Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

This Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole is a delightful low-carb meal that combines tender chicken, savory turkey bacon, and fresh broccoli in a creamy sauce. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this casserole is both easy to make and bursting with flavor. Enjoy it on busy weeknights or as a hearty dish for gatherings—the whole family will love it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This casserole comes together in just 15 minutes of prep time, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of spices, cheeses, and turkey bacon creates a rich taste that everyone will enjoy.
• Low Carb Delight: With only 5 grams of carbs per serving, this dish fits perfectly into your keto lifestyle.
• Versatile Meal: Great for lunch or dinner, you can also customize the ingredients based on what you have at home.
• One-Dish Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one casserole dish, saving you time and effort.

Tools and Preparation

Before starting the cooking process, gather all your tools to ensure a smooth experience. Having everything ready makes preparation easier and quicker.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Casserole dish (9×9)
• Large skillet
• Pot for blanching broccoli
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Casserole dish: Essential for baking the casserole evenly while keeping all the flavors locked in.
• Large skillet: Allows for even cooking of the chicken and helps create the creamy sauce without overcrowding.
• Whisk: Perfect for mixing sauces smoothly and scraping up any delicious browned bits from the skillet.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

This low carb casserole comes together quickly for a flavorful dinner that’s sure to please the whole family.

For the Broccoli Base

• 2 cups broccoli florets

For the Chicken Mixture

• 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 2 teaspoons garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• ¾ teaspoon dried chives
• ¾ teaspoon dried dill weed
• ¾ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder

For the Creamy Sauce

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded and divided
• ½ cup mozzarella cheese shredded

For Topping

• 4 slices Turkey Bacon (cooked and crumbled)
• 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese (grated)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

How to Make Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures even cooking when you’re ready to bake your casserole.

Step 2: Blanch the Broccoli

Place the broccoli florets in a pot of water over medium-high heat. Bring to a boil and blanch them for about 5 minutes. Immediately rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process, then drain well.

Step 3: Prepare the Casserole Dish

Add the blanched broccoli to the bottom of a well-greased 9×9 casserole dish.

Step 4: Season the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine chicken pieces with chives, parsley, dill weed, garlic powder, and onion powder. Toss until all pieces are coated evenly.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken pieces to the skillet and sauté until they are fully cooked through.

Step 6: Add Garlic

Once chicken is cooked, add minced garlic into the pan. Sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 7: Combine Chicken with Broccoli

Remove cooked chicken from skillet and transfer it into your casserole dish with broccoli.

Step 8: Create Creamy Sauce

Reduce heat on stove to medium. Add heavy whipping cream into the same skillet used for chicken. Use a whisk to scrape off any browned bits from bottom of pan as you cook until thickened.

Step 9: Add Cheese

Stir in half a cup of shredded cheddar cheese along with mozzarella cheese into cream mixture. Season with salt and pepper if desired.

Step 10: Assemble Casserole

Pour thickened cheese mixture over chicken and broccoli in casserole dish. Toss gently to coat everything well.

Step 11: Top It Off

Sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese on top of your casserole mixture. Then add crumbled turkey bacon and grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 12: Bake

Bake for about 20 minutes or until top is browned and bubbling.

Step 13: Serve

Allow to sit for about 5 minutes before serving so that everything sets nicely. Enjoy your delicious Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole!

How to Serve Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole is a comforting dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

Family Style

• Serve the casserole right from the dish at the table for a cozy, family-style meal that encourages sharing and conversation.

Individual Portions

• Spoon the casserole into individual bowls for a more personal touch. This method allows each person to customize their toppings or sides.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each serving with fresh parsley or chives to add a pop of color and enhance the flavor profile.

Accompanied by Salad

• Serve alongside a fresh green salad. A simple mix of arugula, spinach, or romaine with a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the casserole perfectly.

How to Perfect Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

To ensure your Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh broccoli and quality chicken make all the difference in flavor and texture.
• Don’t overcook the chicken – Cook until just done to keep it juicy; overcooking can lead to dryness.
• Adjust seasoning – Taste as you go! Everyone’s palate is different, so feel free to tweak the spices according to your preferences.
• Let it rest – Allowing the casserole to sit for 5 minutes before serving helps it set and makes it easier to serve.
• Experiment with cheeses – Try adding different types of cheese like pepper jack or gouda for a unique twist on flavor.
• Make it ahead – Prepare your casserole in advance, refrigerate, and bake it when you’re ready for an easy weeknight dinner.

Best Side Dishes for Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

Pairing side dishes with your Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole can enhance your meal even further. Here are some delicious options:

1. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower – A creamy low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes, flavored with garlic for extra bite.
2. Zucchini Noodles – Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles provide a fresh and crunchy contrast to the rich casserole.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts add depth with their nutty flavor and crisp texture.
4. Cauliflower Rice – A great low-carb option that can soak up any leftover sauce from the casserole.
5. Steamed Asparagus – Tender asparagus spears bring brightness and color while remaining simple and healthy.
6. Cucumber Salad – A refreshing cucumber salad with dill and yogurt adds a cool contrast to the richness of the casserole.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for.

• Ignoring Ingredient Quality: Using low-quality ingredients can affect the flavor and texture of your casserole. Always opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality meats for the best results.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Cook until just done, as it will continue cooking in the oven.

• Skipping Seasoning: Failing to season properly can lead to a bland dish. Use salt, pepper, and herbs generously to enhance flavors.

• Not Blanching Broccoli: Skipping this step can result in tough, undercooked broccoli. Blanching ensures the broccoli is tender and flavorful.

• Using the Wrong Cheese: Not all cheeses melt well. Stick with cheddar and mozzarella for a creamy texture that binds everything together.

• Rushing the Baking Time: If you rush this step, your casserole may not develop a nice golden top. Bake until bubbly and browned for the best presentation.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Casserole can be kept in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil; freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake until heated through (about 20 minutes).
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole.

Can I use different vegetables?

You can certainly mix in other low-carb vegetables like cauliflower or spinach based on your preference!

How do I make it dairy-free?

To make this casserole dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free cheese alternatives.

What can I serve with Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole?

This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed green beans for a complete meal.

Can I use regular bacon instead of turkey bacon?

Yes! Feel free to swap turkey bacon with regular bacon if desired, keeping in mind it will alter the nutritional content slightly.

How long does it take to prepare?

The total time from prep to table is about 55 minutes, including cooking time.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well and is perfect for meal prep throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

The Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors with wholesome ingredients. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite veggies or cheeses. Give it a try today!