Keto Chicken Alfredo Broccoli Bake

Keto Chicken Alfredo Broccoli Bake is a creamy, low-carb comfort dish that brings together tender chicken, cheesy Alfredo-style sauce, and bright broccoli for an easy weeknight winner. This casserole-style bake is perfect for anyone following a ketogenic diet or simply looking for a satisfying, lower-carb alternative to traditional pasta alfredo. If you love family-style bakes, you might also enjoy the cozy, hearty flavors in this baked potato chicken broccoli casserole, which shares that same warm, comforting vibe.

Why make this recipe

This Keto Chicken Alfredo Broccoli Bake checks a lot of boxes: it’s quick to assemble, bakes into a bubbly, golden-topped casserole, and keeps well for lunches and leftovers. Many keto-friendly dinners require multiple steps or specialty products, but this recipe uses simple pantry staples and straightforward techniques. It’s a great option when you want something that feels indulgent without the carb load of pasta or bread.

The dish is family-friendly and adaptable. Kids and adults alike tend to respond well to creamy cheese and mild seasonings, and you can tweak the vegetables or protein to suit whatever you have on hand. Lastly, because it reheats beautifully, it’s a smart choice for meal prepping, potlucks, or bringing to a friend in need of a comforting homemade meal.

How to make Keto Chicken Alfredo Broccoli Bake

This bake comes together in a few clear stages: prepare the broccoli, mix the creamy sauce and ingredients, transfer to a greased baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden. All steps are forgiving, which means you can comfortably double the recipe or swap elements without worrying about precise technique.

Start with cooked chicken—rotisserie, leftover roasted chicken, or quickly pan-seared chicken breasts all work. The heavy cream and cheeses form the sauce with minimal fuss. If you prefer, simmer the assembled mixture a few minutes on the stovetop to thicken slightly before baking, but it’s not necessary. The oven does most of the work, melting and browning the top into a satisfying crust.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Ingredient notes and substitutions:

• Cooked chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for speed, or poach chicken breasts and shred them. If you prefer a non-meat option, shredded smoked turkey, firm tofu, tempeh, or sautéed mushrooms can replace chicken while keeping the dish hearty.
• Broccoli: Fresh broccoli gives texture; if using frozen, thaw and drain well to avoid excess moisture. Cauliflower florets are a great low-carb alternative if you want a milder vegetable or change in texture.
• Heavy cream: This gives the richest texture. For a lighter but still low-carb option, try half-and-half, though the finished bake will be less thick and rich.
• Cheeses: Use full-fat varieties for the best keto results and creaminess. If you need a dairy-free version, try a blend of unsweetened plant-based cream (like canned full-fat coconut milk, though that changes flavor) and a dairy-free shredded cheese made for melting.
• Seasonings: Fresh minced garlic can replace garlic powder (use 1–2 cloves), and a pinch of nutmeg can add classic Alfredo warmth if you like.

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. If using fresh broccoli, blanch in boiling water for 2–3 minutes, then drain. For frozen broccoli, thaw and drain any excess water.
3. In a large bowl, combine chicken, broccoli, heavy cream, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is coated.
4. Grease a baking dish or cast-iron skillet with olive oil.
5. Spread the chicken and broccoli mixture evenly into the dish.
6. Sprinkle extra mozzarella on top for more cheesy goodness.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbling.
8. Let cool for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Success Keto Chicken Alfredo Broccoli Bake

• Drain broccoli thoroughly: Excess moisture from frozen or blanched broccoli can make the bake watery. Pat the florets dry with paper towels after draining.
• Use hot chicken: If possible, use warm cooked chicken when you mix ingredients. Warm protein shortens bake time and helps the sauce meld faster.
• Pre-shred cheese: Buying pre-shredded cheese is convenient but sometimes contains anti-caking agents that hinder melting. If you want the creamiest melt, shred block cheese yourself.
• Don’t overbake: Pull the casserole from the oven when it’s bubbling and the top is golden. Overbaking can dry out the chicken and make the cheese rubbery.
• Let it rest: Allow the casserole to sit for 5–10 minutes after baking; this helps the sauce set for cleaner slices and safer serving temperatures.
• Adjust seasoning at the end: Cheeses vary in saltiness, so taste (carefully) and add a pinch more salt or pepper after baking if needed.

