Name: Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole: A Comforting Weeknight Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 3 cups Cooked Chicken Breast (Use pre-cooked chicken to save time.); 1 cup Sugar-Free Marinara Sauce (Rao's Homemade is recommended.); 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (For a gooey texture.); 0.5 cups Grated Parmesan Cheese; 1 cup Crushed Pork Rinds (For a crunchy topping.); 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil (For greasing and drizzling.); 2 cloves Garlic (minced); 2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning; 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder; 0.5 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (Adjust to taste.); 0.25 cups Fresh Basil (chopped) (For topping before serving.)

Caught in the whirlwind of a busy week, I found myself searching for a comforting dish that wouldn’t derail my healthy eating goals. Enter the Easy Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole—a delightful fusion of classic Italian flavors with a low-carb twist, ready to save the day. This dish is not only a quick meal but also a crowd-pleaser that guarantees to satisfy everyone at the table, even the pickiest of eaters. With layers of juicy chicken, rich marinara, and melty cheese, this recipe delivers all the comforting vibes of traditional chicken parmesan without the extra carbs. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep or a cozy weeknight dinner! Curious about how to whip up this deliciously cheesy casserole? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is this casserole a must-try?

Simplicity, The Easy Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole is not only quick to prepare but also requires minimal ingredients, making it ideal for busy nights. Rich, cheesy goodness awaits in every bite, with layers of melty mozzarella and savory parmesan elevating your dining experience. Low-carb delight, you can indulge guilt-free, as this dish fits perfectly into your keto lifestyle. Meal prep friendly, assemble it ahead of time and just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat. Crowd-pleaser vibes are guaranteed, as even your pickiest eaters will be asking for seconds! Try serving it alongside a fresh salad or over zucchini noodles for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole Ingredients

For the Casserole

Cooked Chicken Breast – Use pre-cooked chicken to save time and ensure a juicy base for your casserole.
Sugar-Free Marinara Sauce – This low-carb option keeps the dish flavorful and moist; Rao’s Homemade is highly recommended.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Offers a deliciously gooey texture, making every bite comfortingly rich.
Grated Parmesan Cheese – Provides an extra savory layer that beautifully complements the casserole flavors.
Crushed Pork Rinds – Acts as a keto-friendly crunchy topping, replacing traditional breadcrumbs for satisfying texture.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Gives a light greasing that helps achieve a golden brown topping while adding healthy fats.

For the Flavor

Garlic (minced) – Infuses the chicken mixture with aromatic depth and savory goodness.
Italian Seasoning – A robust blend of herbs that transports your taste buds to Italy with every forkful.
Garlic Powder – Enhances the garlic flavor without the texture of fresh garlic—perfect for a smooth mix.
Red Pepper Flakes – Adds a delightful kick; adjust to your taste for the perfect level of heat.

For Garnish

Fresh Basil (chopped) – Provides a burst of freshness and a pop of color to your dish—don’t skip this!

This Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole is not only delicious but also an easy solution for satisfying weeknight dinners.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, take a 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it generously with extra virgin olive oil to ensure a non-stick surface. This will help create that beautiful golden brown topping as the casserole bakes.

Step 2: Mix the Chicken Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken breast, 1 cup of sugar-free marinara sauce, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Stir thoroughly until each piece of chicken is evenly coated with the flavorful mixture. This rich blend sets the foundation for your Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole.

Step 3: Spread the Chicken Mixture
Transfer the chicken mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Use the back of a spoon or spatula to press the mixture down slightly, ensuring it lies flat. This even layer will absorb the sauce’s flavors while baking, making each bite absolutely delicious.

Step 4: Add More Marinara
Take the remaining marinara sauce and drizzle it over the top of the chicken mixture in thin, even streaks. This will enhance the moisture and flavor profile of the casserole, giving it that authentic chicken parmesan taste that your family will adore.

Step 5: Cheese It Up
Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the marinara-adorned chicken. Make sure to cover the entire surface so that every bite of your Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole is packed with gooey, melty goodness.

Step 6: Prepare the Crunchy Topping
In a separate bowl, mix crushed pork rinds, grated parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes together until well combined. Sprinkle this crunchy topping evenly over the mozzarella layer, ensuring a delightful contrast in texture once baked.

Step 7: Drizzle with Olive Oil
To encourage browning and a crispy texture, lightly drizzle some extra virgin olive oil over the topping. This not only helps the casserole achieve a beautiful golden hue but also adds a subtle richness that ties all the ingredients together wonderfully.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbly, and the topping turns a lovely golden brown. The aroma will fill your kitchen, promising a satisfying dinner ahead.

Step 9: Let Rest and Garnish
Once out of the oven, let your Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the layers settle before cutting. Just before serving, garnish with freshly chopped basil for a vibrant pop of color and a hint of freshness to balance the richness of the dish.

Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole Variations

Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine by customizing this dish with delightful twists and swaps!

