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Looking for an easy and satisfying dish that fits your keto lifestyle? This Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole is the answer! With just a handful of simple ingredients, you’ll create a cheesy, flavorful meal that your whole family will love. Join me as I guide you through each step, share helpful tips, and suggest delicious variations. Let’s make dinnertime exciting again with this quick and tasty recipe!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: This casserole is packed with the smoky and tangy flavors of BBQ, making it a comforting and satisfying dish.
- Keto-Friendly: With low-carb ingredients, this recipe perfectly fits a ketogenic diet without sacrificing taste.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, this casserole comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Family-Friendly: Everyone will love this dish, from kids to adults, ensuring a hit at the dinner table.
Ingredients
Here’s what you need for a tasty Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole:
– 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
– 1 cup sugar-free BBQ sauce
– 1 cup cauliflower rice (fresh or frozen)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– ½ cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Each ingredient plays a key role. The chicken gives protein, while the BBQ sauce adds flavor. Cauliflower rice keeps it low-carb. Cream cheese makes it creamy and rich. Cheddar cheese brings a nice melt and flavor. Spices like garlic powder and smoked paprika add depth.
You can choose fresh or frozen cauliflower rice. Both work well. Sugar-free BBQ sauce helps keep carbs down. If you like, you can add fresh parsley for a pop of color. This ingredient list helps you create a dish that’s both simple and satisfying.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step warms the oven for baking.
2. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cauliflower rice, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is well mixed.
3. Pour in the sugar-free BBQ sauce. Gently fold it into the chicken mix until it spreads evenly.
Assembly and Baking
1. Take a baking dish, about 9×9 inches, and grease it with cooking spray or olive oil. This helps prevent sticking.
2. Transfer the chicken mixture into the greased dish. Spread it out evenly.
3. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Cover the mixture completely with cheese.
4. Place the dish in the oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Look for bubbly and golden cheese on top to know it’s ready.
Final Touches
1. Once baked, take the casserole out of the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes.
2. If you like, garnish with fresh parsley for a nice touch.
3. Serve it warm and enjoy your tasty Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole!
Tips & Tricks
Tips for Perfecting the Casserole
– How to shred chicken easily: To shred chicken fast, use two forks. Place the cooked chicken on a plate. Hold one fork steady and use the other to shred the meat apart. This helps break the chicken into fine pieces. If you have a stand mixer, you can also use it. Just put the chicken in the bowl and mix on low speed.
– Tips for a creamier texture with cream cheese: To get a smooth mix, let the cream cheese sit out before use. Softening it makes mixing easier. When adding, cut it into small pieces. This helps it blend well with the other ingredients. Mix until fully combined for a creamy texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
– Low-carb alternatives to cauliflower rice: If you don’t have cauliflower rice, you can try riced broccoli. It has a similar texture and keeps the dish low-carb. You can also use shredded zucchini. Make sure to drain excess water to avoid a soggy casserole.
– Different types of cheese to use: While cheddar is great, you can mix it up! Try mozzarella for a stretchy, gooey texture. Pepper jack adds a nice kick. Even cream cheese can be used on top for a rich flavor. Use your favorite cheese to make it your own.
Serving Suggestions
– Pairing options with salad or sides: This casserole goes well with a fresh green salad. Try a simple mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers. You can also serve it with steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans for a colorful plate.
– Presentation ideas for serving: For a beautiful look, use a white dish to contrast with the golden cheese. After baking, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for color. Serve directly from the dish for a homey feel, or plate it for a more formal touch.
Pro Tips
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For added convenience and flavor, opt for pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. It saves time and enhances the dish’s taste.
- Customize the BBQ Sauce: Feel free to experiment with different sugar-free BBQ sauces to find your favorite flavor combination. Each sauce can bring a unique twist!
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate other low-carb vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added texture and nutrition. Just chop them finely and mix them in.
