Keto Broccoli Chicken Casserole

Have you ever stared at a plain chicken breast and wondered how on earth to make it exciting for dinner? Well, that’s where this keto broccoli chicken casserole comes in. Imagine tender chicken mingling with crisp, bright broccoli and smothered in gooey, melted cheese—it’s comfort food that doesn’t make you feel guilty. I’ve tried my fair share of low carb chicken broccoli casserole, and honestly, this one has earned a permanent spot on our weekly menu. The best part? You can get it from prep to table in just about half an hour, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights when you still want something satisfying and wholesome.

Creamy Keto Broccoli Chicken Casserole: A 30-Minute Family Favorite

Ingredients

• 2 pounds of chicken breasts, skin removed and bones out, chopped into bite-sized chunks about an inch each
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (frozen works too, just thaw first)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese for topping

Substitution tip: For a lighter version, swap half the cream cheese with Greek yogurt. Need it dairy-free? Try coconut cream instead of heavy cream and your favorite dairy-free cheese alternative.

Timing

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

This keto chicken casserole saves about 20 minutes compared to traditional casseroles that require pre-cooking the chicken separately. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something substantial but quick!

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming up, get your prep done: cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, chop the broccoli into small, easy-to-eat florets, and mince the garlic so it’s ready to release all that flavor. Trust me, having everything lined up before you start cooking makes the whole process so much smoother—no scrambling around last minute.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken Base

Pour some olive oil into a large, oven-safe skillet and set it over medium heat. Toss in the onions and let them cook until they turn soft and translucent—usually around three minutes. Then add the garlic, giving it just enough time, about 30 seconds, to release that amazing aroma that makes the whole kitchen smell irresistible. Next, add the chicken pieces and cook them until they’re nearly done, about five to seven minutes. Don’t forget to season with a pinch of salt, some freshly cracked black pepper, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning—these little touches really bring all the flavors together.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce

Turn the heat down to medium-low and toss the cream cheese into the skillet. Stir it around until it melts into a silky base. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while keeping everything moving so it blends nicely. Then sprinkle in a cup of shredded cheddar and stir until the sauce is luxuriously smooth. You want it thick enough to coat the back of a spoon, but if it feels a bit too dense, a small splash of chicken broth will loosen it up perfectly. Honestly, this is the kind of sauce that makes you want to lick the spoon!

Step 4: Add Broccoli and Bake

Gently fold the broccoli florets into the creamy sauce, making sure each piece gets nicely coated. Then sprinkle the rest of your cheddar and a little parmesan over the top—don’t be shy, the more cheese, the better! Slide the skillet into the oven and bake for about 15 minutes until the sauce is bubbly and inviting. For that extra wow factor, pop it under the broiler for 2–3 minutes so the cheese turns golden and slightly crispy. Honestly, that little golden crust is what makes this casserole irresistible.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (serves 6):

• Calories: 485
• Protein: 38g
• Fat: 35g
• Net Carbs: 5g
• Fiber: 2g
• Vitamin C: 80% of daily value
• Calcium: 25% of daily value

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

For a lower-calorie keto chicken broccoli casserole, try using chicken thighs instead of breasts for more fat and flavor while using less cheese. Vegetarian? Substitute chicken with extra-firm tofu or tempeh. For dairy sensitivities, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

Serving Suggestions

This low carb chicken broccoli casserole shines when served with a simple side salad dressed with olive oil and lemon juice. For non-keto family members, offer a side of garlic bread or roasted sweet potatoes. A glass of dry white wine or sparkling water with lemon complements the creamy texture perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the broccoli: Add it raw to the casserole – it’ll cook perfectly in the oven
• Using cold cream cheese: Always use softened cream cheese to avoid lumps in your sauce
• Under-seasoning: Keto dishes need proper seasoning – taste before baking
• Rushing the cheese melt: Lower heat ensures a smooth sauce without separation

Storing Tips for the Recipe

This keto chicken casserole keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. For freezer storage, portion into individual servings and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or in a 350°F oven until heated through (about 15 minutes).

Conclusion

This keto broccoli chicken casserole brings together simplicity and flavor in a way that satisfies both health-conscious eaters and comfort food lovers. The combination of tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and decadent cheese sauce creates an irresistible meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Give it a try tonight and see why it’s become a reader favorite!

FAQs

Is it possible to prepare this keto chicken casserole in advance?
Definitely! You can get everything ready up to the point where it goes in the oven, then pop it in the fridge for up to a day. When it’s time to bake, just slide it straight into the oven—though if it’s coming from cold, plan on adding an extra 5 to 10 minutes so it cooks through perfectly. It’s such a lifesaver for busy nights when you want a hot, comforting meal without all the last-minute fuss.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This casserole is perfect for meal prep. It warms up wonderfully, and honestly, sometimes it tastes even better the next day—letting all those flavors mingle really takes it to the next level. I often make a big batch knowing I’ll have a ready-to-go, satisfying keto dinner for a couple of days.

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?
Definitely! Use about 3 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken and skip the chicken cooking step. Add it directly when making the sauce.

How can I make this casserole more kid-friendly?
Try cutting the broccoli into very small pieces or even pulsing it in a food processor. You can also try using milder cheese like Monterey Jack instead of sharp cheddar.

What’s the best cheese to use for this casserole?
Sharp cheddar provides the best flavor, but you can experiment with cheese blends. A mixture of cheddar, mozzarella, and Gruyère creates an incredible depth of flavor!