Dairy-Free: Substitute dairy cheese with a nut-based cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Vegetarian: Swap the chicken for hearty vegetables like roasted zucchini or eggplant, which absorb the rich marinara beautifully.
Add Protein: Try ground turkey or Italian sausage instead of chicken for a flavorful twist. This adds an earthy depth that elevates the entire dish.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or extra red pepper flakes for those who crave a bit of heat in their casserole.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or oregano instead of or alongside Italian seasoning to create a garden-fresh flavor contrast.

Transform your casserole into a delightful dish by adding a layer of sautéed spinach or kale for extra nutrients and vibrant color! This not only enhances the flavor but also brings a wholesome aspect to your meal.

Crunchy Topping: Replace crushed pork rinds with crushed almonds or walnuts for those who prefer a different texture. This swap adds a nutty crunch that makes each bite exciting!

If you’re looking for more delicious chicken options, why not check out Parmesan Crockpot Chicken or Chicken Stuffing Casserole? These recipes offer wonderful flavors that keep family meals fresh and exciting!

Storage Tips for Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This keeps the flavors intact while allowing you to savor the creamy goodness another day.

Freezer: If you want to make this dish last longer, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, let thaw in the fridge overnight.

Reheating: For the best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This helps maintain the crispy topping of your Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole.

Covering: Always cover your casserole tightly when storing to prevent it from drying out or absorbing odors from the fridge.

Helpful Tricks for Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Pre-Cooked Chicken: Use shredded or cubed pre-cooked chicken to save time and ensure juicy, flavorful layers in your Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole.
Avoid Sogginess: Add the crushed pork rinds as a topping right before baking to keep the texture crispy and prevent it from becoming soggy.
Layering It Right: Spread the chicken mixture evenly and drizzle marinara in streaks to ensure each bite is perfectly flavored, making every forkful rewarding.
Browning Bliss: Drizzle olive oil on top before baking for a beautifully golden brown crust that enhances both flavor and presentation.
Meal Prep Magic: Assemble the casserole a day in advance but skip the cheese and pork rinds until baking for freshness and crunch!
Reheat Smartly: When enjoying leftovers, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to maintain that signature crispiness of the topping.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the chicken mixture and layer it in the baking dish up to 24 hours ahead. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate, which helps the flavors meld beautifully. Hold off on adding the cheese and pork rinds until you’re ready to bake, as this will keep the topping crispy. When it’s time to enjoy, just sprinkle on the cheese, add the crunchy topping, and pop it in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes. You’ll have a delicious, comforting dish that feels fresh and just as satisfying as if you made it from scratch!

What to Serve with Easy Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole

A warm and comforting meal is just the beginning; let’s elevate your dining experience with delicious pairings!

Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: This velvety side dish brings a rich, buttery contrast that complements the casserole’s cheesy texture.
Zucchini Noodles: Light and fresh, these noodles act as a wonderful low-carb base that soaks up the casserole’s flavors beautifully. Toss with a drizzle of olive oil for added richness.
Simple Arugula Salad: The peppery notes of arugula paired with a squeeze of lemon brighten the meal, balancing the richness of the casserole perfectly.
Roasted Asparagus: Tender, crisp-tipped asparagus adds a delightful crunch and a hint of earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory chicken dish.
Cauliflower Rice: A light and fluffy side that captures the spirit of traditional rice without the carbs—perfect for soaking up that delicious marinara sauce.
Garlic Breadsticks: Indulge a little! These can be made keto-friendly using almond flour, offering a comforting crunch to enjoy with every cheesy bite.
Sparkling Water with Lemon: A refreshing drink that adds a sparkling touch, making it a bubbly accompaniment to your casserole feast. Enjoy it chilled for the best experience!

Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the chicken for this casserole?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using cooked chicken breast—either rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken you have on hand. This saves time and guarantees juicy, flavorful layers in your Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole. Be sure to shred or cube it for even mixing.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
You’ll want to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, where they will stay fresh for up to 4 days. This keeps all the flavors intact, allowing you to enjoy the creamy goodness again. Make sure to cover it well to prevent it from drying out!

Can I freeze this dish, and how?
Yes, you can freeze the Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole! Simply portion it into airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, just let the casserole thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake it at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to bring back that crispy topping.

What should I do if the topping is soggy?
To prevent sogginess, add the crushed pork rinds as the topping right before baking, ensuring it retains its delightful crunch. If you find that it’s already soggy, you can try placing the casserole back in the oven uncovered for a few more minutes to crisp it up again.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Great question! This dish is keto-friendly, but if you or someone you’re serving has specific dietary needs—like allergies to dairy or gluten—consider using dairy-free cheese or gluten-free pork rinds as alternatives. Always read labels to ensure they meet your dietary preferences.

What can I serve with the casserole to make it a complete meal?
Serving suggestions are the key! Pair your Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole with a fresh side salad for a burst of freshness, or over zucchini noodles for a wholesome, complete meal. It’s versatile, so the more, the merrier!