If you’re craving a comforting dish that’s both satisfying and perfectly fits your low-carb lifestyle, this Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. Rich, creamy, and bursting with smoky barbecue flavors, this casserole brings together tender chicken, crispy bacon, and gooey melted cheese all baked to perfection. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out, perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners where you want indulgence without the carb overload.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are delightfully simple yet thoughtfully selected to build layers of flavor and texture in your Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole Recipe. Each component plays a crucial role, from the creamy tang of cream cheese to the smoky punch of BBQ sauce and bacon. Let’s dive into what you’ll need:
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened): Adds luscious creaminess that holds everything together and makes the casserole rich.
- 1 cup sugar-free BBQ sauce: Provides that signature smoky-sweet barbecue kick without the carbs.
- 2 pounds cooked boneless skinless chicken (cubed or shredded): The hearty protein base that’s tender and satisfying.
- 8 slices cooked bacon (chopped): Brings a crispy, salty crunch that elevates every bite.
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar and Monterey jack): A melty, flavorful topping that browns beautifully in the oven.
How to Make Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole cooks evenly and the cheese melts to golden perfection by the time it’s done.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce Base
In a mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and sugar-free BBQ sauce until smooth. This creates a creamy, tangy base loaded with smoky flavor. Season with ranch seasoning, salt, and pepper to really amp up the taste.
Step 3: Incorporate Protein and Bacon
Fold in the cooked chicken and chopped bacon to the creamy sauce. Then, gently mix in 1 cup of shredded cheese to lock in that cheesiness throughout the casserole, making every forkful rich and comforting.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the chicken mixture evenly in a casserole dish. Then sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top. Cover with foil to keep moisture in and prevent the cheese from browning too quickly.
Step 5: Bake to Melty Perfection
Bake covered for 25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to stay juicy. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 6-8 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden on top.
How to Serve Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a fresh topping can brighten this rich casserole perfectly. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or green onions on top for a pop of color and a mild oniony crunch. A dollop of sour cream or a few slices of avocado also complement the smoky flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines best alongside crisp, low-carb sides. Serve it with a simple green salad or steamed broccoli seasoned with butter and garlic. Cauliflower rice or roasted Brussels sprouts make excellent low-carb partners that soak up the savory sauce well.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving individual portions in small ramekins for a more elegant presentation. You can also spoon the casserole over a bed of zoodles (zucchini noodles) or low-carb mashed cauliflower to stretch it further while keeping it keto-friendly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a perfect next-day meal or lunch.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture and taste.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers covered in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave portions, but be sure to cover the dish to keep the moisture locked in and prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar and Monterey jack provide a great balance of flavor and meltability, feel free to experiment with mozzarella, gouda, or a pepper jack for a little spice.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely. The Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole Recipe is perfect for meal prep since it stores well and tastes fantastic reheated, saving you time on busy days.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, try replacing cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and choose a dairy-free cheese. Keep in mind the texture and flavor will slightly differ but it can still be delicious.
How can I add more veggies to the casserole?
Feel free to stir in low-carb veggies like diced bell peppers, chopped spinach, or mushrooms before baking. Just be sure to keep the overall moisture balanced so the casserole sets well.
What can I substitute for bacon?
If bacon isn’t your favorite, smoked sausage or diced ham add similar smoky, savory notes that complement the BBQ sauce and chicken beautifully.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the comforting, cheesy goodness of this Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole Recipe to satisfy your cravings while staying on track with your keto lifestyle. It’s easy to make, delicious to eat, and versatile enough to become a weeknight staple. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite go-to meal!
Print
Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
A rich and flavorful Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole combining creamy cheese, savory bacon, and sugar-free BBQ sauce for a low-carb, satisfying meal perfect for dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup sugar-free BBQ sauce
- 2 pounds cooked boneless skinless chicken (cubed or shredded)
- 8 slices cooked bacon (chopped)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar and Monterey jack, divided)
- 1 teaspoon ranch seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole evenly and thoroughly.
- Mix Cream Cheese and BBQ Sauce: In a mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, sugar-free BBQ sauce, ranch seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined, forming the flavorful base of the casserole.
- Add Chicken and Bacon: Fold in the cubed or shredded cooked chicken and chopped cooked bacon into the creamy mixture, then mix in 1 cup of shredded cheese to enhance the cheesy flavor and texture.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the mixture evenly in a casserole dish, then top with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese for a cheesy crust.
- Bake Covered and Uncovered: Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes to heat through and meld flavors. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 6-8 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
Notes
- Use sugar-free BBQ sauce to keep the recipe keto-friendly by minimizing carbs.
- Cook the chicken and bacon ahead of time to save preparation time on cooking day.
- Ranch seasoning adds a nice depth of flavor but can be adjusted or omitted according to taste preferences.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the cheese mixture.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
