Name: Keto Chicken Alfredo Broccoli Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Keto
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced; 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen); 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil (for greasing the baking dish); Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

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Keto Chicken Alfredo Broccoli Bake is a creamy, low-carb casserole that brings together tender chicken, tender-crisp broccoli, and a rich Alfredo-style sauce for a family-friendly comfort meal that fits a ketogenic lifestyle. If you enjoy casseroles, try a related comforting option like this baked potato chicken broccoli casserole for another hearty meal. Below you’ll find everything you need to make this dish confidently, plus tips, serving ideas, storage advice, nutrition facts, and answers to common questions.

why make this recipe

This Keto Chicken Alfredo Broccoli Bake checks a lot of boxes: it’s quick to assemble, uses pantry-friendly ingredients, and delivers big flavor while keeping carbs low. Whether you’re busy on weeknights, feeding a crowd on the weekend, or meal-prepping for the week, this casserole is forgiving and adaptable. It’s a great way to stretch cooked chicken and turn simple components into a satisfying, cheesy dish that tastes indulgent even though it fits into a low-carb plan.

Beyond convenience, this recipe shines because it balances protein, fat, and vegetables in a single pan. The heavy cream and cheeses form a velvety sauce that clings to the chicken and broccoli, so every bite feels rich and comforting. If you’re cooking for someone who is new to keto, this casserole makes the diet easy to enjoy without feeling deprived.

This meal also plays well with substitutions and variations, so you can tailor it to what’s on hand. Use leftover rotisserie chicken for speed, swap in different cheeses for flavor shifts, or add herbs and spices if you want more complexity. For busy households, it doubles easily and reheats well, making it ideal for leftovers.

how to make Keto Chicken Alfredo Broccoli Bake

This casserole comes together in a few straightforward steps: prep the broccoli, combine ingredients into a creamy mixture, transfer to a greased dish, and bake until bubbly and golden. The directions below follow a simple flow so you can assemble efficiently and avoid overcooking the vegetables or drying out the chicken.

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
If using fresh broccoli, blanch in boiling water for 2–3 minutes, then drain. For frozen broccoli, thaw and drain any excess water.
In a large bowl, combine chicken, broccoli, heavy cream, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is coated.
Grease a baking dish or cast-iron skillet with olive oil.
Spread the chicken and broccoli mixture evenly into the dish.
Sprinkle extra mozzarella on top for more cheesy goodness.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbling.
Let cool for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Serve hot and enjoy!

The key points: don’t skip the brief blanch (or thawing and draining) step for broccoli — excess water can make the bake watery. Use pre-cooked chicken (shredded or diced) so the bake only needs time to meld flavors and crisp the top. If you want a richer sauce that clings even better, you can stir in a couple of tablespoons of cream cheese into the heavy cream before mixing with the other ingredients.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)
Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Ingredient notes and substitutions:

Chicken: Use leftover roasted or grilled chicken, rotisserie chicken, or poached breasts. For variety, try shredded smoked turkey or canned chicken if fresh is unavailable.
Broccoli: Fresh florets give a little more texture; frozen is fine and convenient. If using frozen, thaw and drain thoroughly to avoid a watery casserole.
Heavy cream: For a thicker sauce, blend in 2–3 tablespoons of cream cheese or mascarpone. For a dairy-free approach, full-fat coconut cream can be used, though the flavor will be different.
Cheeses: Mozzarella provides melt and stretch, while Parmesan adds savory depth. Swap part of the mozzarella for provolone or Gruyère for a nuttier profile.
Seasonings: Adjust garlic and onion powder to taste, or use 1–2 minced garlic cloves for fresher garlic flavor. Add a pinch of crushed red pepper for heat if desired.
Oil: Olive oil is recommended for greasing; butter can be used for a richer flavor.

