Keto Chicken Cheese Bake

Keto Chicken Cheese Bake is a delightful dish that combines the richness of cheeses with tender chicken and crispy turkey bacon. This hearty recipe is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep. The blend of flavors and creamy textures makes it a standout choice for those following a ketogenic diet, ensuring you enjoy comfort food without the carbs.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sharp cheddar, Parmesan, and mozzarella creates a rich, cheesy experience.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe is simple enough for any home cook to master.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as an entree or paired with a side salad for a complete meal.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time and reheat for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Family-Friendly: Even non-keto eaters will love this creamy chicken bake!

Tools and Preparation

To create your Keto Chicken Cheese Bake, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to streamline your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Medium saucepan
• Wooden spoon
• Casserole dish (8×12 inch)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for crisping the turkey bacon and sautéing vegetables efficiently.
• Medium saucepan: Perfect for combining and melting the creamy cheese mixture without burning.
• Casserole dish: Ensures even baking while giving a beautiful presentation directly from oven to table.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients needed for your Keto Chicken Cheese Bake:

For the Bake

• 1 pound Turkey Bacon
• 8 ounce package cream cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/3 cup avocado mayonnaise
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ teaspoon hot sauce, we used Cholula
• 1 teaspoon dry mustard
• ½ teaspoon white pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika

Vegetables and Chicken

• 1 store bought cooked rotisserie chicken, meat removed and chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 1 ½ cups red onion, diced
• 8 ounces baby bella mushrooms, sliced
• 1 tablespoon fresh garlic, minced
• 8 ounces baby spinach

Topping

• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded

How to Make Keto Chicken Cheese Bake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. This ensures that your dish bakes evenly.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Bacon

In a large skillet, cook the turkey bacon until crispy. Remove it from the skillet and place it on paper towels. Reserve three tablespoons of turkey bacon fat.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a medium saucepan, add:
1. Cream cheese
2. Parmesan cheese
3. Cheddar cheese
4. Avocado mayonnaise
5. Heavy cream
6. Hot sauce
7. Dry mustard
8. White pepper
9. Garlic powder
10. Onion powder
11. Paprika

Cook over medium heat, stirring with a wooden spoon until creamy.

Step 4: Combine Bacon with Cheese Mixture

Chop the cooked turkey bacon into pieces and fold it into the creamy cheese mixture.

Step 5: Sauté Vegetables

Clean your skillet and add two tablespoons of reserved turkey bacon fat. Sauté diced onions over medium-high heat for about three minutes until softened.

Step 6: Add Mushrooms

Add another tablespoon of turkey bacon fat along with sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Sauté for five minutes until tender.

Step 7: Incorporate Garlic and Spinach

Next, add minced garlic and baby spinach to the skillet. Toss everything together until spinach is wilted, which should take about two minutes.

Step 8: Combine All Ingredients

Pour in the creamy cheese mixture along with cooked chicken pieces into the vegetable mix. Stir gently to combine everything before transferring it to an 8×12 inch casserole dish.

Step 9: Add Mozzarella on Top

Sprinkle two cups of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the casserole.

Step 10: Bake

Place in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes until bubbly.

Step 11: Broil for Finish

For a golden brown top, switch to broil mode for an additional 1–2 minutes.

Step 12: Rest Before Serving

Let sit for ten minutes before serving to allow it to set up nicely.

Enjoy your delicious Keto Chicken Cheese Bake!

How to Serve Keto Chicken Cheese Bake

Keto Chicken Cheese Bake is a delicious, hearty dish perfect for any meal. Here are some great serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy Caesar dressing and Parmesan cheese complements the richness of the bake.
• Spinach Salad: Fresh baby spinach with cherry tomatoes and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast.

Add Low-Carb Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while keeping your meal low in carbs.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These can be roasted with olive oil and garlic for added flavor and crunch.

Serve with Dipping Sauces

• Avocado Dressing: A smooth avocado dressing pairs well, adding creaminess that perfectly matches the bake’s texture.
• Hot Sauce: For spice lovers, a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce can elevate the dish.

How to Perfect Keto Chicken Cheese Bake

To ensure you achieve the best results with your Keto Chicken Cheese Bake, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality cheeses enhance flavor and texture in this dish.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: If using leftover chicken, make sure it’s heated through but not dried out for optimal moisture.
• Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to tweak the spices based on your personal preferences; this dish is versatile!
• Let it Rest: Allowing the bake to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps it set up properly before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Keto Chicken Cheese Bake

Pairing side dishes with Keto Chicken Cheese Bake can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: A creamy alternative to mashed potatoes that’s low in carbs and full of flavor.
2. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed or raw zucchini noodles offer a satisfying yet healthy noodle substitute.
3. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw made with cabbage and a tangy dressing adds freshness and crunch.
4. Grilled Asparagus: Simple grilled asparagus drizzled with olive oil makes for an elegant side.
5. Cucumber Salad: Refreshing cucumbers tossed in vinegar provide a crisp contrast to the cheesy bake.
6. Riced Broccoli: This quick side adds fiber and nutrients while fitting perfectly into the keto lifestyle.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Keto Chicken Cheese Bake, there are a few common errors that can affect your dish. Here are some tips to keep in mind.

• Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold ingredients can lead to uneven cooking. Always let your cream cheese and other dairy sit out for a bit to reach room temperature before mixing.
• Overcooking the turkey bacon: While crispy turkey bacon is great, overcooking it can make it tough. Cook until just crispy, then remove from heat.
• Neglecting seasoning: Skipping on spices or using too few can result in a bland dish. Don’t hesitate to adjust seasonings according to your taste preferences.
• Not sautéing enough: If you skip sautéing the onions, mushrooms, and spinach, they won’t develop their full flavor. Take the time to cook these ingredients properly.
• Wrong baking dish size: Using a dish that’s too small may lead to overflow while baking. Stick with an 8X12 inch casserole dish for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing Keto Chicken Cheese Bake

• Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Keto Chicken Cheese Bake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for 1-2 minutes or until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Keto Chicken Cheese Bake.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to substitute different cheese varieties like gouda or pepper jack for unique flavors.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! The Keto Chicken Cheese Bake stores well, making it perfect for meal prep throughout the week.

How can I customize the vegetables?

You can add or swap any veggies you like, such as bell peppers or zucchini, based on your preference.

What can I serve with Keto Chicken Cheese Bake?

This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

The Keto Chicken Cheese Bake is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables and cheeses. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep, ensuring a satisfying and hearty meal every time. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its creamy goodness!