Name: Easy Creamy Keto Broccoli Chicken Casserole Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (use leftover or rotisserie chicken); 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen); 4 ounces cream cheese (for creamy texture); 1 cup heavy cream (enriches sauce); 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese (for topping); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 0.25 teaspoon black pepper; 0.25 teaspoon paprika or crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

As I stirred the bubbling cheese sauce, the aroma enveloped my kitchen like a warm hug. Today, I'm thrilled to share my Creamy Keto Broccoli Chicken Casserole—a dish that not only caters to your low-carb cravings but also transforms leftover chicken into a soul-satisfying meal. This recipe is a dream for busy home chefs—quick to prepare and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that even the kids will devour. With tender broccoli mingling with creamy goodness and a cheesy finish, this casserole is pure comfort in every bite. Plus, it’s great for meal prep or freezing, making it a smart choice for any weeknight dinner. Are you ready to indulge in a hearty yet healthy dish that will make your taste buds sing?

Why is this casserole a must-try?

Quick preparation: You can whip up this dish in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Flavor explosion: The blend of cream cheese, heavy cream, and cheddar cheese creates a luscious sauce that coats tender chicken and broccoli perfectly.

Low-carb goodness: Stay on track with your keto goals while savoring every delicious bite.

Versatile meal: Whether it’s lunch, dinner, or meal prep, this casserole fits any occasion!

Family favorite: Even the kids will love the creamy, cheesy flavors, making it a great way to sneak in those veggies!

Creamy Keto Broccoli Chicken Casserole Ingredients

Discover the delightful components of this comforting dish!

For the Casserole
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken – perfect for using up leftover chicken or rotisserie for added flavor.
• 3 cups broccoli florets – fresh or frozen, this adds essential nutrients and color to your casserole.
• 4 ounces cream cheese – the secret to that creamy texture everyone will love!
• 1 cup heavy cream – enriches the sauce for a decadent, satisfying finish.
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese – the melty topping that makes this casserole irresistible.

Seasonings
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – infuses the dish with a warm, savory flavor.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – enhances the overall taste with a hint of sweetness.
• ½ teaspoon salt – balances flavors and elevates the dish.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper – adds a subtle kick to awaken your palate.
• Optional: ¼ teaspoon paprika or crushed red pepper flakes – for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their creamy keto broccoli chicken casserole!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Keto Broccoli Chicken Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats, grab a 9x13-inch casserole dish and generously grease it with cooking spray or butter. This will ensure your Creamy Keto Broccoli Chicken Casserole releases easily after baking, making cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli
If you're using frozen broccoli, allow it to thaw in a colander while you tackle the rest of the prep work. Once thawed, drain any excess water and chop any large florets into smaller, bite-sized pieces. Fresh broccoli can be used as well; just wash and cut it into similar sizes for even cooking.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the cream cheese and heavy cream. Stir continuously for about 5 minutes until the mixture is melded and smooth, creating a luscious sauce. Keep an eye on it to prevent any sticking, and once it’s a creamy consistency, remove it from the heat to add the seasonings.

Step 4: Season the Sauce
Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to your cheese sauce. Stir well to incorporate the spices fully, adjusting the seasoning to your taste. This flavorful sauce will elevate the Creamy Keto Broccoli Chicken Casserole, ensuring every bite is full of savory goodness.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken and the prepared broccoli florets. Pour the creamy cheese sauce over this mixture, using a spatula to fold everything together gently until all ingredients are evenly coated. The goal is to create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

Step 6: Transfer to Casserole Dish
Carefully transfer your chicken and broccoli mixture into the greased casserole dish. Spread it out evenly with your spatula, ensuring every corner is filled. This step is crucial for achieving even heating and a well-balanced final dish when baking your Creamy Keto Broccoli Chicken Casserole.

Step 7: Add the Cheddar Topping
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top of the casserole. Aim for an even layer so that it melts uniformly, creating that delightful gooey texture. This cheesy topping is what will make your casserole absolutely irresistible and visually appealing once baked.

Step 8: Bake the Casserole
Place your casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbly and has formed a lovely golden crust on top. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be an inviting signal that dinner time is almost here.

Step 9: Optional Broil for Extra Crisp
For an even more decadent topping, switch the oven to broil for an additional 2–3 minutes. Watch closely as the cheese turns bubbly and slightly crispy without burning. This step is optional but adds a delicious texture contrast to the Creamy Keto Broccoli Chicken Casserole.

Step 10: Let it Rest Before Serving
Once it’s out of the oven, let your casserole rest for about 5–10 minutes. This cooling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully while making it easier to serve. As you prepare to dish it out, take a moment to admire your cheesy and comforting creation!

Creamy Keto Broccoli Chicken Casserole Variations

Feel free to personalize your casserole experience and let your culinary creativity shine!

