This creamy keto chicken casserole is the kind of dinner recipe that checks every box: rich and satisfying, family-friendly, low in carbohydrates, and incredibly easy to prepare. Tender pieces of chicken are baked in a velvety, savory cream sauce with mushrooms, parmesan cheese, and gentle aromatics, creating a dish that feels indulgent while still fitting perfectly into a keto lifestyle.
If you’re looking for a reliable weeknight dinner recipe that also works beautifully for meal prep, potlucks, or feeding a crowd, this casserole deserves a permanent place in your rotation. The flavors are comforting and familiar, the texture is melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the prep is simple enough that even busy evenings feel manageable.
What makes this creamy keto chicken casserole especially appealing is how adaptable it is. You can use chicken breasts for a leaner option or chicken thighs for extra richness. The sauce is luxurious without being heavy, and the mushrooms add depth and earthiness that balance the cream perfectly. It’s the kind of keto dinner that doesn’t feel like a compromise—just good food everyone wants seconds of.
Why This Creamy Keto Chicken Casserole Works So Well
This dinner recipe succeeds because it focuses on texture and flavor rather than substitutions. Instead of trying to mimic carb-heavy casseroles, it leans into naturally low-carb ingredients that already taste amazing together. Heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and chicken broth create a silky sauce, while lemon juice adds just enough brightness to keep the dish from feeling overly rich.
Baking the chicken in sauce rather than serving it separately ensures that every bite stays juicy and tender. The chicken absorbs the flavors of garlic, onion, mushrooms, and cheese as it bakes, resulting in a casserole that tastes even better the next day. That makes it ideal for leftovers and meal prepping.
Kids and adults alike tend to love this recipe because it’s creamy, mild, and comforting. The sauce coats everything generously, and the chicken remains soft rather than dry—two things that instantly make this a family favorite.
Ingredients for Creamy Keto Chicken Casserole
This keto dinner recipe uses simple ingredients that are easy to find and naturally low in carbohydrates.
- Chicken breast, tenders, or chicken thighs (without skin) 770 g/27 oz
- Salt to taste
- Ground paprika 1 tsp
- Pepper to taste
- Onion 80 g/2.8 oz
- Garlic ¼ tsp
- Mushrooms cut in halves 500 g/17.6 oz
- Heavy whipping cream 1 cup/220 ml
- Parmesan cheese ½ cup/50 g/0.16 oz (¼ cup for chicken and ¼ cup for the sauce)
- Chicken broth or water 1 cup/220 ml
- Lemon juice 2 TBS
- Nutmeg ¼ tsp
- Parsley chopped 1 TBS
Each ingredient plays an important role. The parmesan adds depth and saltiness, the mushrooms bring umami, and the nutmeg subtly enhances the cream sauce without standing out on its own.
How to Make Creamy Keto Chicken Casserole
1. Season and Sear the Chicken
Begin by seasoning the chicken generously with salt, pepper, ground paprika, and a light sprinkle of parmesan cheese on both sides. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken until golden brown on the outside. This step adds flavor and helps lock in moisture. The chicken does not need to be fully cooked at this stage.
Transfer the browned chicken to a casserole dish and set aside.
2. Build the Flavor Base
In the same skillet, add chopped onion and garlic to the remaining oil. Sauté until the onion becomes soft, golden, and slightly caramelized. This creates a sweet, savory foundation for the sauce.
Add the mushrooms along with a pinch of salt and cook until they release their moisture and turn lightly golden around the edges. This step intensifies their flavor and prevents a watery sauce later.
3. Create the Creamy Keto Sauce
Lower the heat slightly and pour in the heavy whipping cream and chicken broth. Stir gently to combine, then add lemon juice, nutmeg, and the remaining parmesan cheese. Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes, just until it thickens slightly and becomes smooth and cohesive.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Assemble the Casserole
Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken in the casserole dish, making sure all pieces are evenly coated. Gently move the chicken around so the sauce settles into every corner.
Cover the dish with foil to prevent the top from drying out during baking.
5. Bake Until Tender
Bake the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes. The chicken will finish cooking in the sauce, becoming incredibly tender and flavorful.
Once baked, remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
6. Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for color and freshness. Serve warm.
What to Serve with Creamy Keto Chicken Casserole
This keto dinner recipe pairs beautifully with low-carb sides. Mashed cauliflower, zucchini noodles, or a crisp green salad balance the richness of the casserole. Steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus also work well and soak up the extra sauce beautifully.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
This creamy keto chicken casserole stores exceptionally well. Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to maintain the sauce’s texture.
You can also assemble the casserole ahead of time, refrigerate it uncooked, and bake it fresh when needed—making it perfect for busy weeks or hosting.
