Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole

This Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole is perfect for busy weeknights! Loaded with all your favorite BBQ flavors, plenty of cheese, and crunchy cabbage, we can just about guarantee it will become one of your favorites. It’s a simple dish that’s great for family dinners or meal prep for the week ahead, making it a staple in any kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This casserole can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic evenings.
• Delicious Flavors: The combination of BBQ sauce, melted cheese, and tender chicken creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein and low in carbs, this dish aligns perfectly with keto dietary preferences.
• Versatile Meal: Whether served as a main course or paired with a salad, this casserole fits various occasions.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this cheesy, flavorful dish.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole smoothly, having the right tools on hand is essential. These tools will help you achieve the best results while saving time in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast-iron skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Grater

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast-iron skillet: This versatile tool evenly distributes heat and retains warmth, ensuring your casserole bakes perfectly.
• Mixing bowl: A good mixing bowl allows you to combine ingredients easily without mess.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the desired flavor and texture in your casserole.
• Grater: Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties, enhancing the overall taste.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

For the Casserole

• 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)

How to Make Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly from the moment it goes in.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Mixture

Place the shredded chicken in a 10 or larger cast-iron skillet. Pour the BBQ sauce over the chicken.

Step 3: Season and Add Cheese

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

Step 4: Add Coleslaw Mix

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

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

Step 6: Serve Hot

Remove from the oven and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole!

Now you have everything you need to make a tasty Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole that’s sure to please!

How to Serve Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole

Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you want it as a standalone meal or paired with sides, there are plenty of options to explore.

With Fresh Salad

• A fresh garden salad adds crunch and freshness. Consider using mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers for a vibrant contrast.

Over Cauliflower Rice

• Serving the casserole over cauliflower rice is an excellent way to keep the meal low-carb while adding a subtle texture.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a fun twist, spoon the casserole into large lettuce leaves. This makes for a delightful finger food option!

Topped with Avocado

• Slices of creamy avocado on top provide healthy fats and a rich flavor that complements the BBQ taste perfectly.

How to Perfect Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole

To ensure your Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole turns out delicious every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Shredded Chicken: Pre-cooked shredded chicken keeps the dish flavorful and saves time during preparation.
• Choose Quality BBQ Sauce: Opt for a sugar-free BBQ sauce that suits your taste preferences, enhancing the overall flavor.
• Mix Cheese Varieties: Combining different cheeses like Monterey Jack and sharp cheddar adds depth and creaminess to each bite.
• Don’t Skip the Onion: Diced red onion brings sweetness and complexity to the dish, balancing out the flavors beautifully.
• Bake Until Bubbly: Ensure you bake until the cheese is melted and bubbling for an appetizing golden finish.

Best Side Dishes for Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole

Pairing side dishes with your Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles offer a low-carb alternative to pasta while absorbing flavors from the casserole.
2. Roasted Broccoli: Oven-roasted broccoli seasoned with garlic provides a crunchy texture and nutrient boost.
3. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: Creamy mashed cauliflower mixed with garlic creates a satisfying side without added carbs.
4. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with vinegar dressing complements the richness of the casserole perfectly.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with cheese and veggies make for an attractive side that’s also nutritious.
6. Avocado Salad: A simple avocado salad dressed with lemon juice adds creaminess and healthy fats, balancing flavors nicely.
7. Green Beans Almondine: Sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds provide extra crunch and nutrients to your meal.
8. Spicy Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Roasting Brussels sprouts with spices gives them a crispy exterior and enhances their natural flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole, it’s easy to overlook certain details. Here are some common mistakes to keep in mind for a perfect dish.

• Bold Ingredients: Always measure your ingredients accurately. Not using the correct quantities can drastically change the flavor and texture of your casserole.
• Bold Skillet Size: Using a skillet that’s too small may cause overcrowding. Make sure you use a 10 or larger cast-iron skillet to allow even cooking and melting of cheese.
• Bold Heating: Forgetting to preheat your oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat to 400°F before baking for optimal results.
• Bold Cheese Choices: Using low-quality cheese can affect taste and meltability. Opt for fresh grated cheese for the best flavor and texture.
• Bold Mixing: Not mixing the ingredients well can lead to uneven distribution of flavors. Be thorough when combining chicken with sauce and spices.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best freshness.

Freezing Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole

• Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in foil.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a non-stick pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole:

What is Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole?

Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole is a delicious dish made with shredded chicken, sugar-free BBQ sauce, cheese, and crunchy cabbage. It’s perfect for those following a keto diet.

How do I customize my Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole?

You can personalize this casserole by adding different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini or using different cheeses based on your preference.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it.

How do I ensure my casserole is not too dry?

To avoid dryness, make sure you add enough sauce and do not overbake the casserole. The cheese also helps retain moisture.

Final Thoughts

This Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole is not only quick and easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your taste preferences. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual gathering, this dish is sure to impress!