Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole

This Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole is perfect for busy weeknights! Bursting with delicious BBQ flavors, melty cheese, and a satisfying crunch from the cabbage, it’s a meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner or looking for a flavorful dish to impress guests, this casserole stands out with its ease of preparation and mouthwatering taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes of prep time, you can whip this dish up without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of sugar-free BBQ sauce and melted cheese delivers an explosion of flavors that satisfy any craving.
• Low-Carb Delight: Perfect for those on a keto diet, this casserole keeps carbs low while ensuring high protein intake.
• One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in one skillet, making clean-up a breeze and allowing you to enjoy your meal without hassle.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will be asking for seconds thanks to the comforting and familiar flavors.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making this Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast-iron skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast-iron skillet: Ideal for even cooking and excellent heat retention, ensuring your casserole is perfectly baked.
• Mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients without making a mess.
• Measuring cups: Helps ensure accurate ingredient amounts for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 ½ lbs cooked shredded chicken breast
• 8.5 ounces sugar-free bbq sauce
• ½ teaspoon garlic salt
• ½ cup diced red onion
• 2 ½ cups coleslaw mix (or shredded cabbage)
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese (grated)
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (grated)
• 6 slices Turkey Bacon (cooked and crumbled)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F. This ensures that your casserole bakes evenly and thoroughly.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Mixture

Place the shredded chicken in a cast-iron skillet. Pour the sugar-free BBQ sauce over the chicken.

Step 3: Add Seasoning and Cheese

Toss in the garlic salt and diced red onion. Add half of the grated Monterey Jack and sharp cheddar cheese. Mix until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Layer with Cabbage

Top the chicken mixture with the coleslaw mix or shredded cabbage. Sprinkle the remaining grated cheese and crumbled Turkey Bacon on top.

Step 5: Bake It

Place the skillet in the preheated oven. Bake for about 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious keto-friendly meal!

How to Serve Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole

Serving Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole is easy and versatile. Here are some ideas to enhance your dining experience.

Family Style

• Serve the casserole straight from the skillet for a rustic look that invites everyone to dig in.
• Pair it with a fresh salad for a light, balanced meal.

Individual Portions

• Spoon out servings into individual bowls for a more elegant presentation.
• Top with extra BBQ sauce or fresh herbs for added flavor and color.

With Toppings

• Add sliced green onions or cilantro on top just before serving for a burst of freshness.
• Offer toppings like avocado slices or sour cream on the side for guests to customize their dish.

How to Perfect Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole

Perfecting your Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole can elevate this dish to new heights. Here are some helpful tips.

• Use high-quality chicken: Fresh, cooked shredded chicken enhances the flavor and texture of your casserole.
• Experiment with sauces: Try different sugar-free BBQ sauces to find your favorite flavor profile.
• Add vegetables: Consider incorporating bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and crunch.
• Adjust cheese types: Mix different cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
• Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on the casserole as it bakes to ensure the cheese doesn’t burn while achieving that perfect melt.
• Let it cool slightly before serving: Allowing it to rest for a few minutes helps set the layers, making it easier to serve.

Best Side Dishes for Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole

Pairing side dishes with your Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole can complement its flavors wonderfully. Here are some great options.

1. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that absorbs flavors well, making it an ideal pairing.
2. Garlic Butter Asparagus: Lightly sautéed asparagus drizzled with garlic butter adds a fresh crunch and vibrant color.
3. Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini tossed in olive oil offers a refreshing, low-carb side that balances richness.
4. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts with crispy edges provide a deliciously nutty flavor contrast.
5. Keto Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage and a sugar-free dressing complements the casserole perfectly.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Filled with cheese and spices, these peppers add color and nutrition alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect your dish. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Using regular BBQ sauce: Regular BBQ sauce contains sugar that can kick you out of ketosis. Always choose a sugar-free BBQ sauce to keep it keto-friendly.
• Overcooking the chicken: While using leftover shredded chicken is great, overcooking it in the oven can dry it out. Make sure to monitor the baking time closely for juicy results.
• Neglecting seasoning: Not adding enough seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Don’t skip the garlic salt; it enhances the overall taste and complements the BBQ sauce.
• Forgetting the cheese: Cheese is a key ingredient in this casserole. Skipping or reducing cheese can make your dish less creamy and flavorful. Use both Monterey Jack and sharp cheddar for the best results.
• Not mixing thoroughly: Failing to mix all ingredients well can result in uneven flavor distribution. Ensure everything is combined before layering on the cabbage and cheese.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the casserole to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• To maintain quality, wrap tightly with plastic wrap before placing it in a container.

Reheating Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for 1-2 minutes or until warm, stirring halfway.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole?

Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole is a low-carb dish made with shredded chicken, sugar-free BBQ sauce, cheese, and cabbage. It offers comforting flavors while maintaining a keto-friendly profile.

Can I customize my Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables like bell peppers or swap out meats for turkey or beef. Just ensure that any substitutions align with your dietary preferences.

How do I know if my casserole is done?

Your casserole is done when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F for safety.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole makes an excellent meal prep option due to its easy storage and reheating capabilities, making busy nights hassle-free.

Final Thoughts

This Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole brings together delicious flavors while remaining healthy and low-carb. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences, making it a perfect addition to your meal rotation. Don’t hesitate—give this recipe a try, and enjoy a hearty dish that’s both satisfying and keto-friendly!

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Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole is a deliciously simple dish that transforms leftover chicken into a flavor-packed meal, ideal for busy weeknights. This recipe combines tender shredded chicken with zesty sugar-free BBQ sauce, melty cheese, and crunchy cabbage for a satisfying one-pan wonder. In just 30 minutes, you can create a hearty casserole that not only delights the taste buds but also aligns perfectly with your keto lifestyle. Perfect for family dinners or impressing guests, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Say goodbye to complicated recipes—this easy-to-make dish will have everyone asking for seconds!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 ½ lbs cooked shredded chicken breast
• 8.5 ounces sugar-free bbq sauce
• ½ teaspoon garlic salt
• ½ cup diced red onion
• 2 ½ cups coleslaw mix (or shredded cabbage)
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese (grated)
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (grated)
• 6 slices Turkey Bacon (cooked and crumbled)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. In a cast-iron skillet, combine shredded chicken and sugar-free BBQ sauce.
3. Stir in garlic salt and diced red onion, then mix in half of both cheeses.
4. Layer coleslaw mix on top and sprinkle with remaining cheese and crumbled turkey bacon.
5. Bake for 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
6. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Keto

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 375
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 33g
• Cholesterol: 110mg