A rich, cheesy, low-carb casserole packed with tender chicken, broccoli, and a creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce. This is an ideal keto comfort food that’s easy enough for weeknights and great for meal prep.
Yield
- 6 servings
Prep Time
- 15 minutes
Cook Time
- 30–35 minutes
Total Time
- About 50 minutes
Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 450–550
- Protein: 35–40 g
- Net Carbs: 5–7 g
- Fat: 30–38 g
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups (about 600 g) cooked chicken breast or thigh, diced or shredded
- 5 cups (about 450 g) broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Creamy Sauce
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Topping
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional:
- 2 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley
Equipment
- 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) casserole dish
- Large skillet or saucepan
- Mixing spoon
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease the casserole dish with butter or cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
Add broccoli florets and cook for 2–3 minutes.
Drain immediately and rinse with cold water to stop cooking.
Alternatively, steam for 3–4 minutes.
The broccoli should remain slightly crisp.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat:
- Melt butter.
- Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add:
- Heavy cream
- Cream cheese
Whisk until smooth.
Then stir in:
- Mozzarella
- Parmesan
- Onion powder
- Italian seasoning
- Salt
- Pepper
Cook until the cheeses melt and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine the Filling
In a large bowl combine:
- Chicken
- Broccoli
- Cream sauce
Mix until everything is evenly coated.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish.
Spread evenly.
Top with:
- Cheddar cheese
- Parmesan cheese
Add bacon crumbles if using.
Step 6: Bake
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes.
The casserole is ready when:
- Cheese is melted
- Top is golden brown
- Edges are bubbling
For extra browning, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.
Step 7: Rest
Allow the casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
This helps the sauce thicken slightly.
Variations
Buffalo Chicken Version
Add:
- ¼ cup hot sauce
to the cream sauce and top with blue cheese crumbles.
Ranch Version
Add:
- 1 tbsp ranch seasoning
to the sauce for a ranch-style casserole.
Extra Veggies
Add:
- Cauliflower florets
- Spinach
- Mushrooms
while keeping carbs relatively low.
Meal Prep & Storage
Refrigerator
- Store covered for up to 4 days.
Freezer
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Oven
- 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes.
Microwave
- 1–2 minutes per serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
- A simple green salad
- Roasted asparagus
- Sautéed zucchini
- Cauliflower rice
