Keto Chicken Divan Casserole: Easy Creamy Comfort Food

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Keto Chicken Divan Casserole: Easy Creamy Comfort Food

There’s nothing quite like coming home after a long day and knowing you have the ingredients for a comforting, creamy Keto Chicken Divan Casserole ready to go. This low-carb twist on a classic family favorite combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich, cheesy sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. The aroma of herbs and cheese bubbling in the oven creates an irresistible invitation to dinner, while the velvety texture and savory flavors satisfy even the most discerning palates. What makes this Keto Chicken Divan Casserole truly special is how it transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy dish without the carbs or complicated techniques. Whether you’re new to keto cooking or a seasoned pro looking for your next family hit, this easy low carb chicken divan casserole recipe delivers impressive results every time.

Why You’ll Love This Keto Chicken Divan Casserole

Ingredients for Keto Chicken Divan Casserole

To make this cheesy chicken divan casserole keto style, you’ll need:

  • 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 pounds frozen broccoli florets (thawed and drained)
  • 3 pounds shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 12 cups)
  • 2 cups mayonnaise (full-fat, no sugar added)
  • 1 cup chopped onion
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Ingredient Substitutions:

  • For a lighter version, substitute half the mayonnaise with sour cream
  • Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker healthy chicken divan casserole low carb option
  • Fresh broccoli works perfectly if you prefer it over frozen
  • Any melting cheese can substitute for cheddar (Monterey Jack, Colby, or Gruyere work well)
  • Add 1 tablespoon of ranch seasoning for extra flavor kick

How to Make Keto Chicken Divan Casserole – Step by Step

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
  3. Place chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  4. Let the chicken cool slightly, then cut or shred into bite-sized pieces.
  5. Reduce oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) for the casserole.
  6. In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, 2 cups of the shredded cheese, chopped onion, garlic powder, paprika, Dijon mustard (if using), salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using).
  7. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
  8. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed – this is your creamy base for the perfect chicken divan casserole for keto diet.
  9. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish.
  10. Spread the thawed and well-drained broccoli evenly across the bottom of the dish.
  11. Layer the cooked, shredded chicken over the broccoli.
  12. Spread the creamy cheese sauce mixture evenly over the chicken layer.
  13. Top with the remaining shredded cheese, creating a generous cheese crust.
  14. Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil.
  15. Bake for 25 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
  16. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
  17. Let the Keto Chicken Divan Casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
Keto Chicken Divan Casserole: Easy Creamy Comfort Food
Keto Chicken Divan Casserole: Easy Creamy Comfort Food

Pro Tips for Making the Best Keto Chicken Divan Casserole

  • Thoroughly drain your broccoli: Excess moisture can make your casserole watery, so thaw frozen broccoli completely and pat dry with paper towels.
  • Don’t overcook the chicken: Since it will continue cooking in the casserole, slightly undercook your chicken during the initial baking for the juiciest results.
  • Use room temperature mayonnaise: This makes it much easier to mix with other ingredients for a smooth, creamy sauce.
  • Create texture layers: For an interesting texture contrast in your keto friendly chicken divan dish, leave some chicken pieces larger and some smaller.
  • Broil for the finish: For an extra golden, crispy top, broil for the final 2-3 minutes of cooking time (watch carefully to avoid burning).
  • Let it rest: Allowing your Keto Chicken Divan Casserole to rest for at least 10 minutes helps the flavors meld and makes serving cleaner and easier.

Best Ways to Serve Keto Chicken Divan Casserole

This creamy chicken divan casserole keto recipe is hearty enough to stand on its own, but here are some delicious serving suggestions:

Nutritional Information for Keto Chicken Divan Casserole

This healthy low carb chicken casserole meal is packed with nutrition while keeping carbs in check!

Per Serving (1/8 of recipe):

  • Calories: 685 kcal
  • Protein: 48g
  • Fat: 52g
  • Net Carbs: 4g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Total Carbs: 6g
  • Sodium: 875mg
  • Potassium: 620mg
  • Calcium: 25% DV
  • Vitamin C: 60% DV

Storage & Leftovers

Your Keto Chicken Divan Casserole makes excellent leftovers that often taste even better the next day as flavors continue to develop!

