Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

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by Vanessaa

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Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole is the ultimate dish for those seeking a delicious low-carb meal. This casserole combines tender chicken, crispy turkey bacon, and creamy cheeses with broccoli for a wholesome, flavorful dinner. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this recipe is both quick to prepare and satisfying. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s a dish that appeals to everyone at the table!

Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: This casserole comes together in just about 55 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
  • Flavorful: The combination of garlic, herbs, and three types of cheese creates a rich and savory flavor profile.
  • Low Carb: With only 5 grams of carbs per serving, this keto-friendly dish fits perfectly into your low-carb lifestyle.
  • Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy this comforting casserole packed with protein and veggies.
  • Versatile: Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or add more spices to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole, gather these essential tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Casserole dish
  • Large skillet
  • Pot for blanching broccoli
  • Whisk
  • Cutting board
  • Knife

Importance of Each Tool

  • Casserole dish: A good-quality dish ensures even baking and helps you serve directly from the oven.
  • Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing chicken and combining the creamy sauce without overcrowding.
  • Whisk: Essential for blending the heavy cream and scraping up all the delicious browned bits from the skillet.

Ingredients

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

For the Casserole

  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 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
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded and divided
  • ½ cup mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 4 slices Turkey Bacon (cooked and crumbled)
  • 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese (grated)
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)

For Garnish

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
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How to Make Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures your casserole bakes evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli

Place the broccoli florets in a pot of water over medium-high heat. Bring to a boil and blanch for 5 minutes. Immediately rinse in cold water and drain thoroughly.

Step 3: Layer the Broccoli

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

Step 4: Season the Chicken

Mix the chicken pieces with chives, parsley, dill weed, garlic powder, and onion powder. Toss well until fully coated in seasoning.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and sauté until cooked through.

Step 6: Add Garlic

Place 2 teaspoons of minced garlic into the pan with chicken during the last minute of cooking. Sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 7: Combine Chicken with Broccoli

Remove cooked chicken from skillet and place it into the casserole dish with broccoli.

Step 8: Prepare Creamy Sauce

Reduce heat on stove to medium. Add heavy whipping cream to skillet used for chicken. Use a whisk to scrape off any browned bits from bottom of pan as cream cooks until beginning to thicken.

Step 9: Add Cheeses

Stir in ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese along with mozzarella cheese into thickened cream mixture. Season with salt and pepper as desired.

Step 10: Assemble Casserole

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

Step 11: Top with Cheese & Bacon

Sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese over assembled mixture in casserole dish. Finish by topping with crumbled turkey bacon and grated parmesan cheese.

Step 12: Bake

Bake in preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until browned on top and bubbling around edges.

Step 13: Serve

Let sit for at least 5 minutes before serving so that it sets slightly. Enjoy your Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole!

How to Serve Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

This creamy and cheesy Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole is not only delicious but also versatile in how you can serve it. Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience.

Family Style

  • Serve directly from the dish – Allow everyone to help themselves for a relaxed meal.
  • Pair with a fresh salad – A simple green salad adds a refreshing crunch that contrasts beautifully with the casserole.

Individual Portions

  • Use ramekins – For a fun twist, serve individual portions in ramekins, making it perfect for entertaining.
  • Top with extra cheese – Add a sprinkle of cheese on top before serving for an appealing presentation.

On-the-Go

  • Pack for lunch – This casserole keeps well, making it a great option for leftovers. Just reheat and enjoy!
  • Add to meal prep containers – Portion out servings in advance for quick and easy meals throughout the week.

How to Perfect Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

To make your Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole even better, consider these helpful tips.

  • Bold seasoning choices – Adjust the spices according to your taste preferences for a personalized flavor.
  • Use fresh ingredients – Fresh herbs can enhance the flavors significantly compared to dried versions.
  • Experiment with cheeses – Try different types of cheese like gouda or pepper jack for unique flavor profiles.
  • Cook chicken thoroughly – Ensure the chicken is cooked all the way through before adding it to the casserole for safety and texture.
  • Don’t skip resting time – Letting the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking allows it to set properly, making serving easier.
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Best Side Dishes for Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

Pairing sides with your Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole can enhance your meal’s overall experience. Here are some excellent side dishes to consider.

  1. Cauliflower Mash – A creamy alternative to mashed potatoes that complements the casserole beautifully.
  2. Garlic Butter Greens – Sautéed spinach or kale tossed in garlic butter adds vibrant color and flavor.
  3. Zucchini Noodles – Light and satisfying, these noodles are a great low-carb addition that soaks up flavors nicely.
  4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crispy Brussels sprouts bring an earthy taste that pairs well with rich casseroles.
  5. Cucumber Salad – A refreshing cucumber salad can cleanse the palate between bites of cheesy goodness.
  6. Avocado Slices – Creamy avocado slices add healthy fats and a smooth texture alongside the casserole.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

  • Skipping the Blanching Step: Failing to blanch broccoli can result in a crunchy texture. Always blanch for 5 minutes and rinse in cold water to preserve color and nutrition.
  • Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Sauté until just cooked through; it will finish cooking in the oven.
  • Not Measuring Ingredients: Eyeballing ingredients, especially seasonings and cheeses, can lead to imbalanced flavors. Use precise measurements for consistent results.
  • Using Low-Quality Cheese: Low-quality cheese can affect the creaminess of your casserole. Opt for high-quality cheddar and mozzarella for the best flavor.
  • Neglecting Seasoning: Forgetting salt and pepper can result in a bland dish. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning before baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • item Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
  • item It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

  • item Allow the casserole to cool completely before freezing.
  • item Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in foil.
  • item It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

  • item Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake uncovered for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
  • item Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  • item Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to maintain moisture.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole?

Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole is a low-carb dish packed with chicken, broccoli, creamy cheese, and turkey bacon, perfect for those following a keto diet.

How do I make this casserole more flavorful?

You can enhance flavors by adding more herbs or spices like paprika or cayenne pepper. Additionally, consider using different cheeses for variety.

Can I use regular bacon instead of Turkey Bacon?

Yes! You can substitute regular bacon if you prefer its flavor; just be mindful of the added fat content.

How long does it take to prepare Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole?

The total time for prep and cooking is about 55 minutes, making it a quick option for dinner.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This casserole is great for meal prep since it stores well in the fridge or freezer and reheats easily.

Final Thoughts

Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole is not only delicious but also versatile. Its combination of flavors makes it a family favorite while fitting perfectly into low-carb diets. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping proteins. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole


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  • Author: Vanessa
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: Serves about 6

Description

Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole is the perfect low-carb dinner that brings together tender chicken, crispy turkey bacon, and a mix of creamy cheeses with nutrient-rich broccoli. This dish not only satisfies your cravings but also aligns seamlessly with your keto diet.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • 4 slices turkey bacon (cooked and crumbled)
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 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
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
  2. Blanch broccoli in boiling water for 5 minutes; drain and rinse.
  3. Layer blanched broccoli in a greased casserole dish.
  4. Season chicken pieces with garlic powder and herbs; sauté in olive oil until cooked through.
  5. Add minced garlic during the last minute of cooking; combine with broccoli in casserole dish.
  6. Prepare sauce by whisking heavy cream in the skillet until thickened; stir in cheese and seasonings.
  7. Pour sauce over chicken and broccoli; mix gently to coat.
  8. Top with remaining cheese and crumbled turkey bacon.
  9. Bake for about 20 minutes until bubbling and golden.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Keto

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 670mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 36g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg

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