Are you on the keto diet but miss hearty, comforting meals? Look no further than this Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole! Packed with savory flavors and crispy bacon, this casserole is a perfect combination of tender chicken, creamy ranch dressing, and a crispy topping that will satisfy your cravings without compromising your low-carb lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for a family dinner or a simple weeknight meal, this dish is quick, easy, and incredibly delicious.

Ingredients for Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

Before we get into the cooking steps, here are the ingredients you’ll need:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, if preferred)
6 slices of crispy bacon, chopped
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 packet of ranch seasoning mix (or homemade ranch seasoning)
½ cup sour cream
½ cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven and Prepare Chicken:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, until the chicken is fully cooked through and golden brown. Once cooked, remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly. Slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Cook the Bacon:
In the same skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Once done, remove the bacon from the pan and set it on a paper towel to drain excess grease.
Mix the Creamy Ranch Sauce:
In a large bowl, mix the sour cream, mayonnaise, and ranch seasoning packet until well combined. You can adjust the ranch seasoning to your taste by adding a bit more for extra flavor.
Assemble the Casserole:
In a large casserole dish, combine the sliced chicken, crispy bacon, and the creamy ranch mixture. Stir everything together to coat the chicken and bacon evenly with the creamy sauce.
Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. For an extra crispy topping, feel free to add a few more slices of chopped bacon on top.
Bake the Casserole:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are golden brown.
Serve:
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.

Why You’ll Love This Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

This casserole is not only super easy to make, but it’s also loaded with flavor! The combination of ranch seasoning, chicken, and bacon provides an irresistible taste, while the creamy sauce ensures that each bite is smooth and satisfying. The melting mozzarella and cheddar cheese add richness, and the crispy bacon gives it that perfect crunch. Plus, this dish is keto-friendly, meaning it’s low in carbs and high in healthy fats, making it a perfect choice for anyone following a ketogenic diet.

Tips for Making the Best Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

Use Bone-In Chicken for Extra Flavor: While boneless chicken breasts work great, you can use bone-in chicken breasts or thighs for more flavor. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly and remove the bones before slicing.
Add Veggies: Want to sneak in some extra nutrients? Add some cauliflower florets or spinach to the casserole for added flavor and texture. You can even use a mix of cauliflower rice for a low-carb “rice” texture.
Make Ahead: This casserole can easily be prepared ahead of time. Simply assemble it and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. It’s perfect for meal prepping or preparing dinner in advance!
Customize the Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Pepper jack cheese will add a spicy kick, or try gouda for a more smoky flavor.

Nutritional Information

Calories per serving: 460 calories
Carbs: 5g net carbs per serving
Fat: 35g
Protein: 30g
Fiber: 2g

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Can I use a different protein for this casserole?

Yes, you can swap out the chicken for other proteins like turkey, ground beef, or pork. Just make sure to cook the meat through before assembling the casserole.

Is this recipe dairy-free?

This casserole contains cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise, so it’s not dairy-free. However, you can substitute with dairy-free alternatives like vegan cheese, avocado, or coconut cream to make it dairy-free.

How can I make this casserole spicier?

To give your casserole an extra kick, you can add diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or use spicy ranch seasoning. You could also use pepper jack cheese for a spicy twist.

Can I freeze the casserole?

Yes, you can make this casserole ahead of time and freeze it before baking. Simply assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

Conclusion

This Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole is the perfect weeknight meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor or your ketogenic diet. With tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a creamy ranch sauce, this dish will become a family favorite in no time. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it the perfect go-to for busy nights.

Give this recipe a try and enjoy a comforting, low-carb meal the whole family will love!

Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole Recipe