Keto Broccoli Chicken Cheese Casserole
Creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender chicken and nutritious broccoli, this Keto Broccoli Chicken Cheese Casserole is the ultimate comfort food without the extra carbs. It’s an easy one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or feeding the whole family. Every bite is loaded with melted cheese, savory chicken, and a rich, flavorful cream sauce.
Ready in under an hour, this satisfying casserole is sure to become a staple in your keto recipe collection.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Keto and low-carb
High in protein
Rich, creamy, and cheesy
Easy one-dish meal
Great for meal prep
Family-friendly
Naturally gluten-free
Ingredients
For the Casserole
3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
4 cups broccoli florets, lightly steamed
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
½ cup heavy cream
½ cup sour cream
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Optional Topping
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon melted butter
Kitchen Equipment
9×13-inch baking dish
Large mixing bowl
Medium saucepan or microwave-safe bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine:
Cream cheese
Heavy cream
Sour cream
Garlic
Onion powder
Paprika
Italian seasoning
Salt
Black pepper
Mix until smooth.
Stir in 1½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
Cooked chicken
Steamed broccoli
Cheese sauce
Mix until everything is evenly coated.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
Step 4: Add the Topping
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole.
If using, add the mozzarella, Parmesan, and drizzle with melted butter for an extra golden, bubbly topping.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbling and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
For a crispier top, broil for 2–3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Step 6: Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Expert Tips
Use Rotisserie Chicken
Rotisserie chicken is a convenient shortcut that adds extra flavor.
Don’t Overcook the Broccoli
Steam the broccoli just until tender-crisp so it doesn’t become mushy during baking.
Soften the Cream Cheese
Room-temperature cream cheese blends more easily into a smooth sauce.
Let It Rest
Allowing the casserole to sit briefly after baking helps it set and makes serving easier.
Delicious Variations
Bacon Broccoli Chicken Casserole
Add 6 slices of cooked, crumbled bacon to the mixture for extra smoky flavor.
Spicy Version
Mix in diced jalapeños or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
Mushroom Chicken Casserole
Add sautéed mushrooms for extra texture and earthy flavor.
Extra Cheesy
Use a blend of cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan for an ultra-cheesy casserole.
What to Serve with Keto Chicken Casserole
This casserole pairs well with:
Cauliflower mash
Garlic butter green beans
Roasted asparagus
Zucchini noodles
Mixed green salad with olive oil dressing
Sautéed spinach
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer
Freeze the baked casserole for up to 2 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes.
Microwave: Heat individual portions for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through if needed.
Nutritional Benefits
Each serving provides:
High-quality protein from chicken
Healthy fats from cheese and cream
Fiber from broccoli
Calcium from dairy
Low net carbohydrates, making it suitable for a ketogenic lifestyle
Nutritional values will vary based on the ingredients and portion sizes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes. Thaw and drain it well before adding it to the casserole to prevent excess moisture.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I substitute the chicken?
Yes. Cooked turkey works well, or you can use shredded pork for a different flavor.
How do I make it even creamier?
Add an extra ¼ cup of heavy cream or stir in a little more cream cheese before baking.
Is this casserole meal-prep friendly?
Yes. It reheats beautifully and makes an excellent make-ahead lunch or dinner.
Final Thoughts
This Keto Broccoli Chicken Cheese Casserole is everything you want in a comforting low-carb meal—creamy, cheesy, hearty, and incredibly easy to make. With tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a rich cheese sauce, it’s a satisfying dish that fits perfectly into a keto lifestyle.
Serve it fresh from the oven with a simple side salad or your favorite low-carb vegetables for a complete meal that’s both nourishing and delicious. 🥦🧀🍗