Directions

Follow the steps under "how to make" to assemble and bake the casserole. Use an oven-safe dish or a cast-iron skillet for even heat. If you prefer a browned top, switch the oven to broil for 1–2 minutes at the end — watch closely to prevent burning. Allow the bake to rest a few minutes after removing from the oven so the sauce sets and is easier to serve.

Pro Tips for Success Keto Chicken Alfredo Broccoli Bake

Use well-drained broccoli: Excess moisture is the most common reason casseroles turn out watery. After blanching fresh broccoli or thawing frozen, pat the florets dry with paper towels.
Start with hot oven and pre-cooked chicken: Since the chicken is already cooked, the goal is to heat through and meld flavors, not cook raw meat. This preserves moisture in the chicken and prevents drying out.
Layer flavors: Mix half the cheese into the filling and sprinkle the rest on top. This guarantees a creamy interior and a golden, melty crust.
Don’t overbake: Check around 25 minutes. The bake should be bubbling and lightly golden. Overbaking dries the sauce and can make the chicken rubbery.
Let it rest: A 5–10 minute rest after baking helps the sauce thicken slightly for cleaner slices and easier serving.
Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the bake time if baking straight from cold.

Flavor Variations Keto Chicken Alfredo Broccoli Bake

Garlic-Parmesan Twist: Sauté 2 cloves of minced garlic in a tablespoon of butter and stir into the heavy cream before combining. Finish with extra freshly grated Parmesan and a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil: Stir in ¼ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained) and a handful of chopped fresh basil for Italian flair. This adds color and a sweet-tart contrast to the creamy sauce.
Mushroom and Spinach Upgrade: Sauté sliced mushrooms until golden and wilt a handful of baby spinach; fold into the chicken and broccoli for earthiness and extra veggies.
Spicy Buffalo Kick: Mix 2–3 tablespoons of your favorite hot sauce into the heavy cream for a buffalo-style bake. Serve with blue cheese crumbles or ranch on the side to mellow the heat.
Cheesy Ranch: Add 1–2 tablespoons of dry ranch seasoning into the filling and swap half the mozzarella for sharp cheddar for a tangy, kid-friendly twist.

Serving Suggestions Keto Chicken Alfredo Broccoli Bake

This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it thoughtfully can elevate the experience.

Lighter sides: A crisp mixed-green salad with a vinegar-based dressing complements the rich casserole and adds contrast. Arugula with lemon vinaigrette is a bright, peppery match.
Low-carb starch alternatives: Serve with cauliflower mash or roasted spaghetti squash for more bulk without many carbs.
Garnishes: Fresh parsley, chives, or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan brighten the dish visually and flavor-wise. A few lemon zest shavings add a pleasant, unexpected lift.
For guests: Plate the bake with a small side of roasted cherry tomatoes and a handful of toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for texture and color contrast.
Make it a potluck star: Bring it in a lidded cast-iron or oven-safe carrier. It reheats well in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15–20 minutes depending on portioning.

Storage and Freezing Instructions Keto Chicken Alfredo Broccoli Bake

Proper storage ensures leftovers stay tasty and safe.

Refrigerator: Cool the casserole to room temperature (no more than two hours since oven removal), then cover tightly with foil or transfer to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3–4 days.
Reheating: For single portions, reheat in the microwave for 60–90 seconds, stirring if needed. For a full dish, reheat in a 350°F oven for 15–25 minutes until warmed through and bubbling.
Freezing: To freeze, assemble the bake but do not bake. Wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap and foil, or transfer portions to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2–3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Baking from frozen: If baking from frozen, remove plastic wrap, keep foil loosely over the top, and bake at 375°F. Expect 35–50 minutes; remove foil for the last 10 minutes to brown the top.
Quality notes: Textures may change slightly after freezing; the cream and cheese can separate a bit. Stirring in a tablespoon of cream or sprinkling a little fresh mozzarella before reheating restores creaminess.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Estimated values for one serving (assuming 6 servings total):

