This Keto Chicken Cheese Broccoli Casserole is exactly what I turn to when I need a fast, hearty, and low-carb meal that the whole family loves. It’s rich, cheesy, and packed with protein, making it one of my favorite keto comfort foods. Creamy cheese sauce envelops tender broccoli and juicy chicken for a casserole that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this dish because it’s simple, fast, and incredibly filling — all without breaking my carb count. It’s a great way to use up leftover chicken or a rotisserie bird, and it works well with pre-cut broccoli too. In just 30 minutes, I’ve got a bubbling, cheesy dinner on the table that’s perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends. The best part? I only need one baking dish to bring it all together.
ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
20 ounces fresh broccoli florets
2 tablespoons water (for steaming)
8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
1/4 cup mayonnaise
2 cups chopped cooked chicken
1 cup freshly grated cheddar cheese
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Steam the broccoli
I place the broccoli florets in a large microwave-safe bowl with 2 tablespoons of water. I cover it tightly with plastic wrap and microwave for 2 minutes, then let it sit covered for another 2 minutes. After that, I carefully remove the plastic and drain the liquid. - Make the cheese mixture
In a small bowl, I mix the cream cheese, mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until everything is well blended. - Combine the casserole
I stir the cream cheese mixture into the steamed broccoli along with the chopped chicken until it’s all evenly coated. - Assemble and bake
I spread the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and sprinkle the Parmesan over the top. Then I bake it for 15 minutes until it’s hot and bubbly.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Spice it up: I sometimes add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for heat.
- Add crunch: A sprinkle of crushed pork rinds or toasted almonds on top gives extra texture.
- Switch cheeses: Swapping cheddar for pepper jack or gouda gives a different flavor twist.
- Use frozen broccoli: If I’m short on time, I use thawed frozen florets — just make sure they’re well-drained.
- Bacon boost: A handful of chopped, cooked bacon stirred in adds even more savory depth.
storage/reheating
I store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. When reheating, I either microwave it in short bursts or warm it in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes until heated through. It also freezes well — I portion it out, freeze in individual servings, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, I often use frozen broccoli when I don’t have fresh on hand. I just make sure it’s thawed and well-drained before adding it to the dish.
What type of chicken works best?
I use leftover roasted or grilled chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even pre-cooked frozen chicken chunks. Just be sure it’s thawed and chopped before mixing.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Definitely. I assemble the casserole and refrigerate it until I’m ready to bake. I just add an extra 5–10 minutes of bake time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
Yes, I freeze it before baking or portion out leftovers after cooking. It keeps well for up to 2 months. I thaw overnight and reheat until bubbly.
Can I make this dairy-free?
While it’s a cheese-forward dish, I’ve substituted dairy-free cream cheese and shredded vegan cheese with decent results. I just watch the seasoning to keep the flavor balanced.
Conclusion
This Keto Chicken Cheese Broccoli Casserole is a go-to in my low-carb kitchen. It’s cheesy, comforting, and loaded with flavor, yet simple enough to throw together on a busy night. Whether I use fresh or frozen broccoli, leftover chicken, or a store-bought rotisserie, this dish delivers every time. It’s hearty, satisfying, and keto-friendly — the perfect combo for a winning dinner.
PrintKeto Chicken Cheese Broccoli Casserole
This Keto Chicken Cheese Broccoli Casserole is a creamy, low-carb comfort food favorite packed with juicy chicken, fresh broccoli, and loads of melty cheese. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. With only 4 net carbs per serving, this keto casserole is a delicious and satisfying way to stay on track with your goals.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 20 oz fresh broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp water (for steaming)
- 8 oz cream cheese, room temperature
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 cups chopped cooked chicken (rotisserie or leftover)
- 1 cup freshly grated cheddar cheese
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place broccoli and water in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and microwave for 2 minutes. Let sit covered for another 2 minutes, then drain.
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Add the chopped chicken and steamed broccoli to the cheese mixture and stir to coat evenly.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, until hot and bubbly. Serve warm.
Notes
- Spice it up with red pepper flakes or cayenne.
- Top with crushed pork rinds or almonds for extra crunch.
- Swap cheddar with pepper jack or gouda for variety.
- Use thawed frozen broccoli to save time.
- Add cooked bacon for extra richness and flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of casserole
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 95mg