If you’re searching for a comforting, flavorful dish that fits perfectly into your low-carb lifestyle, you’ve just found it. This Keto Chicken Broccoli Casserole Recipe is a creamy, cheesy dream packed with tender chicken and vibrant broccoli, all brought together with garlic-infused cream and rich cheeses. It’s a satisfying meal that feels indulgent without any of the carb guilt, making it a favorite for busy weeknights or cozy weekends alike. You’ll love how effortlessly the ingredients come together to create something truly special that your whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Keto Chicken Broccoli Casserole Recipe is so simple because it relies on a handful of straightforward ingredients. Each one plays a key role: from the buttery sautéed broccoli adding bright color and texture, to the creamy sauce and cheese layers delivering that irresistible richness.
- Butter (2 tbsp, divided): Adds a silky richness and helps sauté the broccoli and garlic for deep flavor.
- Broccoli (16 ounces, coarsely chopped): Provides vibrant greenery and a tender crunch that balances the creamy elements.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth that makes every bite comforting.
- Heavy whipping cream (3/4 cup): Creates the silky base for our sauce, perfectly thickened and luscious.
- Shredded mozzarella (1 1/3 cups, divided): Melts beautifully to blanket the casserole in gooey, golden cheese.
- Grated parmesan cheese (1/3 cup): Adds a sharp, savory edge that brightens the creamy sauce.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out the full flavors of each ingredient.
- Cooked, chopped chicken (1 1/2 lb, about 4 cups): The hearty protein star of the dish that makes it filling and satisfying.
How to Make Keto Chicken Broccoli Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Broccoli
Start by heating a tablespoon of butter in a 10-inch ovenproof skillet over medium heat. Toss in the broccoli and cook it until it’s a bright, inviting green and just tender—this usually takes around 4 minutes. This quick sauté keeps the broccoli crisp-tender and full of flavor. Then, transfer the broccoli to a bowl and set it aside, giving the skillet a quick wipe if needed.
Step 2: Cook the Garlic and Cream
Next, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter in the same skillet. Add the minced garlic and cook it for about 1 minute until you can smell its irresistible aroma filling the kitchen. Pour in the heavy whipping cream and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes until the cream reduces and thickens slightly, creating the luscious base sauce that will carry all the flavors.
Step 3: Add the Cheeses
Stir in one-third cup of mozzarella and all of the grated parmesan into the cream sauce. Keep stirring until the cheeses melt completely and the sauce becomes silky and smooth. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper here—taste and adjust as you go to make sure the flavors are balanced and bright.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Broccoli
Return the sautéed broccoli to the skillet and add the chopped chicken. Gently fold everything together, making sure the chicken and broccoli are well coated in that cheesy, creamy sauce. This mixture should look rich and inviting as it combines savory protein and tender vegetables.
Step 5: Top with Mozzarella and Broil
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Preheat your broiler and place the skillet about 6 inches from the heat source. Broil for 2 to 5 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and just beginning to brown. Keep a close eye to prevent burning, as every broiler heats differently. Once golden and irresistible, your casserole is ready to serve.
How to Serve Keto Chicken Broccoli Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can add a bright note and an extra layer of texture. Try sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or chives over the top after broiling to bring a pop of color and subtle herbaceousness. A light dusting of crushed red pepper flakes also works if you love a hint of heat with your creamy casserole.
Side Dishes
Although this casserole shines on its own, pairing it with a crisp green salad or a simple cauliflower rice pilaf makes for a satisfying and complete meal. These low-carb sides bring freshness and contrast, balancing the richness of the casserole without overwhelming its flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the casserole in individual ovenproof ramekins for a personal touch. You can also scoop portions onto lettuce leaves to turn it into a handheld low-carb wrap, perfect for casual lunches or picnics. Either way, it’s guaranteed to impress!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover Keto Chicken Broccoli Casserole into an airtight container and keep it refrigerated. It stays fresh for up to 4 days, making it a fantastic option for quick lunches or reheated dinners during the week.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers or wrap it tightly in foil. It can be kept frozen for up to 3 months without losing its rich flavor or creamy texture, so feel free to make it ahead of busy days or extra portions.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) until heated through and bubbly, usually about 15-20 minutes. Adding a sprinkle of fresh cheese on top before warming up can refresh the melty texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this casserole?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw and drain the broccoli well to avoid extra moisture that could make the casserole watery. Frozen broccoli works great when pressed and patted dry before sautéing.
What can I substitute for mozzarella cheese?
If you’re out of mozzarella, cheddar or Monterey Jack are wonderful alternatives that melt nicely and add their own unique flavor twists to the casserole.
Is this casserole suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This Keto Chicken Broccoli Casserole Recipe is ideal for meal prepping because it stores well and tastes just as delicious when reheated, saving you time during busy weeks.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Low-carb veggies like cauliflower, zucchini, or mushrooms can be included to add variety. Just be mindful of cooking times to ensure all vegetables are tender and not soggy.
How do I make this casserole spicier?
Add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper in step 2 with the garlic, or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes on top before broiling for a spicy kick that complements the creamy base perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This Keto Chicken Broccoli Casserole Recipe is a delicious, comforting classic reinvented for your low-carb lifestyle. It comes together quickly, uses simple, wholesome ingredients, and always satisfies cravings for a creamy, cheesy home-cooked meal. I hope you give this one a try and enjoy every bite as much as I do — it’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
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Keto Chicken Broccoli Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 21 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
This Keto Chicken Broccoli Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting low-carb meal featuring tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich garlic-infused cream sauce topped with melted mozzarella. Perfectly broiled to a golden finish, it’s an easy skillet dish ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or satisfying meal prep.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp butter, divided
- 16 ounces broccoli, coarsely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 1/3 cups shredded mozzarella, divided
- 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 1/2 lb cooked, chopped chicken (about 4 cups)
Instructions
- Sauté Broccoli: Set a 10-inch ovenproof skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of the butter. Once melted, add the coarsely chopped broccoli and sauté until bright green and just tender, approximately 4 minutes. Remove the broccoli from the skillet and place it in a bowl.
- Cook Garlic and Cream Sauce: Melt the remaining tablespoon of butter in the same pan, then add the minced garlic. Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy whipping cream, bring it to a simmer, and cook until the cream has reduced and thickened, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Add Cheeses and Season: Stir in 1/3 cup of the shredded mozzarella and all of the grated parmesan cheese until melted and combined. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir the sautéed broccoli and chopped cooked chicken into the cheese sauce in the skillet. Evenly top the mixture with the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Broil to Finish: Preheat your oven’s broiler. Position the skillet about 6 inches from the broiler element and broil for 2 to 5 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbling and beginning to brown. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Notes
- Make sure to use an ovenproof skillet to go directly from stovetop to broiler safely.
- For a variation, you can substitute mozzarella with cheddar or a mix of your favorite cheeses.
- This dish is great for meal prep and can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- Leftovers can be reheated in the oven or microwave, but broiling fresh provides the best cheesy crust.
- If you prefer, steamed broccoli can be used instead of sautéed for a softer texture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 16 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
