Description
This Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole is a delicious low-carb comfort food that combines creamy cheese, smoky sugar-free BBQ sauce, tender chicken, and crispy bacon for a satisfying and flavorful meal. Perfect for those following a keto lifestyle or anyone looking for a hearty, gluten-free dinner option.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar-free BBQ sauce
- 1 packet ranch dressing seasoning mix
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Protein
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast or thighs, cubed
- 6 slices cooked bacon, chopped
Cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
Optional Toppings
- Additional shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese
- Extra cooked bacon pieces
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Mix the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sugar-free BBQ sauce, ranch dressing seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Add Chicken and Bacon: Gently fold in the cooked cubed chicken and chopped bacon into the creamy base mixture, making sure they are evenly distributed.
- Incorporate Cheese: Add ½ cup each of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses to the mixture and stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the mixture evenly into a casserole dish. Top with the remaining shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese plus extra bacon if desired for added flavor and texture.
- Bake the Casserole: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 6-8 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Broil for Top (Optional): For a golden, crispy top layer, switch the oven to broil and cook the casserole for 1-2 minutes, carefully watching to prevent burning.
Notes
- Use sugar-free BBQ sauce to keep the casserole keto-friendly.
- You can substitute cooked turkey or ground beef for chicken if preferred.
- Try different cheese combinations like mozzarella or blue cheese for varied flavors.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- When reheating, cover with foil to prevent drying out.
- This casserole can be prepared in advance and refrigerated until ready to bake, making meal prep easy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 33 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: keto BBQ casserole, low carb chicken recipe, sugar-free BBQ chicken, keto comfort food, cheesy chicken casserole