  • Refrigeration: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freezing: This casserole freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Cut into individual portions before freezing for easy reheating.
  • Reheating: For best results, reheat in a 325°F oven covered with foil until heated through (about 15-20 minutes). Microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  • Make ahead: You can assemble this easy keto chicken divan dinner up to 24 hours in advance and store in the refrigerator before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Keto Chicken Divan Casserole made of?

Keto Chicken Divan Casserole is made with cooked chicken, broccoli, and a creamy sauce containing mayonnaise, cheese, and seasonings. It’s a low-carb adaptation of the classic chicken divan that removes flour and other high-carb ingredients while maintaining the rich, satisfying flavor profile.

How many carbs are in Keto Chicken Divan Casserole?

This recipe contains only 4g of net carbs per serving. The low carb count comes from using broccoli as the vegetable base and avoiding flour-based thickeners in the sauce, making it perfect for those following a ketogenic diet.

Can I make recipe ahead of time?

Yes! This recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours before baking and store it covered in the refrigerator. You can also freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months – just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

What can I substitute for broccoli in recipe?

While broccoli is traditional in any recipe, you can substitute cauliflower, asparagus, or spinach if preferred. Each vegetable will alter the flavor profile slightly but will maintain the low-carb integrity of the dish. If using spinach, make sure to cook and drain it thoroughly first to remove excess moisture.

Conclusion

This recipe proves that comfort food can be both delicious and keto-friendly. With its rich, creamy texture, satisfying protein, and nutrient-packed ingredients, it’s no wonder this dish has become a staple in low-carb households everywhere. The beautiful combination of tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a decadent cheesy sauce creates a meal that’s equally suitable for family dinners or entertaining guests.

Whether you’re strictly following a ketogenic lifestyle or simply looking for a healthier version of a classic comfort food, this gluten free recipe delivers on all fronts. The best part? It’s easy enough for beginners but impressive enough for seasoned home cooks.

Have you tried this recipe? Let us know in the comments how it turned out, or if you put your own special spin on it! And don’t forget to share this recipe with your fellow low-carb enthusiasts who are looking for their next favorite healthy low carb chicken casserole meal.

Happy cooking, and enjoy your delicious Keto Chicken Divan Casserole!

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Keto Chicken Divan Casserole: Easy Creamy Comfort Food

Keto Chicken Divan Casserole: Easy Creamy Comfort Food


  • Author: Isabella Baute
  • Total Time: 75 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Keto Chicken Divan Casserole combines tender chicken, broccoli, and a rich, cheesy sauce for a comforting, low-carb meal perfect for family dinners.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 pounds frozen broccoli florets (thawed and drained)
  • 3 pounds shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 12 cups)
  • 2 cups mayonnaise (full-fat, no sugar added)
  • 1 cup chopped onion
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
  3. Place chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  4. Let the chicken cool slightly, then cut or shred into bite-sized pieces.
  5. Reduce oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) for the casserole.
  6. In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, 2 cups of the shredded cheese, chopped onion, garlic powder, paprika, Dijon mustard (if using), salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using).
  7. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
  8. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish.
  9. Spread the thawed and well-drained broccoli evenly across the bottom of the dish.
  10. Layer the cooked, shredded chicken over the broccoli.
  11. Spread the creamy cheese sauce mixture evenly over the chicken layer.
  12. Top with the remaining shredded cheese, creating a generous cheese crust.
  13. Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil.
  14. Bake for 25 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
  15. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
  16. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.

Notes

  • Thoroughly drain your broccoli to prevent a watery casserole.
  • Use room temperature mayonnaise for easier mixing.
  • Consider substituting half the mayonnaise with sour cream for a lighter version.
  • Reheat leftovers in a 325°F oven covered with foil for best results.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/8 of recipe
  • Calories: 685
  • Sugar: 0
  • Sodium: 875
  • Fat: 52
  • Saturated Fat: N/A
  • Unsaturated Fat: N/A
  • Trans Fat: N/A
  • Carbohydrates: 6
  • Fiber: 2
  • Protein: 48
  • Cholesterol: N/A

Keywords: keto chicken divan casserole, low carb chicken casserole, keto dinner, gluten free chicken dish

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