Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole

If you are craving comfort food but sticking to your keto plan this chicken parmesan casserole delivers everything you want. Tender chicken smothered in savory marinara and gooey cheese with a crunchy golden topping makes it a weeknight winner that feels a little bit special for guests or family. I love how speedy this is for busy nights especially when the craving hits but you want to avoid carb-heavy pasta or breaded chicken.

Essentials Ingredients

• Cubed rotisserie chicken or chicken breast: holds shape and soaks up flavor choose freshly cooked juicy pieces for best texture

• No added sugar marinara sauce: adds tang and deep tomato flavor look for jarred brands with no hidden sugars or make your own for full keto control

• Italian seasoning: brings herby depth use dried for convenience or double up with fresh basil if in season

• Garlic cloves: add bold aroma choose fresh and finely mince for best infusion

• Olive oil: helps meld flavors and keeps the dish moist extra virgin preferred for robust taste

• Almond flour: gives mild nutty thickening and keeps it gluten free choose finely ground for the smoothest mix

• Parmesan cheese: goes in the filling and topping always opt for freshly grated for unbeatable flavor

• Shredded mozzarella cheese: makes that signature melt look for full-fat for best keto macros

• Finely crushed parmesan crisps or pork rinds: create the crunchy crust pork rinds deliver extra savory kick while parmesan crisps are nutty and cheesy

• Non-stick cooking spray: keeps cleanup easy and every cheesy edge perfectly intact

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat Oven:

Set the oven to 350 F and let it fully heat up so your casserole bakes evenly and the cheese melts flawlessly throughout

Sauté Garlic and Seasonings:

Pour olive oil into a large skillet over medium heat add minced garlic cook for about one minute until just fragrant but not brown then stir in Italian seasoning for even flavor distribution

Mix Chicken and Sauce:

Add marinara sauce almond flour and cubed chicken to the skillet and gently stir everything to coat make sure the pieces are evenly covered and heat for five minutes to meld flavors and slightly thicken

Assemble in Baking Dish:

Spray a nine by thirteen inch casserole dish with non-stick spray pour the chicken marinara mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly pressing down gently for a smooth layer

Layer Cheeses and Crunch:

Sprinkle a thick layer of parmesan cheese over the surface then an even layer of shredded mozzarella finally top with a generous sprinkle of crushed parmesan crisps or pork rinds for irresistible texture

Bake:

Slide the dish into your preheated oven bake for twenty five to thirty minutes keep an eye on it in the final minutes you want fully melted bubbly cheese and a slightly crisp golden topping

Cool and Serve:

When finished remove casserole from the oven let it rest for at least five minutes so the layers settle and cheese firms a bit for perfect slices scoop and enjoy piping hot

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Every time I make this for friends who are skeptical of keto I win them over and I always sneak extra parmesan into the filling for that intense nutty flavor that reminds me of Sunday family parties

Storage Tips

Let leftovers cool slightly before covering and refrigerating for up to four days For best results use a glass dish with a lid You can also portion servings into airtight containers for meal prep This casserole freezes well just wrap tightly and freeze for up to two months Thaw overnight in the fridge then reheat in the oven until hot and bubbly Avoid microwaving to keep the topping crispy

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use any cooked chicken including poached roasted or even leftover grilled thighs Pork rinds and parmesan crisps are both great for crunch but if you do not have them crushed almonds or even extra cheese make a fine substitute For dairy free try a plant based mozzarella and nutritional yeast instead of parmesan

Serving Suggestions

Serve straight from the oven with a side green salad or steamed green beans for easy balance If you like extra richness drizzle with more olive oil or a dollop of basil pesto For gatherings I set out little bowls of extra parmesan fresh basil or crushed red pepper so everyone can top their own piece

Cultural Context

Chicken parmesan started as an Italian American classic with breaded fried cutlets covered in sauce and cheese This version reimagines it for low carb diets while keeping the spirit of family comfort food alive It is simple at heart and totally customizable I find it is especially great for feeding a crowd without fuss

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of chicken works best?

Rotisserie chicken adds extra flavor and convenience, but cooked chicken breast works well for a leaner option.

→ Can I substitute the almond flour?

Yes, you can use coconut flour or omit it for a saucier texture. Almond flour helps thicken the sauce slightly.

→ What can I use instead of parmesan crisps?

Finely crushed pork rinds offer a keto-friendly crunch if parmesan crisps aren’t available.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Cool the casserole completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

→ Can I prepare the casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve for best results.