Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Difficulty Level: Easy
Servings: 6 servings
Cooking Intensity
- Prep Intensity: Easy
- Cooking Intensity: Moderate
- Skill Level: Beginner-Friendly
Ingredients
For the Casserole
- 4 cups broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 large cooked chicken breasts, shredded or diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Creamy Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Topping
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium saucepan
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or non-stick cooking spray.
Step 2: Cook the Broccoli
Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch them for 2 to 3 minutes. Drain immediately and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
This step helps maintain the broccoli’s vibrant green color and prevents it from becoming overly soft during baking.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
Place the cooked chicken in a large mixing bowl. Add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated with the seasonings.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Heat a medium saucepan over medium heat.
Add the heavy cream and cream cheese. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts completely and the mixture becomes smooth.
Add the minced garlic, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper.
Continue whisking until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes thick, creamy, and silky.
Cooking Intensity: Medium Heat
Time Required: 5–7 minutes
Avoid high heat, as it may cause the cheese to separate.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Add the broccoli and seasoned chicken to the prepared baking dish.
Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the top and gently stir until everything is evenly coated.
Spread the mixture into an even layer.
Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese over the top.
Step 6: Bake
Place the casserole in the preheated oven.
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling around the edges.
Cooking Intensity: Medium Oven Heat (375°F/190°C)
Step 7: Broil for a Golden Finish
For an extra golden and crispy cheese topping, switch the oven to broil for 2 to 3 minutes.
Watch carefully to prevent burning.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
This helps the sauce thicken slightly and makes serving easier.
Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.
Expert Tips
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation.
- Fresh broccoli provides the best texture, but frozen broccoli can also be used. Be sure to drain excess moisture.
- Add cooked bacon for extra flavor and healthy fats.
- For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer
Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes or microwave until heated through.
Variations
Bacon Keto Casserole
Add 6 slices of cooked and crumbled bacon before baking.
Extra Cheesy Version
Increase cheddar cheese to 1½ cups and mozzarella to 1 cup.
Spinach Addition
Mix in 1 cup of chopped spinach for extra nutrients.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs wonderfully with:
- Keto garlic bread
- Cauliflower rice
- Mixed green salad
- Roasted zucchini
- Avocado slices
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Bake when ready to serve.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Absolutely. The ingredients are low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats, making it suitable for a ketogenic diet.
Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully and provide even more flavor.
Nutrition Information
Per Serving (Based on 6 Servings)
- Calories: 465
- Protein: 34g
- Fat: 33g
- Total Carbohydrates: 8g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Net Carbs: 6g
- Sugar: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
- Sodium: 620mg
- Potassium: 540mg