- Store Properly: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Variations
Flavor Variations
You can change the taste of your Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole by adding vegetables. Bell peppers add a nice crunch. Spinach gives it a fresh touch. Both blend well with the chicken and BBQ sauce.
Another way to mix it up is to use different BBQ sauce flavors. You can try smoky, spicy, or even sweet options. Each sauce brings its own twist to the dish. Experiment with these flavors to find your favorite.
Dietary Adjustments
If you want to make this casserole dairy-free, swap the cream cheese for a dairy-free spread. Use a plant-based cheese for the topping. This will keep the dish creamy without the dairy.
For vegan options, use shredded jackfruit instead of chicken. Replace the BBQ sauce with a vegan version. This way, you can enjoy a tasty meal that fits your diet.
If you have nut allergies, check your BBQ sauce. Some sauces may contain nuts or nut oils. Stick with brands that are clearly marked nut-free.
Meal Prep Versions
This casserole is perfect for meal prep. You can make a big batch and store it for later. To freeze leftovers, let the casserole cool first. Then, place it in an airtight container. It can last up to three months in the freezer.
For weekly meal prep, consider making several casseroles. Cook them, cool them, and freeze them. You can grab one for a quick meal during the week. Just reheat and enjoy!
Storage Info
How to Store
To keep your Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole fresh, refrigerate it right after it cools. Use an airtight container to keep out moisture and air. Glass or plastic containers work well. Make sure to seal the lid tightly. This helps maintain its taste and texture.
Reheating Instructions
When reheating leftovers, the oven is best. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warm. You can also use a microwave. Just heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes. Stir in between to ensure even heating. This keeps the flavors and texture intact.
Freezing Guide
To freeze the casserole, let it cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. This prevents freezer burn. You can also use a freezer-safe container. Label it with the date for easy tracking. For thawing, place it in the fridge overnight before cooking. Bake it straight from frozen, but add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time. Enjoy your meal anytime!
FAQs
Common Questions
Is this Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this casserole is great for meal prep. You can make it ahead and store it. Just divide it into servings for easy meals during the week.
How many carbs are in one serving?
One serving has about 6 grams of carbs. This low-carb count fits well in a keto diet.
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Yes, you can use rotisserie chicken. It saves time and adds great flavor to the dish.
Preparation Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
You can prepare it the night before. Just mix the ingredients and store them in the fridge. Bake it when you’re ready to eat.
How long does it take to bake from frozen?
If frozen, bake for about 40-50 minutes. Ensure it heats through and the cheese is bubbly.
General Recipe Questions
Can I substitute the BBQ sauce for a different type?
Yes, you can use any low-carb sauce you like. Just check the carbs to keep it keto-friendly.
What should I serve with Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a fresh green salad. You can also serve it with low-carb veggies like broccoli or zucchini.
You now have all the steps to make a delicious Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole. We went through the key ingredients needed, and I provided simple instructions for preparation and baking. I also shared tips for storing, reheating, and meal prepping this dish. Feel free to play with flavors and ingredients to suit your taste. Enjoy this tasty, low-carb meal that fits well into any weeknight dinner plan. Your cooking success starts her
Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole
A delicious and healthy casserole made with shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, and cheese, perfect for a keto diet.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 30 minutes mins
Total Time 45 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup sugar-free BBQ sauce
- 1 cup cauliflower rice
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 0.5 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- to taste salt and pepper
- optional fresh parsley for garnish
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cauliflower rice, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.
Pour in the sugar-free BBQ sauce and gently fold it into the chicken mixture, ensuring it is well distributed.
Grease a baking dish (about 9x9 inches) with cooking spray or olive oil. Transfer the chicken mixture into the dish and spread it evenly.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top, covering the casserole completely.
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh parsley if desired.
Dish out servings while warm and enjoy your delicious Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole!
Feel free to add more vegetables or spices to enhance the flavor.
Keyword BBQ, casserole, chicken, keto
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