Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Keto Cheesy Philly Casserole is packed with flavor and perfect for those looking for a delicious, low-carb meal. The tender chicken combined with the sweetness of bell peppers and a rich, cheesy sauce makes it a comforting dish that feels indulgent but is entirely keto-friendly. It’s quick to prepare and bakes into a bubbling, golden masterpiece, perfect for dinner or meal prep. Plus, it’s versatile—you can switch up the protein, use different vegetables, or even add more cheese to make it even richer!

Ingredients

2 lbs chicken breast, diced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breast and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell peppers. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Reduce the heat to low and add the cream cheese, heavy cream, mozzarella cheese, and cheddar cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the mixture becomes smooth.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix everything together until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Top with additional shredded cheese if desired.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Vegetable variations: You can add other low-carb vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to the casserole for extra flavor and nutrients.
Different protein: Try substituting the chicken with ground turkey, ground beef, or even shrimp for a different twist.
Extra cheese: Add more cheese on top for an even cheesier casserole, or experiment with different types of cheese like provolone or gouda.
Spice it up: For a little heat, add a chopped jalapeño or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it thoroughly before cooking to ensure even cooking and avoid excess moisture.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this casserole ahead of time, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking it straight from the fridge.

3. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Keto Cheesy Philly Casserole is gluten-free as long as all the ingredients, like the cream cheese and cheeses, are gluten-free.

4. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use a variety of cheeses based on your preference. Cream cheese, mozzarella, and cheddar are just a suggestion, but gouda, provolone, or even pepper jack could work great too.

5. Can I make this casserole in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for the slow cooker. Cook the chicken and vegetables in the skillet first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker with the cream cheese and cream. Cook on low for 3-4 hours or until everything is hot and bubbly.

6. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with a plant-based protein like tofu, tempeh, or even extra vegetables for a vegetarian version.

7. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, this casserole can be frozen for up to 1 month. Let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot and bubbly.

8. Can I use coconut cream instead of heavy cream?

Yes, you can use coconut cream as a dairy-free alternative, although it will add a slight coconut flavor to the dish.

9. How can I make this casserole spicier?

To make it spicier, add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes to the mixture before baking.

10. Can I use a different type of meat besides chicken?

Yes, ground turkey, beef, or pork can be substituted for chicken. Just be sure to cook them through before adding to the casserole.

Conclusion

Keto Cheesy Philly Casserole is the ultimate low-carb comfort food. It combines savory chicken, sweet bell peppers, and a creamy, cheesy sauce into one easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re following a keto diet or just looking for a hearty and delicious casserole, this recipe has it all. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite ingredients. Try it today for a meal that’s sure to satisfy!

Keto Cheesy Philly Casserole

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Keto Cheesy Philly Casserole is a low-carb, comforting dish that combines tender chicken, bell peppers, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce. This one-pan meal is packed with flavor and is perfect for anyone on a keto or low-carb diet. It’s quick to prepare, incredibly satisfying, and easily customizable with your favorite vegetables or proteins. A family-friendly favorite that bakes into a cheesy, golden masterpiece, making it ideal for dinner or meal prep.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 10min
Cook Time: 15min
Total Time: 30min
Yield: 4servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.

Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breast, season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook for 6-8 minutes until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell peppers. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.

Prepare the Sauce:
Reduce heat to low and add the cream cheese, heavy cream, mozzarella cheese, and cheddar cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth.

Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix everything together until well combined. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if desired.

Transfer to Baking Dish:
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Top with additional shredded cheese if desired.

Bake:
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Vegetable Variations: Add extra veggies like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for more flavor and nutrients.
Different Proteins: Substitute chicken with ground turkey, beef, or shrimp for a new twist.
Extra Cheese: Top with extra cheese for a cheesier, more indulgent casserole.
Spice it Up: For a spicy kick, add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the casserole.