Description
This Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole is a rich, creamy, and cheesy low-carb comfort food packed with smoky BBQ flavors, tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a melty cheese finish. Perfect for a satisfying meal that stays within keto guidelines, this casserole combines cream cheese, sugar-free BBQ sauce, ranch seasoning, and a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses baked to bubbly perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Base
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar-free BBQ sauce
- 1 tbsp ranch dressing mix
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Protein
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast or thighs, cubed
- 6 slices cooked bacon, chopped (plus extra for topping if desired)
Cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking the casserole evenly.
- Mix the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sugar-free BBQ sauce, ranch dressing mix, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy to form the flavorful base of the casserole.
- Add Chicken and Bacon: Gently fold in the cooked, cubed chicken and chopped bacon into the creamy base mixture, ensuring even distribution without breaking up the chicken too much.
- Incorporate Cheese: Add half of the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses (½ cup each) into the bowl and stir to combine well with the other ingredients.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the combined mixture evenly into a greased casserole dish. Then evenly top with the remaining shredded cheeses and extra chopped bacon if desired for added flavor and texture.
- Bake Covered: Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the casserole to heat through without drying out.
- Uncover and Bake: Remove the foil and continue baking for another 6-8 minutes until the cheese topping is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
Notes
- For a crispy, golden top, switch your oven to broil during the last 1-2 minutes of baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- This casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- When reheating, cover with foil to retain moisture and prevent drying out.
- Prepare the casserole in advance and store it covered in the fridge; bake when ready for an easy meal prep option.
- To vary flavors, try substituting the chicken with cooked turkey or ground beef, and experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or blue cheese for a unique taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 33 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Keto BBQ chicken casserole, low carb casserole, keto comfort food, sugar-free BBQ chicken bake, cheesy chicken casserole, keto meal prep
