Keto Chicken Alfredo Casserole
Keto Chicken Alfredo Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish perfect for anyone following a low-carb lifestyle. It’s packed with tender chicken, rich Alfredo sauce made with cream and…
Tip: save now, cook later.Keto Chicken Alfredo Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish perfect for anyone following a low-carb lifestyle. It’s packed with tender chicken, rich Alfredo sauce made with cream and Parmesan, and melty mozzarella cheese all baked together until bubbly and golden. The best part is it’s all low in carbs but full of flavor and satisfying textures.
I love making this casserole when I want something easy but feel like I’m treating myself. It’s one of those meals that fills the whole kitchen with delicious smells and makes everyone happy at the table. I usually use leftover cooked chicken or quickly sauté some fresh chicken breasts before mixing everything together. Sometimes I add a little garlic or Italian seasoning to give it an extra boost.
This casserole goes great with a simple green salad or some roasted veggies to keep things light and fresh. I like to make a big tray so there’s plenty of leftovers for the next day’s lunch—it reheats really well and tastes just as good. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a little cozy hug after a busy day.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Using cooked chicken breast keeps the dish lean and protein-packed. Leftover rotisserie chicken works great and saves time.
Mushrooms: These add a nice texture and earthy flavor. If you don’t like mushrooms, zucchini or bell peppers are good low-carb swaps.
Fresh Spinach: It brings color and a mild taste. You can swap in kale or frozen spinach (just squeeze out excess water) if you prefer.
Keto Alfredo Sauce: Heavy cream, cream cheese, and Parmesan create that rich sauce. For dairy-free, try coconut cream and nutritional yeast, but flavor will differ.
Cheese: Mozzarella melts beautifully for a golden top. Feel free to add cheddar or provolone for extra flavor variety.
How Do You Make a Smooth, Creamy Alfredo Sauce?
The Alfredo sauce is the heart of this casserole. Here’s how to get it silky and thick without lumps:
- Heat heavy cream and cream cheese slowly over low heat. Stir regularly so cream cheese melts evenly.
- Once smooth, add Parmesan a bit at a time. Keep stirring until sauce thickens slightly—it should coat the back of a spoon.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a tablespoon of cream to loosen it. If it’s thin, simmer a bit longer but stir often to prevent sticking.
- Don’t rush the melting process with high heat, as it can cause the dairy to separate.
This slow, gentle approach gives you a creamy, dreamy sauce that ties all the ingredients together perfectly!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×9-inch baking dish – perfect size to hold the casserole and helps it cook evenly.
- Large skillet – for sautéing garlic, mushrooms, and spinach easily.
- Medium saucepan – to gently melt cream cheese and make the Alfredo sauce smooth.
- Mixing bowl – to combine chicken, veggies, and sauce before baking.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for stirring without scratching your pans.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for cooked shrimp or sausage for a different protein twist that still fits keto.
- Add roasted broccoli or asparagus for extra veggies and a bit of crunch.
- Mix in some sun-dried tomatoes to add a tangy, savory touch.
- Use smoked mozzarella or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little smoky heat and spice.
Keto Chicken Alfredo Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Keto Chicken Alfredo Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 20-25 minutes to bake. So, plan for around 40 minutes total from start to serve. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal but feels like a treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish lightly to prevent sticking. This will be where all your creamy goodness bakes to perfection.
2. Cook the Veggies:
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant. Then add sliced mushrooms, cooking for 5 minutes until they soften and begin to brown. Stir in chopped spinach and cook for 2 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
In a medium saucepan on low heat, combine heavy cream and cream cheese. Stir frequently until the cream cheese fully melts, creating a smooth sauce. Add Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until the sauce thickens slightly and is creamy.
4. Combine Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix together the cooked chicken, sautéed mushrooms and spinach, and the Alfredo sauce until everything is evenly coated.
5. Assemble and Bake:
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
6. Serve:
Remove from the oven and let it cool a bit. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy, cheesy, keto-friendly casserole!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Casserole?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken before using. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Pat dry to remove excess moisture before adding to the casserole.
Can I Prepare the Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely. You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready, bake it directly from the fridge—add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through, adding a splash of cream if the casserole seems dry.
What Low-Carb Vegetables Can I Add?
Great options include broccoli, cauliflower, zucchini, or roasted asparagus. Just sauté or roast them beforehand to reduce moisture and ensure the casserole doesn’t get watery.
