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Keto Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Casserole - Comforting, Low-Carb, and Easy

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-size pieces
  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 2 medium heads), cut small
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, divided
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder (or 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced)
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream
  • 3 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for tang)
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or chives (for garnish)

Method
 

  1. Prep the oven and pan: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or oil.
  2. Par-cook the broccoli: Steam or microwave the florets until bright green and just tender, about 2–3 minutes. Drain well so the casserole doesn’t get watery.
  3. Season the chicken: Pat dry. Toss with 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
  4. Brown the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Sauté chicken in a single layer until lightly browned and just cooked through, 5–7 minutes. Don’t overcook. Set aside.
  5. Make the cheese sauce: Lower heat to medium. Add butter, then cream and cream cheese. Whisk until smooth and gently simmering. Stir in Dijon, parmesan, and 1 cup cheddar until melted. Season with remaining salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Assemble: Spread chicken and broccoli in the baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce over and gently toss to coat. Top with remaining 1/2 cup cheddar.
  7. Bake: Cook uncovered for 15–18 minutes, until bubbly around the edges. If you want extra color, broil 1–2 minutes at the end.
  8. Rest and serve: Let it sit 5 minutes to set. Sprinkle with parsley or chives. Serve hot.