Flavor Variations Keto Chicken Alfredo Broccoli Bake

• Spinach and Artichoke Twist: Fold in 1 cup of chopped fresh spinach and ½ cup chopped artichoke hearts for a classic creamy combo. Spinach wilts down and adds color while artichokes add tang and texture.
• Sun-Dried Tomato & Basil: Stir ¼–½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (in oil, drained) and 2 tablespoons fresh chopped basil into the mixture for a Mediterranean kick. The tomatoes add sweetness and acidity that cut the richness.
• Bacon-Style Swap: For a smoky, savory pop without pork, add chopped smoked turkey or thinly sliced smoked mushrooms; smoked paprika (½ teaspoon) also gives a bacon-like depth.
• Mushroom & Garlic: Sauté 1 cup sliced cremini or button mushrooms with a tablespoon of butter until golden, then mix into the casserole for earthy umami flavors.
• Spicy Kick: Stir ¼–½ teaspoon red pepper flakes into the filling or mix chopped pickled jalapeños for heat that pairs well with the creamy sauce.

Serving Suggestions Keto Chicken Alfredo Broccoli Bake

• Serve with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to brighten the meal and add a fresh contrast to the rich casserole.
• Spoon onto a bed of cauliflower rice for extra bulk while keeping carbs low.
• Pair with roasted asparagus or sautéed green beans for an elegant, vegetable-forward plate.
• Offer small bowls of crushed pork rinds or toasted almond slivers for crunch if guests want texture contrast.
• For a heartier family-style dinner, serve with roasted baby tomatoes tossed in olive oil, garlic, and oregano.

Storage and Freezing Instructions Keto Chicken Alfredo Broccoli Bake

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently in a 350°F (175°C) oven covered with foil until warmed through, or in the microwave in 45–60 second intervals, stirring between bursts.
• Freezing: Cool the casserole completely, then cover tightly with foil and a layer of plastic wrap or place portions in freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating from frozen: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 30–45 minutes covered, then remove the cover for 10–15 minutes to crisp the top. Check the center temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C).

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving) — Keto Chicken Alfredo Broccoli Bake

Note: These values are estimates and will vary based on specific brands and exact portion sizes. The recipe makes approximately 4 servings.

• Calories: ~530 kcal
• Protein: ~30 g
• Carbohydrates: ~6 g
• Fat: ~41 g
• Fiber: ~1–2 g
• Sodium: ~490 mg

These macronutrient estimates show why this recipe works well on a ketogenic plan: it’s high in fat and protein while keeping carbs low. If you’re watching sodium, use lower-sodium cheeses and reduce added salt.

FAQ About Keto Chicken Alfredo Broccoli Bake

Is Keto Chicken Alfredo Broccoli Bake low in carbs?

Yes — this bake is intentionally low in carbohydrates because it replaces traditional pasta with broccoli and keeps the sauce based on heavy cream and cheeses. The main sources of carbs here are the broccoli and small amounts in dairy. Per serving, the net carbs are typically under 7 grams, making it suitable for many ketogenic meal plans.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free or lower in fat?

You can adapt the bake for dairy-free needs, but expect changes in flavor and texture. Use unsweetened full-fat coconut milk or a keto-friendly dairy-free cream substitute and a dairy-free shredded cheese that melts well. Keep in mind that coconut milk has a different taste, so add herbs and acid (like a squeeze of lemon) to balance flavors. For lower fat, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, but the dish will be less rich and not as thick.

How do I prevent the casserole from getting watery?

The two main causes of a watery bake are excess moisture from frozen vegetables and under-thickened sauce. If you use frozen broccoli, thaw it fully and press out as much liquid as possible with paper towels. You can also briefly simmer the mixed filling in a saucepan to reduce excess liquid before transferring it to the baking dish. Finally, don’t skip the short rest after baking so the sauce has time to set.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble the entire casserole and keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. If refrigerated assembled, you might need to add an extra 5–10 minutes to the baking time since it will go into the oven cold. For longer storage, assemble and freeze unbaked; bake from frozen and add 15–25 minutes to the baking time, or bake covered until heated through and bubbly.

What are good protein swaps for this recipe?

If you don’t have chicken, cooked shredded smoked turkey works well and adds a savory note. For vegetarian options, use firm tofu pressed and cubed, tempeh crumbles, or roasted chickpeas (though chickpeas add carbs). For a pescatarian twist, flaked cooked white fish or large peeled shrimp can be folded in near the end of cooking time so they don’t overcook.

Can this recipe be doubled for a crowd?

Absolutely. Double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish or two standard dishes. Keep in mind the bake time may increase slightly; look for bubbling edges and a golden top. If you use multiple dishes, you can bake them side-by-side in the oven, rotating once for even browning.

Final Thoughts

Keto Chicken Alfredo Broccoli Bake is a comforting, cheesy casserole that feels indulgent while staying low in carbs. With minimal prep and flexible ingredient swaps, it’s a practical weeknight dinner and a great candidate for meal prep. Whether you’re new to keto or just craving a cozy, home-cooked casserole, this recipe delivers creamy texture, savory depth, and satisfying leftovers. Try the simple variations and serving ideas to keep this bake in regular rotation, and enjoy how quickly it becomes a family favorite.

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