Calories: 380–450 kcal
Protein: 28–34 g
Carbs: 6–9 g net carbs (total carbs 7–11 g; fiber 1–2 g)
Fat: 26–34 g
Fiber: 1–2 g
Sodium: 520–700 mg

Notes on nutrition:

These numbers are estimates and will vary with the brand of cheeses, the exact amount of salt used, and whether you use frozen or fresh broccoli.
To reduce sodium, choose low-sodium or no-salt-added cheeses and omit added table salt, relying on the Parmesan for savory flavor.
For fewer calories or less fat, substitute half the heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk and add 2 tablespoons of mascarpone or cream cheese to retain richness.

FAQ About Keto Chicken Alfredo Broccoli Bake

What makes this dish “keto” friendly?

The dish is considered keto-friendly because it focuses on high-fat ingredients (heavy cream, cheeses) and protein (chicken) while keeping carbohydrates very low by using broccoli instead of starchy pasta or potatoes. Net carbs per serving are generally under 10 grams, depending on portion size and exact ingredients. The heavy cream and cheeses supply energy from fats, which aligns with ketogenic dietary goals.

Can I use raw chicken in this recipe?

Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the method. If using raw chicken, dice it into bite-sized pieces and briefly sauté until mostly cooked (just until no longer pink) before combining with the sauce. This helps ensure the chicken finishes cooking in the oven without drying out. Keep a close eye on bake time; you may need an extra 5–10 minutes.

Is there a dairy-free version that stays keto?

You can make a dairy-free version that stays relatively keto by using full-fat coconut cream instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free, low-carb cheese alternative for mozzarella. Keep in mind coconut cream has a distinct flavor that changes the profile, and most dairy-free cheeses don’t melt the same way as mozzarella, so texture will differ. Adding a little extra seasoning helps balance the change.

Can I add other vegetables and still keep it low-carb?

Absolutely. Cauliflower florets, spinach, or zucchini work well and keep carbs reasonable. Swap up to half the broccoli for cauliflower to change the texture while maintaining low carbs. Avoid starchy vegetables such as potatoes or corn if you want to keep it keto.

How can I make the casserole creamier without adding many extra calories?

To increase perceived creaminess without a huge calorie bump, add 2 tablespoons of cream cheese into the heavy cream and melt it gently before combining. Cream cheese adds richness and body so you can use slightly less cream while keeping a velvety texture. Alternatively, use Greek yogurt (full-fat) sparingly mixed with hot cream to avoid curdling.

Will this recipe work in a slow cooker?

Yes, a slow cooker is possible but requires care. Combine all ingredients, place in the slow cooker on low for 2–3 hours until heated through and bubbly. Add the top cheese in the final 10–15 minutes for melting. Beware excess moisture from frozen broccoli or condensation — drain broccoli thoroughly and monitor doneness to prevent a watery outcome.

Can I make this ahead for a party?

Yes. Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. For larger advance prep, you can freeze the unbaked casserole and bake from frozen (see freezing instructions). Making it ahead lets flavors meld and saves you time on the day of your event.

How should I calculate accurate nutrition for my version?

For accuracy, input your exact ingredients and quantities into a nutrition tracking tool or app that allows custom recipes. Brands of cheeses and the specific cut and preparation of chicken can shift calorie and sodium totals. If you alter ingredients (e.g., swapping cheeses, using light cream), update the entries to reflect those changes.

Final Thoughts

This Keto Chicken Alfredo Broccoli Bake is a reliable, comforting dish that works for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, and meal prep. It balances creamy indulgence with low-carb sensibility, and it’s flexible enough to adapt to what you have in the fridge. With a few simple steps—blanching broccoli, mixing a cheesy sauce, and baking until golden—you get a satisfying meal that feels special without a lot of fuss. Try the flavor variations and storage tips to make it your own, and enjoy a hearty, keto-friendly casserole that the whole family can enjoy.

Keto Chicken Alfredo Broccoli Bake