This Keto Garlic Mushroom Chicken Casserole is a creamy delight packed with tender chicken and savory mushrooms. It’s low-carb and perfect for a cozy meal!
If you’re a fan of garlic, you’re in for a treat! I love how easy this dish is to throw together. Just mix, bake, and enjoy—it’s like a big hug in a dish! 🍄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this casserole, but thighs can also work if you prefer more juiciness. If you want a lighter option, you can use turkey cutlets instead.
Mushrooms: Cremini and button mushrooms are fantastic choices here. If you can’t find them, shiitake or oyster mushrooms can add a different flavor twist! Just slice them up and use as needed.
Heavy Cream: It really gives that rich creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use coconut cream or half-and-half. Just be aware that coconut cream will impart a slight coconut flavor.
Cheese: Shredded mozzarella is classic for this dish, but feel free to mix in cheddar or gouda for extra flavor. Parmesan cheese adds a lovely nuttiness; if you don’t have any, skip it or substitute with nutritional yeast for a cheese flavor.
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken Is Perfectly Cooked?
A common concern is ensuring your chicken is cooked just right in casseroles. To avoid dry chicken, it’s essential to avoid overcooking. Here’s how:
- Cook the chicken until golden brown outside, about 4-5 minutes per side—don’t stress about fully cooking through yet!
- Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) once baking, which guarantees it’s safe and juicy.
Letting the chicken sit in the creamy sauce while baking helps it to keep moist and soak up flavors. Enjoy your juicy chicken and creamy casserole!
Keto Garlic Mushroom Chicken Casserole
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 8 oz (225 g) mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button mushrooms)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This wonderful casserole takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 25 minutes for baking, totaling around 35 minutes to get everything ready and cooked to perfection. It’s a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Chicken:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. They don’t need to be fully cooked just yet. Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside—it’s almost time for the oven!
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 3 minutes until it’s translucent. This adds a sweet and savory flavor to your dish. Now, toss in the sliced mushrooms and let them cook for around 5-7 minutes, until they release their juices and start to brown. Don’t forget to stir occasionally! Next, add in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until it’s wonderfully fragrant.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring everything together until well combined. Sprinkle in the dried thyme, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let this delicious sauce simmer and thicken slightly for about 3-5 minutes while stirring occasionally to avoid burning.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Now it’s time to put it all together! Place the partially cooked chicken back into the skillet, or if you’re using a baking dish, transfer everything there. Make sure to pour the creamy mushroom sauce evenly over the chicken. Finally, sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese generously on top for that melty, cheesy goodness!
5. Bake to Perfection:
Put the casserole in the preheated oven and bake it uncovered for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye out until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C) and the cheese is beautifully melted and golden.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s out of the oven, let it sit for a minute before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy your rich, creamy Keto Garlic Mushroom Chicken Casserole with some steamed green veggies or a crisp salad on the side for a delightful low-carb meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is a classic choice for its melty texture, you can also mix in cheddar, gouda, or even fontina for additional flavor. Just be mindful of the overall saltiness, as some cheeses can be saltier than others.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or half-and-half. For a dairy-free version, almond milk or cashew cream can work, but keep in mind that your sauce may not be as thick or creamy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed to revive the sauce’s creaminess.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s going in the oven cold!
