Rich & Creamy Keto Chicken Alfredo Casserole (Comforting & Low-Carb!)
Indulge in a truly comforting and incredibly satisfying meal with this Rich & Creamy Keto Chicken Alfredo Casserole!Tender cooked chicken and crisp-tender green beans are smothered in a luscious, garlicky Alfredo-style sauce, then topped with melted mozzarella and crispy bacon. This hearty, one-dish meal is a delightful addition to your health journey – perfect for a cozy family dinner here in beautiful Puerto Vallarta!
Yields: 6-8 servings Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 30-35 minutes
Ingredients:
- 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded (about 3-4 cups cooked chicken)
- 12 ounces fresh or frozen green beans, trimmed
- 16 ounces (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened and cubed (full-fat recommended)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream (HWC)
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 6-8 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and chopped
- 2-3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Cooking spray (for casserole dish)
Equipment:
- Large pot (for steaming green beans)
- 9×13 inch casserole dish
- Medium saucepan (for Alfredo sauce)
- Whisk
- Large spoon or spatula
Instructions:
- Prepare Chicken & Green Beans:
- If not already cooked, cook your chicken breasts (bake, boil, or pan-fry) until done, then shred.
- In a large pot, lightly steam the green beans for 5-7 minutes (if fresh) or 10-15 minutes (if frozen), until they are crisp-tender. Drain well.
- Assemble Green Bean Base: Lightly spray a 9×13 inch casserole dish with cooking spray.
- Spread the steamed green beans evenly over the bottom of the prepared dish. Set aside.
- Prepare Creamy Alfredo Sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine the cubed softened cream cheese, heavy whipping cream, water, garlic powder, salt, and Parmesan cheese.
- Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the cream cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth, creamy, and well combined. This will take about 5-8 minutes.
- Layer the Casserole:
- Pour about 1 cup of the prepared cream cheese Alfredo sauce over the green beans in the casserole dish. Gently mix to coat the beans.
- Spread the shredded chicken evenly over the green bean layer.
- Pour the remaining cream cheese Alfredo sauce over the chicken, ensuring everything is well covered.
- Top the entire casserole generously with the shredded mozzarella cheese and the chopped cooked bacon.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the mozzarella cheese on top is melted and lightly golden brown. For extra browning, you can broil for the last 1-2 minutes (watch carefully!).
- Rest & Serve: Remove from the oven. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set slightly. Enjoy your rich and creamy chicken Alfredo casserole!
Tips for Success:
- Cooked Chicken: Having pre-cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!) makes this recipe even faster.
- Softened Cream Cheese: Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth, lump-free sauce.
- Green Bean Doneness: Steam the green beans until they are crisp-tender, as they will soften further during baking.
- Sauce Consistency: If your sauce seems too thick, you can add a tablespoon or two more water or even chicken broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Cheese for Topping: Mozzarella is great for melting, but a blend of mozzarella and a little Parmesan or provolone can add more flavor to the top.
- Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator (covered) for up to 24 hours before baking. You might need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the bake time if baking from cold.
Recipe Analysis & Dietary Classification:
This Keto Chicken Alfredo Casserole is a delightful addition to your health journey!
- High Protein: Yes, from the chicken, cheeses, and bacon.
- High Fat: Yes, from the cream cheese, heavy whipping cream, cheeses, and bacon.
- Low-Carb: Yes, this recipe is very low-carb by using non-starchy vegetables, lean protein, and high-fat dairy.
- Keto: Yes, this recipe is keto-friendly. All listed ingredients are suitable for a ketogenic diet.
- Gluten-Free: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.