If you’re looking for a recipe that delivers all the cozy comfort of classic Italian favorites with a low-carb twist, Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole is about to become your new weeknight wonder. This dish is bursting with juicy chicken, bubbling melted cheese, savory marinara, and a satisfyingly crunchy topping—all without the extra carbs. Whether you’re feeding a family or just craving a hearty, flavorful meal that fits your keto goals, this casserole gets rave reviews every time it hits the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
When it comes to Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole, simple kitchen staples transform into something truly special. Each ingredient brings its own flair, creating a dish with layers of flavor and sublime textures that come together in every bite.
- Cooked chicken breast: Rotisserie or leftover chicken makes this recipe lightning-fast and gives the casserole tons of protein.
- Sugar-free marinara sauce: Look for a marinara without added sugar to keep things keto and to deliver that classic zingy tomato flavor.
- Garlic powder: A sprinkle infuses the casserole with a deep, garlicky richness that ties the flavors together.
- Italian seasoning: This essential blend packs in big, herby, aromatic notes that scream comfort food.
- Salt and black pepper: Just the right amount highlights all the other ingredients and keeps flavors balanced.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: The melty, gooey heart of the casserole that creates those irresistible cheese pulls.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds even more savory depth and lends that iconic “Parmesan” punch.
- Crushed pork rinds or almond flour: Choose your crunchy topping—pork rinds keep it classic and keto, almond flour works for a nutty alternative.
- Melted butter: Ensures the topping turns gorgeously golden and richly flavorful in the oven.
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional): A handful of fresh herbs at the end brightens the whole dish and adds a pop of color.
How to Make Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prep the Dish
Set your oven to 375°F so it reaches the perfect temperature while you prep the ingredients. Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish to make sure nothing sticks and cleanup is a breeze later on.
Step 2: Mix the Chicken and Sauce
In a big mixing bowl, combine your shredded or chopped cooked chicken breast with the sugar-free marinara sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until the chicken is thoroughly coated and those spices are evenly distributed. It already smells fantastic at this point!
Step 3: Layer Into the Baking Dish
Pour that savory chicken mixture into your greased dish. Spread it out with a spoon or spatula, making sure it’s evenly layered so every bite will be packed with all the good stuff.
Step 4: Add the Cheesy Topping
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the chicken in a generous layer, then follow up with the grated Parmesan. You get double the cheese, and trust me, it’s absolutely worth it for that classic Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole vibe.
Step 5: Prepare and Sprinkle the Crunchy Topping
In a small bowl, stir together the crushed pork rinds (or almond flour, if you’re nut-inclined) with the melted butter until everything is moistened and crumbly. Scatter this mixture over the cheese layer, making sure to cover every corner so the finished casserole bakes up with a perfect golden crust.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Slide the casserole into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until it’s bubbly at the edges and the top is shining with a deep golden hue that’s hard to resist. No peeking—let that heat work its magic!
Step 7: Cool and Garnish
Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes. This helps the bubbling cheese set just enough so serving is nice and tidy. Finish with a shower of fresh chopped basil or parsley if you’ve got it; the green pop makes the whole dish look restaurant-ready.
How to Serve Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Garnishes
Don’t underestimate the power of a simple garnish on Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole. A sprinkle of chopped basil or parsley right before serving adds a fresh, herbaceous lift that balances the cheesy richness. For extra flair, grate a little more Parmesan on top or dust lightly with cracked black pepper.
Side Dishes
While this casserole can easily stand on its own, it’s fun to serve alongside a light keto Caesar salad, steamed green beans, or zucchini noodles for that “pasta night” touch. These sides add brightness and crunch, playing beautifully off the savory, creamy main dish.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress or just shake things up, scoop the casserole into individual ramekins before baking. This turns your Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole into elegant personal portions. Alternatively, try stacking slices over roasted vegetables or even spooning it over sautéed spinach for a colorful, bistro-style plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole keeps wonderfully refrigerated for up to 3 days in a tightly sealed container. The flavors continue to meld, and it reheats beautifully for lunch or quick dinners.
Freezing
This casserole is freezer-friendly! Cool the baked casserole completely, then tightly wrap the dish or transfer portions to freezer-safe containers. Store for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the textures.
Reheating
To reheat, bake in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 15 minutes. You can also microwave individual servings for a speedy meal—just cover loosely to keep the cheese from drying out and preserve that gooey texture.
Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole FAQs
Can I use other types of chicken for Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole?
Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken, leftover chicken thighs, or even cooked ground chicken all work beautifully in this recipe. Feel free to use your favorite or whatever you have on hand.
What if I don’t have pork rinds for the topping?
No pork rinds? No problem. Almond flour is a fantastic substitute and still keeps everything keto. You’ll get a slightly nutty, deliciously crisp crust that pairs perfectly with the cheesy, saucy filling.
Can I make Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole dairy-free?
Of course! Swap in your favorite plant-based cheese alternatives and use vegan butter for the topping. The result will still be cozy and delicious with that classic Italian flair.
How can I make this casserole a little spicy?
If you’re a fan of some heat, simply add red pepper flakes or some chopped jalapeños into your marinara chicken mixture before baking. It’s an easy way to kick things up while still pairing well with the creamy cheese and crunchy topping.
Is Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole gluten-free?
Yes, it is! By using pork rinds or almond flour for the topping and a sugar-free marinara, the casserole stays perfectly gluten-free without sacrificing taste or texture.
Final Thoughts
If you’re after a crave-worthy dinner that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying to devour, Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole is calling your name. It’s the kind of dish you’ll make on repeat, whether you’re low-carb or just love bold, comforting flavors. Give it a try soon—you’ll see why this one’s quickly become a dinnertime favorite!
Print
Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in this flavorful Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole that brings together tender chicken, gooey cheeses, and a crispy topping for a satisfying low-carb meal.
Ingredients
Main Dish:
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or chopped)
- 1 cup sugar-free marinara sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Topping:
- 1/2 cup crushed pork rinds (or almond flour)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Garnish:
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Mix ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine cooked chicken with marinara sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Layer: Spread the mixture into a greased 8×8-inch baking dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Prepare topping: Mix crushed pork rinds (or almond flour) with melted butter. Sprinkle over the cheese layer.
- Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Let cool for 5 minutes, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve.
Notes
- Great use for leftover or rotisserie chicken.
- Swap in ground chicken or turkey if preferred.
- To make it spicier, add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the sauce.
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