Keto Broccoli Cheese Chicken Casserole Recipe

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Cozy Keto Broccoli Cheese Chicken Casserole Recipe, Made Simple

There’s something so comforting about a casserole bubbling away in the oven—its toasty aroma filling the kitchen, promising warm, cheesy bites ahead. I love how this Keto Broccoli Cheese Chicken Casserole Recipe wraps up simple ingredients into a creamy, satisfying dish that’s big on flavor without any guilt. Whether you’re winding down a busy week or craving a cozy weekend meal, this recipe delivers that perfect balance of rich, buttery cheese melting into tender chicken and crisp-tender broccoli. You’ll find it’s surprisingly easy to pull together, making it a true weekday hero for anyone following keto or just looking for wholesome comfort food. Join me as we dive into the heart of this dish, unpacking practical tips and tweaks so your Keto Broccoli Cheese Chicken Casserole Recipe turns out golden, bubbly, and utterly crave-worthy every time.

Ingredient Lowdown

• Cooked chicken (2 cups): Roasted, grilled, or even leftover chicken works beautifully. I like shredding it for even flavor distribution.
• Broccoli florets (2 cups): Steamed just until tender but still with a crisp bite—overcooked broccoli can turn mushy.
• Heavy cream (1 cup): Adds luscious creaminess that binds everything together.
• Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Sharp cheddar provides vibrant flavor and meltiness; you can mix in mozzarella for extra stretch.
• Cream cheese (1/2 cup): Helps create that silky texture and deep richness.
• Garlic powder (1 tsp): A subtle kick of warmth without overpowering.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for balancing flavors—don’t skimp here!
• Paprika (1/2 tsp, optional): Adds a gentle smoky note and a warm color boost.

Set Up for Success

Getting a smooth start is the key to a perfect Keto Broccoli Cheese Chicken Casserole Recipe. Preheat your oven to a steady 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready to go when your casserole hits the pan. Meanwhile, steam your broccoli just until it’s bright green and tender-crisp—that texture really shines through in the finished dish. I always like to grease my baking dish generously with butter or a keto-friendly oil. It keeps the edges lovely and prevents any sticking mishaps while adding a subtle, toasty note to the crusty parts of the casserole. Having all ingredients prepped and within arm’s reach makes baking feel effortless.

Step-by-Step: Keto Broccoli Cheese Chicken Casserole Recipe

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This medium heat temp ensures the casserole cooks evenly, allowing the cheese to melt into a bubbly golden crust without drying out.
2. Mix the creamy sauce by combining heavy cream, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and paprika in a large bowl. Whisk or stir until the mixture is silky smooth and well blended—this is the foundation of that luscious texture you’ll love.
3. Fold in the chicken and broccoli, gently stirring until everything is evenly coated with the creamy sauce. You’ll notice the broccoli’s flash of green and the tender chicken bits nestling in their cheesy blanket.
4. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly so it cooks uniformly.
5. Generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. This layer will bake into a bubbling, toasty crown of flavor and texture.
6. Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, until the cheese topping is melted, bubbly, and just beginning to turn golden brown around the edges. The kitchen will fill with a fragrant mix of garlic, cream, and smoky cheddar—as inviting as any comforting hug.
7. Cool slightly before serving. This brief resting time lets the casserole set, so your slices hold their shape beautifully without losing that creamy pull.

Flavor Twists for Keto Broccoli Cheese Chicken Casserole Recipe

• Swap broccoli with cauliflower for a milder, nuttier base that still keeps it keto-friendly.
• Add crispy cooked bacon pieces for an extra smoky crunch layered beneath the cheese.
• Stir in chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant twist.
• Mix in sautéed mushrooms for earthiness and a little extra bulk.
• Use a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses for a creamier, meltier top layer.
• For a little heat, sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days—reheat gently to keep the sauce creamy.
• This casserole freezes well—portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze up to 2 months.
• Thaw frozen casserole overnight in the fridge, then bake at 350°F until warmed through and bubbly again.
• You can prep the sauce and veggies ahead; just combine everything and bake when ready to serve.
• For perfect reheating, cover loosely with foil to prevent the cheese topping from burning.

Keto Broccoli Cheese Chicken Casserole Recipe FAQs

• Can I use raw chicken? It’s best to use cooked chicken here since this recipe’s bake time is mainly for melting and blending flavors, not cooking raw meat through.
• What if I don’t have cream cheese? You can substitute with extra heavy cream or mascarpone, although cream cheese adds a nice tang and body.
• Is this recipe dairy-free? No, it relies heavily on cheese and cream. For dairy-free, you’d need alternative cheeses and creams, which might change the texture significantly.
• How can I make it spicier? Add chili powder, diced jalapeños, or cayenne pepper into the sauce to your preferred heat level.
• What side dishes go well with this casserole? A fresh green salad or roasted keto-friendly veggies like asparagus or zucchini noodles complement the rich casserole nicely.

Print