Name: Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 4 cups cooked chicken (shredded); 2 cups marinara sauce (sugar-free); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup pork rind crumbs (or almond flour); 2 tablespoons olive oil; Fresh basil for garnish

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If there’s one family favorite that always brings rave reviews and empty plates, it’s this Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole. With its bubbling cheese, layers of tender chicken, and savory low-carb marinara, this casserole captures all the heartiness and comfort of a classic chicken Parmesan while keeping carbs to a minimum. Every forkful hits that perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and satisfyingly saucy—delivered right from your oven, in just 45 minutes. This recipe proves delicious things happen when Italian traditions meet keto-friendly ingenuity!

Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole lies in the thoughtful combination of easy-to-find ingredients. Each component brings its own personality: flavor, texture, or that irresistible cheesy stretch. Here’s what you’ll gather for your kitchen adventure:

Cooked Chicken (4 cups, shredded): Shredded rotisserie or leftover chicken saves time and delivers juicy bites in every layer.
Sugar-Free Marinara Sauce (2 cups): Choose a low-carb, no-sugar-added marinara to keep things keto and bursting with tomato flavor.
Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon): A ready-made blend that brings an instant hit of Mediterranean herby goodness.
Garlic Powder (1/2 teaspoon): Adds that warm, aromatic kick that makes any Italian-inspired dish come alive.
Onion Powder (1/2 teaspoon): Lends subtle sweetness and depth without any chopping required.
Red Pepper Flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For a little heat and zing; skip or adjust to your spice preference.
Ricotta Cheese (1 cup): Creamy dollops melt into soft, luscious pockets throughout the casserole.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (2 cups): The secret behind those epic cheese pulls and gooey topping everyone loves.
Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup): Adds salty, nutty richness that deepens the overall flavor.
Pork Rind Crumbs or Almond Flour (1/2 cup): These keep the topping crispy and keto, with a choice of savory crunch or nutty toastiness.
Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Helps turn your topping perfectly golden and locks in flavor.
Fresh Basil (for garnish): Finishes each serving with a burst of color and classic Italian aroma.

How to Make Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a bit of olive oil or nonstick spray, so your Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole slides out easily when it’s hot and bubbly later.

Step 2: Lay Down the Chicken Base

Spread the shredded chicken evenly across the bottom of your prepared dish. This creates a sturdy base that holds up beautifully under all those cheesy, saucy layers. If you’re using rotisserie chicken, just shred it with your fingers for extra ease and flavor.

Step 3: Mix and Pour the Marinara Sauce

In a medium bowl, stir together your sugar-free marinara with the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and (if you crave a subtle heat) red pepper flakes. Once combined, pour this seasoned sauce evenly over the chicken, ensuring every bite gets its share of zesty tomato flavor.

Step 4: Spoon on the Ricotta

Drop spoonfuls of creamy ricotta all over the saucy chicken layer. Don’t fuss about spreading it perfectly; those soft pockets of ricotta are meant to melt in place and create little bursts of indulgence in every serving.

Step 5: Pile on the Cheese Layers

Generously sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the ricotta. This duo creates a beautiful, molten top that browns gorgeously in the oven and brings classic Chicken Parmesan flavor to every forkful.

Step 6: Top with Pork Rind Crumbs and Olive Oil

In a small bowl, combine your pork rind crumbs (or almond flour, for a nutty twist) with two tablespoons of olive oil. Stir until well coated—this helps the topping crisp up and develop golden color. Sprinkle this mixture over the casserole so every bite has a little crunchy surprise.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place your casserole uncovered in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’re aiming for cheese that’s bubbling and lightly browned on the edges, with a crispy, golden topping. Let it rest for at least 5 minutes after baking—this makes serving neat portions a breeze.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Right before serving, scatter freshly torn basil leaves over the top. Their bright green color and fresh aroma give Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole a restaurant-worthy finish.

How to Serve Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Garnishes

Nothing says “I made this with love” quite like a generous shower of fresh basil or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top. A drizzle of good olive oil or a dusting of cracked black pepper can elevate the presentation and flavor of your Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole even more. Play around with microgreens or finely chopped parsley for a flash of color and freshness with every slice.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs beautifully with simple, keto-friendly sides. Think sautéed greens (like spinach, kale, or broccolini), a fresh Caesar salad, or zucchini noodles tossed in garlic and olive oil. If you’d like a heartier meal, serve Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole alongside roasted cauliflower or a simple marinated tomato salad.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party or cozy gathering, try serving individual portions in mini casserole dishes or ramekins. For a fun weeknight twist, scoop leftover Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole into lettuce cups or stuff into hollowed-out roasted peppers. The flavors are versatile and always crowd-pleasing, no matter how you serve it up!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole tightly covered in the refrigerator. It keeps its flavor and texture for up to 3 days, making it a delightful make-ahead lunch or quick dinner option. The cheese stays gooey and the flavors deepen overnight, so don’t be surprised if it’s even better the next day!

Freezing

This casserole is a freezer’s best friend! Simply cool the baked dish completely, wrap well, and freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, portion individual slices or freeze the whole dish tightly wrapped. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating so the cheese and sauce don’t separate.

Reheating

To reheat, place your portion in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, for about 15 minutes or until piping hot. If you’re short on time, you can use the microwave, but the oven preserves the crispy topping and keeps the cheese bubbly. Add a sprinkle of extra mozzarella or Parmesan (if desired) right before popping it back in—no one will ever guess it’s leftovers!

FAQs

Can I make Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready, bake as directed—just add a couple of extra minutes if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

What can I use instead of pork rind crumbs?

If you don’t have pork rinds or prefer a different texture, almond flour is a fantastic keto alternative. It toasts beautifully and adds a hint of nuttiness—perfect for the golden topping of Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole.

Is this casserole gluten-free?

Yes, Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole is naturally gluten-free, as it uses pork rind crumbs or almond flour instead of traditional breadcrumbs. Just double-check your marinara sauce and seasoning blends for hidden gluten if you’re particularly sensitive.

Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Definitely! For added flavor and nutrients, try layering sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or even zucchini slices between the chicken and sauce. Just be sure to cook off any excess moisture before adding them to keep your casserole from getting soggy.

How spicy is this dish?

The red pepper flakes add a subtle heat, but they’re completely optional. Leave them out or add more, based on your spice preference. Either way, the flavors of Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole will still shine!

Final Thoughts

Give this Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole a spot at your dinner table, and it just might become a new staple for cozy weeknights or company-worthy gatherings. With its melty cheese, savory sauce, and easy prep, it offers that classic comfort—without the carbs. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love all over again with this heartwarming dish!

Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe

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4.7 from 25 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in a delicious low-carb twist on a classic favorite with this Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole. Layers of tender shredded chicken, zesty marinara sauce, creamy cheeses, and a crispy topping come together to create a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners or entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Casserole:

4 cups cooked chicken (shredded)
2 cups marinara sauce (sugar-free)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 cup ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Topping:

1/2 cup pork rind crumbs (or almond flour)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh basil for garnish

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Layer the Casserole: Spread the shredded chicken in the dish. Mix marinara sauce with seasonings and pour over the chicken. Add dollops of ricotta cheese, then sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan.
Add the Topping: Toss pork rind crumbs with olive oil, then sprinkle over the casserole.
Bake: Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly and topping is golden.
Serve: Let rest for 5 minutes, garnish with basil, and serve.