If you’re craving the cozy, cheesy flavors of classic Chicken Parmesan but want to stick to your keto goals, this Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole is exactly what you need. In this article, we’ll dive into the heartwarming story behind this dish, show you how easy it is to make, explore key flavor and texture elements, and share tips for keeping it low-carb and family-friendly. You’ll also discover related recipes to keep your keto journey exciting and varied.
Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Table of Contents
Why I Love This Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole
A nostalgic comfort dish, keto-style
Growing up, Chicken Parmesan was always a big deal in my house. My mom would make it on special Sundays, layering crispy chicken with tangy marinara and melted cheese. It was the kind of meal that brought everyone to the table without needing to call them twice. Now, as someone who loves the comfort of home-cooked meals but follows a low-carb lifestyle, I’ve reimagined that old favorite into something keto-friendly without losing an ounce of that cozy, satisfying flavor. This Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole keeps all the good stuff—mozzarella, marinara, Parmesan—but skips the carbs by using crushed pork rinds or Parmesan crisps instead of breadcrumbs.
And the best part? It’s unbelievably easy. Toss everything into a baking dish and you’ve got dinner for the whole family in under an hour. Whether you’re using leftover rotisserie chicken or freshly cooked breast, the casserole adapts. I’ve even made it ahead and reheated it with great results—no soggy mess, just layers of cheesy deliciousness.
This casserole reminds me of the joy of home cooking and the power of small tweaks. It turns a carb-heavy favorite into a guilt-free weeknight staple. It also pairs well with other satisfying dishes, like this Hot Honey Feta Chicken when you’re craving a little extra heat, or Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo if you’re cooking for family members who aren’t keto and want a hearty side.
What makes this casserole keto and delicious?
Let’s talk ingredients. This recipe is loaded with flavor and texture, thanks to smart substitutions and a handful of wholesome, keto-approved ingredients. You’ll use cooked cubed chicken as the base—rotisserie chicken works wonders here—then layer on a sugar-free marinara, plenty of Parmesan and mozzarella cheese, and finish it off with a crunchy topping made from Parmesan crisps or pork rinds.
The key to keeping it keto is skipping traditional breadcrumbs and pasta. Instead, we rely on the power of flavor and fat to bring everything together in one rich, filling bite. Seasoned with garlic, Italian herbs, and olive oil, each bite of this casserole hits that perfect balance of tangy, cheesy, and savory. It’s everything you want from a baked dish—melty, comforting, and totally satisfying—without throwing off your macros.
This dish is so reliable, it’s become part of our rotation right next to classics like Chicken Potato Broccoli Casserole and even creative takes like Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken when we’re grilling instead of baking.
Step-by-Step Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole
How to Make It in Just 30 Minutes of Prep
Creating this Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole is much easier than it sounds. With a handful of basic ingredients and a little oven time, you’ll get a bubbly, golden dinner that rivals any traditional pasta bake.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Lightly coat a 9×13-inch casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray. In a large mixing bowl, toss together 4 cups of cubed, cooked chicken—leftover baked breast or rotisserie chicken works perfectly here—with 3/4 cup of sugar-free marinara sauce, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning. This infuses the chicken with rich, savory flavor before the cheese ever hits it.
Next, stir in 2 tablespoons of almond flour, which helps bind the ingredients without using high-carb breadcrumbs. Then fold in 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese and 1 cup shredded mozzarella. Spread the mixture evenly in your prepared baking dish.
Finally, top everything with the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella and 3/4 cup finely crushed pork rinds or Parmesan crisps. Bake for 25–30 minutes, uncovered, until the cheese is melted and bubbling and the topping is golden brown. For a slightly crispier finish, broil for the last 2 minutes—just watch closely so it doesn’t burn.
Need a side? Serve it up with a simple salad or alongside dishes like these juicy White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers or flavorful Crockpot Thai Chicken Curry.
Meal prep tips for busy nights
You can prep the entire dish a day in advance and store it, covered, in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. It also freezes beautifully. Just assemble it in a freezer-safe container (skip the crispy topping for now), cover tightly, and freeze. When you’re ready to cook, thaw in the fridge overnight, sprinkle on the topping, and bake as usual.
Customization Ideas + Tips for Perfect Results
Flavor twists to keep it fresh
Want a little spice? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or mix chopped jalapeños into the chicken base. Craving a richer flavor? Swap in smoked mozzarella or even provolone. These small changes can make a big impact while still keeping everything keto-friendly.
Fold in fresh spinach or roasted zucchini for added bulk. Crushed Parmesan crisps mixed with almond flour make a deliciously crispy topping that adds crunch in every bite. Try pairing this dish with sweet-savory combos like Jalapeño Peach Chicken for contrast.
Avoiding common casserole mistakes
- Don’t over-sauce: Too much marinara can make the casserole watery.
- Always use pre-cooked chicken.
- Crisp topping separately if freezing.
- Parmesan is salty—taste before seasoning more.
These little habits ensure your casserole is always a hit. And if you’re craving another comfort classic, Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine or Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps are delicious next-up ideas.
Serving Ideas, Nutrition, and Storage
The best ways to serve Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Serve with a Caesar salad, roasted green beans, or balsamic-drizzled veggies. Want to go fancy? Plate it with a side of Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad (swap out the pasta) or pair with a Grilled Chicken Caprese platter for fresh flavor.
Storage and nutrition facts
Store up to 4 days in the fridge or 2 months in the freezer.
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 360 |
| Protein | 37g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Net Carbs | 4g |
FAQs
Is Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole gluten-free?
Yes, it uses almond flour and no wheat-based ingredients.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble it, store, and bake when ready.
What’s the best crunchy topping?
Crushed pork rinds, Parmesan crisps, or both.
Can I use different cheeses?
Yes! Try provolone, gouda, or smoked mozzarella.
Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole – Easy Low-Carb Comfort Food
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A cheesy and satisfying keto chicken parmesan casserole made with low-carb ingredients, perfect for easy family dinners or weekly meal prep.
Ingredients
4 cups cubed rotisserie chicken or chicken breast, cooked and cubed
3/4 cup no added sugar marinara sauce
1 tbsp Italian seasoning
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp almond flour
3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
3/4 cup finely crushed Parmesan crisps or pork rinds
Non-stick cooking spray
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F and spray a 9×13″ baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
2. In a large bowl, combine cubed chicken, marinara, olive oil, garlic, and Italian seasoning.
3. Stir in almond flour, 3/4 cup Parmesan, and 1 cup mozzarella.
4. Spread mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
5. Top with remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella and crushed Parmesan crisps or pork rinds.
6. Bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbling and golden on top.
7. Broil for 1–2 minutes for extra crispiness, if desired.
8. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Use rotisserie chicken for quicker prep.
Can be assembled ahead of time and baked later.
Freeze without topping for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/6 of dish)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 37g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a reliable, cheesy, and deeply satisfying low-carb dinner, this Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole should be at the top of your list. It brings classic Italian comfort into your kitchen without the pasta or guilt, and it’s endlessly flexible to suit your taste. Whether you’re meal-prepping, feeding family, or just craving something warm and cozy, this casserole has your back.
Looking for more keto favorites? Try Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs or Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti—they’re equally comforting and keto-adaptable.
