This Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe is perfect for a quick and tasty weeknight meal. It combines chicken with rich flavors of cream cheese, marinara, and mozzarella to create a dish that is not only low carb but also gluten-free. This casserole is ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or any occasion where you need something delicious without the carbs.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have this flavorful casserole ready in under an hour.
- Low Carb Delight: Enjoy all the taste of traditional chicken parmesan without the carbs—perfect for keto diets.
- Versatile Ingredients: Use leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand for extra convenience.
- Rich and Creamy Flavor: Cream cheese and heavy cream contribute to a luscious sauce that complements the chicken perfectly.
- Family-Friendly Dish: This casserole is sure to please both kids and adults alike with its cheesy goodness.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking process smooth, gather these essential tools before you start.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Oven
- Microwave
- Mixing bowl
- Baking dish
- Spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Oven: Essential for baking the casserole evenly and achieving that perfect golden top.
- Microwave: Quickly melts ingredients like cream cheese, saving time in the preparation process.
- Mixing Bowl: Provides ample space for combining ingredients without making a mess.
- Baking Dish: A good-quality dish ensures even cooking and proper serving directly from the oven.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for this Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe:
For the Base
- 3 cups chicken, cooked, chopped
- 2 oz cream cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic, crushed
For the Sauce and Topping
- 1 cup grated Parmesan, divided into 1/4 cup and 3/4 cup
- 1 cup marinara sauce, low carb
- 1 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 3/4 cup crushed beef rinds
How to Make Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot enough when you’re ready to bake.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Mixture
Microwave the cream cheese, heavy cream, and garlic together for about 1-2 minutes until everything is melted. Stir well and add in 1/4 cup of parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth.
Step 3: Layer the Chicken Mixture
Combine this creamy mixture with your chopped cooked chicken. Spread this mixture evenly as the first layer in your baking dish.
Step 4: Add Marinara Sauce
Pour the low carb marinara sauce over the chicken mixture. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the top.
Step 5: Top with Cheese
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the marinara layer, ensuring even coverage.
Step 6: Finish with Crunchy Topping
In a separate bowl, mix crushed beef rinds with the remaining parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this crunchy topping over the mozzarella layer for added texture.
Step 7: Bake
Place your assembled casserole in the preheated oven. Bake for about 30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. Allow it to cool slightly before serving.
Now you have an easy-to-follow recipe that brings together all the delightful flavors of Keto Chicken Parmesan! Enjoy your meal!
How to Serve Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe
Serving your Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole is simple and can be enjoyed in various ways. This dish is versatile, allowing you to pair it with different sides or garnishes to enhance its flavors.
Classic Salad
- A fresh green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the casserole perfectly.
Garlic Bread Alternative
- Use keto-friendly bread to make garlic bread. Spread garlic butter on the slices and toast them until golden for a crunchy side.
Steamed Vegetables
- Serve steamed broccoli or zucchini on the side. Their mild flavor pairs well with the rich casserole.
Avocado Slices
- Fresh avocado slices add creaminess and healthy fats, balancing the dish’s richness.
Pickled Vegetables
- A small serving of pickled vegetables offers a tangy contrast that brightens up the meal.
How to Perfect Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe
To elevate your Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole, consider these helpful tips for perfecting your dish each time you make it.
Use cooked rotisserie chicken: Saves time and adds flavor. Shred or chop it before layering in the casserole.
Adjust the cheese: Experiment with different cheese blends like provolone or gouda for unique flavors while staying low carb.
Add vegetables: Sneak in some spinach or mushrooms for added nutrients and texture without affecting the carb count significantly.
Control seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Adding herbs like oregano or basil can enhance the Italian flavor profile.
Let it cool before serving: Allowing the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking helps it set better, making it easier to serve.
Best Side Dishes for Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe
Complementing your Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole with delicious sides can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:
- Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative to traditional rice, easy to prepare by simply sautéing cauliflower florets until tender.
- Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini tossed in olive oil makes a light and refreshing side that absorbs flavors well.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and roasted until crispy; these add a crunchy texture that pairs well with casserole.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: Fill bell peppers with seasoned vegetables or ground turkey for an appetizing side that’s also filling.
- Keto Coleslaw: Made with cabbage and a low-carb dressing, this crunchy side adds freshness to your plate.
- Spinach Salad: Lightly dressed spinach salad with nuts can provide a nice contrast to the warm casserole while being nutritious.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making the Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Using cold ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and heavy cream are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can prevent a smooth mixture.
- Skipping the layering step: Layering is crucial for even cooking and flavor distribution. Don’t just mix everything together; follow the layering instructions.
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on the casserole while it bakes. Overbaking can dry out the chicken and cheese, leading to a less enjoyable dish.
- Neglecting seasoning: While marinara sauce adds flavor, don’t forget to season your chicken mixture with salt and pepper for a tasty base.
- Not letting it cool: Allow the casserole to cool before serving. This helps it set and makes it easier to cut into portions.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- The Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe lasts up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap.
- It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for 1-2 minutes, checking every 30 seconds until hot.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe that might help you.
Can I use rotisserie chicken in this recipe?
Yes, using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut! Just make sure it’s shredded or chopped before mixing it into the casserole.
How can I make this keto chicken parmesan casserole spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the marinara sauce layer.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, try using cashew cream or dairy-free cream cheese designed for keto diets.
Is this casserole suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! The Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and store it in individual portions for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
The Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding vegetables like spinach or zucchini or swapping out cheeses based on your preferences. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that satisfies cravings while keeping your diet on track. Give it a try, and enjoy every bite!
Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Enjoy this easy Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe that’s low carb and packed with flavor! Perfect for weeknight dinners—try it today!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately six people 1x
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked, chopped chicken
- 2 oz cream cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon crushed garlic
- 1 cup low-carb marinara sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
- 3/4 cup crushed beef rinds
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine cream cheese, heavy cream, and garlic. Microwave for 1-2 minutes until melted and stir in 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese until smooth.
- Mix the creamy mixture with chopped chicken and spread it evenly in a baking dish.
- Pour marinara sauce over the chicken layer and spread evenly.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- In a separate bowl, mix crushed beef rinds with remaining Parmesan cheese and sprinkle over the mozzarella layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1/6 of the casserole (about 250g)
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 95mg