Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole

There was a chilly Tuesday evening last fall when I came home tired, hungry, and in desperate need of something comforting that didn’t involve ordering takeout. That’s when I stumbled on this idea—a Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole. I pulled together some leftover rotisserie chicken, cream cheese, and a bottle of sugar-free BBQ sauce, and thirty minutes later, dinner was done. It became an instant favorite.

This recipe checks all the boxes for beginner cooks. It’s simple, efficient, and can be prepped in minutes. Plus, it’s high in protein, low in carbs, and satisfies those cravings for something smoky, cheesy, and warm—without compromising your health goals. Whether you’re easing into a keto lifestyle or just want a quick and healthy meal, this easy sheet pan dinner alternative is here to save your evening.

Why This Recipe is Special

This dish stands out because it’s the kind of recipe that feels indulgent without the guilt. It’s a creamy, cheesy casserole layered with savory chicken, crispy bacon, and tangy BBQ sauce—all baked together in one pan. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep Sundays, or whenever you’re trying to clear out your fridge. Best of all, you don’t need to be an experienced cook to nail this dish on the first try.

Ingredients and Preparation

Cooked Chicken Breast or Thighs
Chicken forms the heart of this recipe. It provides lean protein and holds up well during baking. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or poach some boneless skinless chicken if you prefer something homemade. Both breasts and thighs work—thighs add extra richness, while breasts are leaner.

Sugar-Free BBQ Sauce
This is the flavor driver of the dish. A good sugar-free BBQ sauce adds smokiness, a little tang, and a slightly sweet undertone. If you’re watching your carbs, opt for varieties like G Hughes or make your own.

Cream Cheese
Acts as the creamy binder that melds all the ingredients together. It also gives the casserole a luscious texture and rich mouthfeel.

Ranch Seasoning Mix
Adds a herby, savory depth to the casserole. If you want to avoid store-bought mixes, consider a homemade blend of dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and parsley.

Cooked Bacon
Bacon adds crunch and a savory punch. It contrasts beautifully with the creamy base and adds a smoky note that elevates the BBQ flavor.

Cheddar and Monterey Jack Cheese
These cheeses melt beautifully, adding a stretchy, golden crust and gooey interior. They’re essential for both flavor and that irresistible cheesy pull.

Green Onions (optional)
These are mainly for garnish, offering a fresh bite that cuts through the richness of the dish.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions
Out of chicken? Turkey works well too. Prefer a tangier kick? Add a splash of apple cider vinegar to the BBQ mix. For a dairy-free version, opt for a plant-based cream cheese and cheese blend.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sugar-free BBQ sauce, ranch seasoning, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix until smooth and fully blended. This will serve as the creamy base of your casserole.

Step 2
Fold in your pre-cooked chicken and chopped bacon. Add half of the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. Stir until every piece of chicken is generously coated in the sauce.

Step 3
Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish. Use a spatula to smooth it out evenly so that it bakes uniformly.

Step 4
Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top. If you like your casserole extra savory, you can also scatter some extra bacon bits here.

Step 5
Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for another 6–8 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and slightly golden.

Step 6
If you want a crispy top layer, switch the oven to broil for 1–2 minutes at the end. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.

Beginner Tips and Notes

• Chicken Safety: Always ensure your chicken is cooked through before adding it to the casserole. If you’re unsure, cut into the thickest piece—if it’s white with clear juices, it’s ready.
• Cheese Matters: Shred your own cheese if possible. Pre-shredded versions often contain anti-caking agents that don’t melt as well.
• BBQ Sauce Adjustments: If your BBQ sauce is very thick, thin it slightly with a splash of water or broth before mixing. This helps everything combine more easily.
• Veggie Add-ins: Want to bulk it up? Stir in some lightly steamed broccoli, riced cauliflower, or spinach before baking.
• Kitchen Hack: Use kitchen shears to chop bacon—it’s faster and less messy than using a knife.

Serving Suggestions

This keto BBQ chicken casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp keto coleslaw or roasted green beans. For added freshness, serve it with a side salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette. Want to make it heartier? Try serving it alongside mashed cauliflower or keto cornbread.

For leftovers, store the casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through. If using a microwave, remove foil and heat in 30-second bursts.

Conclusion

Whether you’re new to the kitchen or just looking for a go-to recipe that’s quick, comforting, and low-carb, this keto BBQ chicken casserole is your answer. It’s a feel-good, flavor-packed meal you can make with minimal effort and maximum payoff. If you give it a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out—share your tips, swaps, or success stories in the comments below. Happy cooking!

FAQ About Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole

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