Dairy-Free: Swap cream cheese and heavy cream with coconut cream and dairy-free cream cheese for a luscious vegan option.
The richness of coconut gives a delightful twist without losing creaminess, making it an exciting alternative!
Spicy Kick: Add 1 tablespoon of sriracha or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce for a fiery flavor boost.
Don’t hold back if you love heat—this tiny addition transforms the dish into a spicy delight your taste buds won’t forget!
Vegetable Medley: Incorporate 1 cup diced bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and vibrant color.
This not only enhances the visual appeal but also increases your veggie intake in a fun and tasty way!
Creamy Mushroom Twist: Fold in 1 cup sautéed mushrooms for an earthy depth to your casserole.
Mushrooms enhance the umami flavor, creating a comforting dish that will have you craving every bite!
Cheese Variety: Experiment with a mix of cheeses like mozzarella or gruyere alongside your cheddar for a gourmet touch.
Different cheeses offer unique flavors and melting qualities—a perfect way to elevate your casserole game!
Cauliflower Rice: Replace broccoli with cauliflower rice for a different texture while keeping your low-carb goals intact.
The subtle flavor of cauliflower lets the creamy sauce shine while providing a cozy alternative to traditional broccoli!
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the cheese sauce to brighten the overall flavor profile.
A sprinkle of fresh herbs brings a garden-fresh aroma, making your next family gathering extra special!
Nutty Crunch: Top with toasted almonds or walnuts for an unexpected crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
This nutty addition not only enhances texture but also makes for a satisfying bite that will surprise and delight!

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Keto Broccoli Chicken Casseroles are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prepare the chicken and broccoli mixture and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen. To maintain quality, mix the cheese sauce separately, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge until you're ready to bake. When you want to serve, simply combine the prepped ingredients in the casserole dish, top with cheddar cheese, and bake as directed. This way, you'll enjoy delicious homemade comfort food with minimal effort after a busy day!

How to Store and Freeze Creamy Keto Broccoli Chicken Casserole

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Freezer: You can freeze the casserole before baking for up to 2 months. Cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Reheating: For best results, reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake the whole casserole at 350°F (175°C) until bubbly and heated through.

Wrap it well: To prevent freezer burn, wrap the casserole in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil before freezing.

What to Serve with Creamy Keto Broccoli Chicken Casserole

Transform your casserole into a delightful meal with these enticing side dishes that enhance every bite.

Crispy Side Salad: A fresh mix of greens with a zesty vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch to balance the creaminess of the casserole.
Garlic Butter Green Beans: Tender green beans sautéed in garlic butter deliver a savory echo of the dish's flavors, creating a harmonious pairing.
Zucchini Noodles: Light and versatile, these noodles offer a low-carb alternative that soaks up the casserole’s rich sauce, enhancing the meal.
Roasted Cauliflower: Crispy roasted cauliflower florets provide a satisfying texture and a nutty flavor that complements the creamy chicken wonderfully.
Cheesy Cauliflower Mash: Smooth and cheesy, this mash mimics traditional mashed potatoes, making it a perfect comforting side without the carbs.
Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing and slightly tart beverage that cleanses the palate and adds a fun twist to your hearty meal experience.
Almond Flour Biscuits: These soft, buttery biscuits are perfect for sopping up the creamy sauce, adding an extra layer of satisfaction to your dinner.
Chocolate Avocado Mousse: For dessert, indulge in this rich, healthy treat to satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping up with your keto goals.

Expert Tips for Creamy Keto Broccoli Chicken Casserole

Shredded Chicken Options: Use leftover rotisserie chicken for an easy flavor boost, but ensure it’s fully cooked for the best results.
Broccoli Prep: If using fresh broccoli, blanch it for a couple of minutes before adding it to the casserole. This will ensure it’s tender and vibrant in your creamy keto broccoli chicken casserole.
Sauce Consistency: Stir the cheese sauce continuously over medium heat to prevent it from sticking or burning. A smooth sauce is key for an even coating!
Cheese Choices: For a twist, use a blend of cheeses or incorporate pepper jack for a spicy kick. Ensure to shred cheese fresh for the best melt!
Cool Before Serving: Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes after baking. This helps the flavors to meld and makes serving easier, so you can enjoy every cheesy bite.

Creamy Keto Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe FAQs

What kind of broccoli should I use?
Opt for fresh broccoli florets if you want vibrant color and texture. If using frozen, ensure they're fully thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture in your casserole. Regardless of your choice, smaller, bite-sized pieces work best for even cooking!

How should I store leftovers?
Absolutely! Store any leftover Creamy Keto Broccoli Chicken Casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through, ensuring it retains its delicious creamy texture.

Can I freeze this casserole?
Very much so! You can freeze the casserole before baking it for up to 2 months. To do so, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to bake it, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then cook as directed in the recipe.

What if my sauce ends up too thick?
If your cheese sauce is too thick, don’t worry! Add a splash of heavy cream or milk and gently heat it over low until you achieve your desired consistency. Stir constantly to incorporate the liquid smoothly, ensuring every bite remains creamy and delightful.

Is there a dairy-free option for this casserole?
Of course! For a dairy-free version, try using dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream or a suitable nut milk in place of heavy cream. This will help maintain the creamy texture while making it friendlier for those with dairy sensitivities.

Can my pet have this casserole?
It’s best to keep this casserole away from pets. Ingredients like garlic and onion can be harmful to dogs and cats in larger amounts. Always consult your veterinarian regarding safe food options for your furry friends!