Easy Keto Loaded Chicken Casserole (Low-Carb & Cheesy Comfort!)
Indulge in pure comfort with this incredibly easy and delicious Loaded Chicken Casserole! Tender baked chicken is smothered in a rich, creamy blend of cream cheese, crispy bacon, and shredded cheddar, all seasoned to perfection. It’s a satisfying, low-carb, and gluten-free meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep!
Yields: 4-6 servings Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 40-45 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 to 1.5 pounds total), cut into 1-inch cubes
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 1 cup bacon bits (real crumbled bacon, not imitation; ensure no added sugar/fillers)
- 1 (8-ounce) block cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (freshly shredded recommended for better melt)
- ¼ cup chopped green onions (scallions), plus more for garnish (optional)
Equipment:
- 9×13 inch baking dish (or similar size)
- Large mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven & Prep Dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or a little butter.
- Prepare Chicken: Place the cubed chicken breasts in the bottom of the prepared casserole dish, spreading them out in a single layer.
- Sprinkle the chicken evenly with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Make Cream Cheese Topping: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, bacon bits, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions.
- Stir well with a spoon or spatula until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and the mixture is smooth and cohesive.
- Assemble Casserole: Spoon the cream cheese mixture evenly over the top of the cubed chicken in the casserole dish. Gently spread it to cover the chicken completely.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C) and the cheese topping is bubbly and lightly golden brown.
- Serve & Enjoy! Remove from the oven. If desired, garnish with extra chopped green onions before serving. Let cool for a few minutes before serving warm.
Tips for Success:
- Softened Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is at true room temperature for easy mixing and a smooth topping.
- Real Bacon Bits: Use real bacon bits (either store-bought or cook and crumble your own bacon) for best flavor and to avoid added sugars often found in imitation bits.
- Chicken Doneness: To ensure chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer. The time may vary slightly based on the size of your chicken cubes.
- Cheese Varieties: Feel free to experiment with other keto-friendly cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend.
- Add Veggies: For extra nutrients, consider adding some finely chopped spinach, cooked broccoli florets, or diced bell peppers to the cream cheese mixture (ensure they are well-drained if using frozen or watery vegetables).
Serving Suggestions: This casserole is a complete meal on its own! It also pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed low-carb vegetables like asparagus or green beans.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Recipe Analysis & Dietary Classification
- High Protein: Yes, this recipe is very high in protein from the chicken, bacon, and cheeses.
- Low-Carb: Yes, this recipe is very low-carb. All ingredients are naturally low in carbohydrates.
- Keto: Yes, this recipe is keto-friendly. All listed ingredients are suitable for a ketogenic diet.
- Bacon Bits: Advise users to check labels for hidden sugars or fillers, as some pre-packaged bacon bits can contain them. Best to use freshly cooked and crumbled bacon.
- Gluten-Free: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
