Recipe

BBQ Chicken Casserole

Updated on 4 min read
image 177 Recipe

Quick Description

This BBQ Chicken Casserole is a cheesy, savory dish featuring tender chicken, smoky BBQ sauce, crumbled bacon, and melted Monterey Jack and sharp cheddar cheese. It’s a delicious low-carb dinner or meal prep option.

Servings & Timing

  • Servings: 4
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 hours (slow cooker) or 30 minutes (oven)
  • Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes (slow cooker method) or 30 minutes (oven method)

Ingredients List

  • 1 ¼ lb boneless skinless chicken breast
  • 1 1/8 cup sugar-free BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • ½ teaspoon garlic seasoning
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, grated
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
  • 6 pieces bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • ¾ teaspoon parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Slow Cooker Method:

  1. Cook the Chicken:
    • Season the boneless skinless chicken breasts with garlic seasoning, salt, and pepper.
    • Place the chicken in a slow cooker and cover with chicken broth or water.
    • Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. (Alternatively, you can use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.)
  2. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray or oil.
  3. Shred the Chicken:
    • After cooking, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and chop or shred it into large pieces.
  4. Assemble the Casserole:
    • Place the shredded chicken at the bottom of the prepared casserole dish.
    • Sprinkle the garlic seasoning evenly over the chicken.
    • Pour sugar-free BBQ sauce over the chicken, covering it evenly.
    • Sprinkle the crumbled bacon on top of the BBQ sauce.
  5. Add the Cheese:
    • Top the casserole with a mixture of Monterey Jack cheese and sharp cheddar cheese, spreading it evenly.
  6. Bake the Casserole:
    • Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
    • If you like a golden-brown top, place the casserole on the top rack for the last 2 minutes of baking.
  7. Garnish and Serve:
    • Once baked, remove from the oven and sprinkle with parsley.
    • Serve warm and enjoy!

Additional Notes

  • Chicken Variations: You can substitute ground chicken or rotisserie chicken if you prefer.
  • BBQ Sauce Options: Use your favorite sugar-free BBQ sauce. If making your own, there are plenty of low-carb versions online.
  • Cheese Alternatives: Feel free to swap the Monterey Jack or cheddar with other cheeses like mozzarella or cream cheese for a creamier texture.
  • Add Veggies: You can stir in some sautéed onions or bell peppers for added flavor and texture.

Dietary Info

  • Keto-Friendly
  • Low-Carb
  • High-Protein
  • Gluten-Free

Ingredient Details & Substitutions

  • BBQ Sauce: Ensure the BBQ sauce is sugar-free to keep the recipe low-carb. You can easily make your own using tomato paste, vinegar, and sweetener.
  • Bacon: Use turkey bacon for a leaner version, or leave out the bacon for a vegetarian option.

Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions

  • Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and bacon, and add some cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles as a base.
  • More Veggies: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli to the casserole for extra nutrients.
  • Side Dishes: Serve with a side of green beans, cauliflower mash, or salad to complete the meal.

Storage & Make-Ahead

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: This casserole can be frozen for up to 1 month. Just allow it to cool before covering tightly and freezing.
  • Reheat: Reheat in the microwave or oven at 350°F until heated through, about 10 minutes.

Nutrition (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 480 kcal
  • Protein: 40 g
  • Fat: 32 g
  • Carbs: 6 g
  • Net Carbs: 4 g
  • Fiber: 2 g

FAQs

Q: Can I make this casserole in advance?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it overnight before baking. Just bake as directed the next day.

Q: What if I don’t have a slow cooker?
You can cook the chicken on the stovetop by pan-searing it until fully cooked, about 7-8 minutes per side, then chopping it up for the casserole.

Q: Can I use regular BBQ sauce instead of sugar-free?
While you can use regular BBQ sauce, it will add sugar and increase the carb count, making it less suitable for keto diets.

Optional Personal Story

This BBQ Chicken Casserole is a favorite in my household. It’s easy to make, and the combination of melted cheese, savory bacon, and smoky BBQ sauce makes it hard to resist. Perfect for meal prep or a cozy dinner!

Call-to-Action

Give this BBQ Chicken Casserole a try for your next family meal! It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for anyone on a low-carb or keto diet.

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