One evening, while sifting through my pantry for something to whip up, I stumbled upon a treasure: a jar of zesty marinara and some leftover rotisserie chicken. That’s when the idea for my Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole sparked! This easy family meal combines tender chicken, robust marinara, and a cheesy crust, all while keeping it low carb and gluten-free. Not only does this casserole capture the essence of a classic chicken Parmesan, but it’s also a perfect solution for busy weeknights, leaving plenty of time for family fun. Plus, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that even the kids adore. Ready to indulge in a comforting dish that’s guilt-free? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe! Why is this casserole a must-try? Comforting, Hearty Meal: This Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole combines familiar flavors with a twist, offering a truly satisfying dish for the whole family. Easy to Make: Quick preparation means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time with loved ones. Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with veggies like spinach or swap chicken for turkey, making it adaptable to your pantry. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Kids and adults alike can’t resist its gooey, cheesy crust and zesty marinara – a guaranteed hit at the dinner table. Guilt-Free Indulgence: With low carbs and gluten-free options, you can enjoy that classic chicken Parmesan flavor without the guilt. Don’t forget to check out my Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas or Air Fryer Parmesan Garlic Chicken Skewers for more quick and tasty family meals! Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole Ingredients For the Chicken Base Cubed Rotisserie Chicken – Cooked and cubed chicken serves as the hearty base of this dish; feel free to swap it with cooked chicken breast for a fresh alternative. Non Added Sugar Marinara Sauce – Provides rich tomato flavor and moisture; using homemade marinara gives you better control over sugar content. For the Flavor Italian Seasoning – A blend of herbs that enhances the Italian flavor profile; fresh herbs offer a more intense taste. Minced Garlic – This key aromatic ingredient elevates the dish’s flavor; you can substitute it with garlic powder if needed. For Cooking Olive Oil – Used for sautéing garlic and chicken mixture; any preferred cooking oil can replace it if desired. For the Sauce Almond Flour – Acts as a thickener in the sauce; coconut flour or all-purpose flour works well for non-keto diets. For the Cheesy Topping Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds a savory, cheesy flavor and forms a crunchy top layer; opt for freshly grated for better melt quality. Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Provides gooey texture and richness; low-moisture mozzarella is recommended for the best results. Finely Crushed Parmesan Crisps or Pork Rinds – Creates a crunchy topping on the casserole; crushed crackers can be used for non-keto versions. For Baking Non-stick Cooking Spray – Prevents sticking to the casserole dish; a must for easy cleanup! With these ingredients, you’re on your way to creating a delicious Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole that will delight your family without the carbs! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that when the Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole is ready, it will bake evenly and thoroughly. Make sure to have your 9″x13″ casserole dish on hand, as you’ll be using it shortly. Step 2: Sauté the Garlic In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat until it shimmers. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly until fragrant but not browned. This aromatic start will enhance the flavor of your casserole, making it irresistible. Step 3: Combine Ingredients Next, add the cubed rotisserie chicken, Italian seasoning, marinara sauce, and almond flour to the skillet. Mix well, cooking for approximately 5 minutes until the mixture is heated through and fragrant. The chicken should be coated evenly in the sauce, creating a rich base for your casserole. Step 4: Transfer to Casserole Dish Carefully transfer the chicken-marinara mixture into your greased 9″x13″ casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. This will serve as the hearty foundation of your Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole. Ensure there are no gaps, as this helps the flavors meld beautifully while baking. Step 5: Add the Cheesy Layers Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese generously over the chicken mixture, followed by a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese, ensuring an even distribution. Finally, top it off with finely crushed parmesan crisps or pork rinds for that delightful crunch. Visualize the bubbling, cheesy goodness that’s about to unfold! Step 6: Bake the Casserole Place the casserole dish into the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the cheese should melt and become golden and bubbly, creating a mouthwatering crust. This is when the aromas fill your kitchen, promising a delicious meal ahead. Step 7: Let It Rest Once baked, remove your Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for 5 minutes. This brief resting period helps the layers settle and makes serving easier, ensuring that each slice holds together beautifully. Enjoy this comforting dish with your family! How to Store and Freeze Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole Fridge: Keep any leftover Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This ensures it stays fresh and ready for quick meals later in the week. Freezer: If you want to freeze the casserole, do so before baking. Cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed. Reheating: To reheat, place your leftover casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until heated through and the cheese is melted. This method helps maintain its delicious texture. Portion Control: Consider freezing individual portions for easy meals. This way, you can enjoy guilt-free comfort food whenever you crave it! Make Ahead Options These Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the chicken-marinara mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply sauté the garlic, mix in the chicken, seasoning, and marinara, then transfer it to your greased casserole dish and cover it tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating. To maintain quality, avoid adding the cheeses and crunchy toppings until just before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy this delicious dish, uncover, layer the cheeses on top, and bake directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed. You’ll have a comforting, home-cooked meal with minimal effort! Expert Tips for Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole Perfectly Sautéed Garlic: Ensure your skillet is the right temperature; garlic should be fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness. Resting Time Matters: Allow the casserole to sit for at least 5 minutes post-baking. This helps flavors meld and makes serving cleaner with each slice. Veggie Boost: Don’t hesitate to add fresh veggies like spinach or zucchini for added nutrients and flavor. Just sauté them with the garlic before adding to the dish. Cheese Quality: Always opt for freshly grated Parmesan and low-moisture mozzarella. It melts better and enhances the casserole’s overall texture and flavor. Meal Prep Friendly: This Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole can be prepared in advance. Just assemble, cover tightly, and refrigerate until baking for an easy weeknight meal. Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole Variations Feel free to let your creativity shine by personalizing this Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs! Vegetarian Delight: Swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers for a flavorful meatless option. This gives you a hearty casserole packed with nutrients and flavor. Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for an exciting heat level that will tingle your taste buds! Creamy Twist: Stir in a bit of cream cheese while mixing the chicken and marinara to achieve a rich, creamy texture. It takes the casserole to a whole new indulgent level. Dairy-Free: Use vegan cheese alternatives and replace the almond flour with chickpea flour, making it a fantastic option for those following a dairy-free diet. Zesty Lemon: Incorporate a splash of lemon juice into the mixture for a refreshing zing that contrasts beautifully with the casserole’s rich flavors. Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh basil and oregano for a vibrant herbaceous finish. This twist adds brightness to the dish that your family will love! Ground Meat Alternative: Substitute rotisserie chicken with ground beef or turkey for a delightful twist on the traditional flavors. It’s a comforting option that will satisfy meat lovers. Noodle Facsimile: For a hearty addition, layer in some spiralized zucchini or spaghetti squash. This not only adds texture but makes it feel like a full pasta dish without the carbs. Explore these fun variations to discover your favorite twist then make sure to serve it up with a fresh side salad or some roasted veggies! And if you’re looking for more comforting options, don’t miss my delightful Smothered Chicken and Rice or quick and tasty Mango Chicken Stir Fry. Happy cooking! What to Serve with Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole? Imagine a cozy family dinner with comforting flavors and delightful textures harmonizing on your table. Garlic Bread: Crunchy and flavorful, garlic bread adds a perfect buttery companion that’s great for soaking up the delicious marinara. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and creamy dressing enhance your meal, providing a refreshing crunch that contrasts well with the casserole’s richness. Zucchini Noodles: These low-carb noodles serve as a delightful, light base and absorb the savory flavors of the casserole beautifully. Roasted Broccoli: This vibrant green side is crispy and nourishing, bringing a satisfying texture to balance the creamy casserole. Grilled Asparagus: Tender and savory, grilled asparagus adds a slight char and earthiness, elevating the overall dining experience. Sparkling Water with Lemon: Refreshing and bubbly, it cleanses the palate as you savor the cheesy and tangy flavors of the dish. Tiramisu: For dessert, this classic Italian treat offers a sweet finish with its coffee-soaked layers, perfect for a comforting meal. Steamed Green Beans: Their bright color and mild flavor offer an ideal counterpoint, and they keep the meal light and enjoyable. Italian Meatballs: For heartier appetites, serve homemade meatballs on the side for a touch of protein, complementing your casserole beautifully. Whatever you choose, these pairings will enhance your Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole experience, making it a beloved family dinner! Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe FAQs How do I choose ripe ingredients for this casserole? Absolutely! For the best flavor, choose ripe, fresh ingredients. When selecting marinara sauce, look for brands with no added sugars and preferred natural ingredients. If making homemade, opt for ripe tomatoes with a rich color. Fresh herbs should be vibrant and aromatic, while garlic cloves should be firm and not sprouted or soft. How should I store leftovers? To keep any leftover Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will ensure you have delicious meals ready to go throughout the week. Should you have leftover portions, they might even become a quick and easy option for busy nights! Can I freeze the casserole? Very much! If you want to freeze the casserole, prepare it up until the baking stage. Cover the dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge, then bake as per the original instructions until bubbly and golden. What if my casserole is too dry? If your Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole turns out a bit dry, don’t worry! This can sometimes happen if it’s overcooked. To combat dryness in future bakes, ensure you’re keeping an eye on the baking time, checking at 25 minutes. You can also add a splash of chicken broth to the mixture or ensure there’s enough marinara sauce coating the chicken when baking to enhance moisture. Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies? It’s important to note that this casserole is not pet-friendly due to ingredients like garlic, which can be toxic to dogs. Additionally, if you’re serving this dish to someone with specific allergies, be cautious with substitutions, particularly ingredients like almonds (in almond flour) or cheese, which can cause reactions. Always double-check ingredient labels if allergies or sensitivities are a concern. Can I make this casserole gluten-free? Absolutely! The Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole is already gluten-free. By using almond flour and no added sugar marinara, it perfectly accommodates gluten-free diets. Just ensure all your ingredients, particularly the marinara sauce and any optional toppings, are labeled gluten-free to keep everything on track! Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole: Comfort Food, Guilt-Free Delight Enjoy a guilt-free Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole with tender chicken, zesty marinara, and a cheesy crust. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsResting Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins Servings: 6 servingsCourse: ChickenCuisine: ItalianCalories: 400 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken Base4 cups Cubed Rotisserie Chicken Cooked and cubed chicken serves as the hearty base of this dish.2 cups Non Added Sugar Marinara Sauce Provides rich tomato flavor and moisture.For the Flavor1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning A blend of herbs that enhances the Italian flavor profile.3 cloves Minced Garlic This key aromatic ingredient elevates the dish’s flavor.For Cooking1 tablespoon Olive Oil Used for sautéing garlic and chicken mixture.For the Sauce2 tablespoons Almond Flour Acts as a thickener in the sauce.For the Cheesy Topping1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Adds a savory, cheesy flavor and forms a crunchy top layer.2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Provides gooey texture and richness.1 cup Finely Crushed Parmesan Crisps or Pork Rinds Creates a crunchy topping on the casserole.For Baking1 spray Non-stick Cooking Spray Prevents sticking to the casserole dish. Equipment Ovenlarge skillet9"x13" Casserole Dish Method Cooking StepsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat until it shimmers. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute.Add the cubed rotisserie chicken, Italian seasoning, marinara sauce, and almond flour to the skillet. Mix well and cook for approximately 5 minutes.Transfer the chicken-marinara mixture into your greased 9"x13" casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese, followed by shredded mozzarella cheese, and finally top with finely crushed parmesan crisps or pork rinds.Place the casserole dish into the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.Allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 30gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg NotesThis Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a versatile dish that can be customized with vegetables or different meats for a unique twist. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
