This Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole is a flavor-packed, low-carb dream that’s as easy as it is delicious. Juicy chicken, smoky BBQ sauce, and melty cheese come together in just 10 minutes of prep, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The golden, bubbly topping and tender, saucy filling create a mouthwatering contrast of textures you’ll crave bite after bite.
In 30 minutes, you’ll have a hearty, satisfying dish that’s rich in savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors. It’s comfort food without the guilt, ideal for anyone embracing a keto lifestyle or simply seeking a wholesome, crowd-pleasing meal. Serve it fresh from the oven and watch it disappear in no time!
What You’ll Need for Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened to room temperature for easier mixing)
- 1 cup sugar-free BBQ sauce (choose your favorite brand or make your own)
- 2 tablespoons ranch dressing seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- 2 pounds cooked boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs (cubed or shredded; rotisserie chicken works great for a shortcut!)
- 8 slices cooked bacon (chopped; turkey bacon is a lighter option)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar adds more flavor)
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or substitute with pepper jack for a spicy kick)
- Green onions (for garnish; optional but adds a fresh touch)
How to Make Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready when you are.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sugar-free BBQ sauce, ranch seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Gently fold in the cooked chicken, chopped bacon, and ½ cup each of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheddar and ½ cup Monterey Jack cheeses on top.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 6-8 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
- Once out of the oven, garnish with a drizzle of BBQ sauce and chopped green onions for a fresh finish.
- Serve warm and enjoy your delicious, keto-friendly casserole!
Perfect Pairings: Sauce and Topping Ideas
While this casserole is already packed with flavor, you can elevate it further with extra toppings! Try adding a dollop of sour cream or guacamole for a creamy contrast. For a tangy twist, drizzle with sugar-free ranch dressing or sprinkle with pickled jalapeños. If you’re a fan of heat, a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes will do the trick!
Make It a Meal: Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole pairs beautifully with simple sides. Serve it over a bed of cauliflower rice or alongside a crisp green salad for a balanced meal. For a low-carb crunch, add zucchini fries or roasted Brussels sprouts. Don’t forget to garnish with extra green onions for a fresh finish!
Leftovers Made Easy: Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or warm in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until heated through. For a crispy top, broil for the last 1-2 minutes. Pro tip: Add a splash of water or extra BBQ sauce before reheating to keep it moist.
Mix It Up: Recipe Variations
Customize this casserole to suit your taste! Swap the chicken for shredded pork or ground beef for a different protein. If you’re dairy-free, use dairy-free cream cheese and cheese alternatives. For a veggie-packed version, stir in sautéed spinach or roasted cauliflower. The possibilities are endless!
Quick Prep Hacks: Time-Saving Tips
Short on time? Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken and pre-cooked bacon to cut down on prep. You can also mix the cream cheese, BBQ sauce, and seasonings in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble. Bonus tip: Double the recipe and freeze one casserole for a future meal—just thaw and bake when needed!
Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- 1 cup Sugar-free BBQ Sauce
- 2 tablespoons ranch dressing seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- 2 pounds cooked boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs cubed or shredded
- 8 slices cooked bacon chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup Monterey jack cheese
- Green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, BBQ, ranch, salt, and pepper, mixing well. Fold in chicken, bacon, and ½ cup each cheddar and jack cheeses.
- Spread the mixture in a casserole dish, top with the rest of the cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for 6-8 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Garnish with a drizzle of BBQ and green onion and serve.