Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe
If you are craving a comforting, cheesy, and flavorful dish that fits perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle, the Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe will quickly become one of your go-to meals. This casserole brings together tender cooked chicken, rich ricotta, and fresh mozzarella all layered with a zesty keto-friendly marinara sauce and topped with a crunchy, golden almond flour crust. It’s the ultimate combination of creamy textures and bold Italian-inspired flavors, made simple enough for any weeknight dinner or special occasion. Plus, it’s a dish that the whole family will rave about while keeping you on track with your keto goals.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but play essential roles in building the rich flavors, luscious texture, and beautiful golden finish of this casserole. Each element complements the others perfectly, ensuring a balanced dish that’s hearty without being heavy.
- 2 pounds cooked chicken (diced): Provides the main protein base, tender and ready to soak up the cheesy, saucy goodness.
- 1 1/2 cups keto marinara (divided): Adds vibrant tomato flavor and moisture, making sure each bite is deliciously saucy but still keto-friendly.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Brings rich creaminess and a slightly sweet note that balances the acidity of the marinara.
- 5 ounces grated Parmesan cheese: Delivers a sharp, nutty flavor that enhances the overall savory profile of the dish.
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese (sliced): Melts beautifully over the top for that irresistible gooey, cheesy layer.
- 1/4 cup butter (melted): Used in the topping to create a crunchy, golden crust that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy inside.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping): Doubles down on the umami and adds a crispy texture once baked.
- 1 cup almond flour: Keeps the topping low-carb while giving a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor.
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil or parsley: Adds a pop of freshness and color, perfect for finishing the dish.
How to Make Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Chicken Mixture
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl, toss the diced cooked chicken with 1 cup of keto marinara and the ricotta cheese. Mixing these together creates a creamy and flavorful base that will keep the chicken juicy throughout baking.
Step 2: Layer the Casserole
Transfer that delicious chicken mixture to your casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Next, pour the remaining 1/2 cup of marinara sauce over the top to add a bright tomato layer. Then, sprinkle the grated Parmesan and top with the slices of fresh mozzarella. This layering sets up a beautifully melty, cheesy effect once baked.
Step 3: Prepare the Topping
In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, Parmesan cheese, and almond flour. This mixture will form a crisp, nutty crust when baked—essential for adding texture contrast to the luscious filling inside.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Sprinkle the buttery topping evenly over the casserole and pop it into the oven. Bake for about 25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly. For an extra special touch of color and crispness, place the casserole under the broiler for a few minutes at the end, but watch carefully to avoid burning.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh chopped basil or parsley over the top to add vibrant color and a hint of herbal freshness. This final touch elevates the dish visually and flavor-wise, making it ready to serve and enjoy.
How to Serve Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley not only brighten the appearance but also bring a fragrant lift that balances the richness of the cheese. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top can be a nice finishing touch for parmesan lovers.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with simple low-carb sides like steamed broccoli, garlic sautéed spinach, or a crisp mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. These sides keep the meal balanced and keto-friendly without overshadowing the casserole’s rich flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant presentation, serve individual portions topped with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of extra marinara sauce. You can also add roasted cherry tomatoes on the side for a pop of color and sweetness that complements the casserole perfectly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This makes it a perfect option for meal prepping or enjoying quick, flavorful meals throughout the week.
Freezing
If you want to save the casserole for longer, freeze individual portions or the whole casserole (before baking) wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as instructed.
Reheating
To reheat, place a portion in the oven at 325 degrees for 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. This method keeps the topping crispier compared to microwaving, which might make it a bit soggy.
FAQs
Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked chicken?
For this casserole, it’s best to use cooked chicken to avoid overcooking and ensure the texture stays tender. Using leftover roast chicken or poached chicken works perfectly.
Is there a good alternative to almond flour in the topping?
While almond flour keeps it keto-friendly, crushed pork rinds or finely ground flaxseed meal can also be great low-carb substitutes for a crunchy topping.
Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
This recipe relies heavily on cheese for texture and flavor, so dairy-free versions would require significant modifications and might not achieve the same creamy, melty results.
How spicy is this recipe? Can I add heat?
The casserole is mild by default, but you can add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinara for a little kick without overpowering the other flavors.
What marinara brands are keto-friendly?
Look for sugar-free or very low-carb marinara sauces with simple, natural ingredients. Homemade marinara using fresh tomatoes and herbs is an excellent option as well.
Final Thoughts
The Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe is a true gem when you want something that’s both satisfying and aligned with your keto lifestyle. Its layers of creamy cheese, tender chicken, and crispy topping combine to remind us how comforting and delicious low-carb meals can be. Give it a try for your next meal—you might just find a new favorite dish that’s easy to make and impossible not to love.
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Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
This Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a low-carb, high-flavor dish combining tender cooked chicken with keto-friendly marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, and a mix of Parmesan and fresh mozzarella cheeses. Topped with a buttery almond flour crust and baked until golden and bubbly, it’s a perfect comforting meal that fits a ketogenic lifestyle.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds cooked chicken, diced
- 1 1/2 cups keto marinara sauce, divided
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 5 ounces grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
Topping
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup almond flour
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil or parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to get it ready for baking the casserole.
- Combine Chicken Mixture: In a large bowl, mix the diced cooked chicken with 1 cup of the keto marinara sauce and the ricotta cheese until well combined.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the chicken mixture into a casserole dish. Spread the remaining 1/2 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the mixture. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and layer sliced fresh mozzarella cheese over it.
- Prepare Topping: In a medium bowl, mix the melted butter, 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, and almond flour together until the mixture is crumbly but combined. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the casserole.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the topping is golden and bubbly. Optionally, you can place the casserole under a broiler for a few minutes to brown the top further.
- Garnish and Serve: After baking, sprinkle fresh chopped basil or parsley over the casserole for a fresh herbal note. Serve warm.
Notes
- Use cooked chicken to save time; rotisserie chicken works great.
- Keto marinara sauce should be low in sugar to fit the ketogenic diet.
- Almond flour topping adds a crunchy texture while keeping it keto-friendly.
- Broiling at the end is optional but recommended for an extra golden crust.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
