thighs by simmering them in broth for about 15 minutes. Toss the chicken and broccoli in the creamy sauce until everything is well-coated.
Top with Cheese
- Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded mozzarella (or cheddar, if preferred) over the mixture. For an extra flavor boost, you can also add a sprinkle of Parmesan or experiment with cheeses like Gruyere.
Broil to Perfection
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and broil for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Serve and Enjoy
- Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. This hearty, cheesy dish is a complete keto meal on its own, perfect for a quick dinner or a satisfying keto lunch.