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Keto Chicken Casserole Recipe

Keto Chicken Casserole Recipe - Sweet Mama's Kitchen

I remember the first time I prepared a keto chicken casserole. The aroma filled my kitchen, and the anticipation grew as I layered the ingredients into my trusty baking dish. 
Each step in the process felt like a culinary adventure, combining health and flavor. If you're like me and appreciate meals that are not only healthy but also packed with taste, this recipe is a must-try.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 385

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, trimmed
  • 1 ½ tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
  • 2 cups tender broccoli florets
  • 1 cup finely sliced leeks white and light green parts only
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • ¼ cup sharp cheddar cheese, finely shredded and packed
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided
  • 6 tablespoons rich heavy cream
  • 4 ounces soft cream cheese
  • 2 tablespoons creamy Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon whole-grain Dijon mustard

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
  1. Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, grab your chicken thighs. Trim any excess fat and cut them into bite-sized pieces. In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken pieces.
    Season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Sauté until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
  1. In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and toss in the broccoli florets and sliced leeks. Cook these until the broccoli is bright green and slightly tender, around 3-4 minutes. You want the veggies to maintain some crunch as they will continue to cook in the oven.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, yogurt, mustard, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Whisk until well mixed and smooth. This creamy mixture will provide a luscious texture to our casserole.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed chicken and vegetables. Pour the creamy sauce over the mixture and stir until everything is well coated. Transfer this mixture into a greased baking dish.
Step 5: Add Cheese
  1. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the top, followed by the cheddar cheese. This will create a delicious cheesy crust as it bakes.
Step 6: Bake
  1. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 7: Serve
  1. Once done, take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish can be enjoyed hot, and it will smell divine!

Notes

  • Choose Quality Chicken: Use fresh, high-quality chicken thighs for the best flavor and texture. Frozen chicken is fine but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
  • Experiment with Spices: Add your favorite spices or herbs like thyme or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
  • Don’t Skimp on Cheese: Using a blend of cheeses can elevate the flavor complexity. Try adding some mozzarella or gouda.
  • Prep Ahead: You can mix the ingredients ahead of time and store in the fridge until you’re ready to bake, making it perfect for meal prep.
  • Keep it Moist: Consider adding a bit more cream or broth if you prefer a creamier consistency.