Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole (Keto)

A hearty dish that combines the flavors of Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole (Keto) is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends. This dish transforms a beloved dip into a rich and satisfying casserole, topped with gooey mozzarella cheese that melts beautifully as it bakes. Not only is it Keto-friendly, but it’s also easy to prepare and packed with protein, making it a standout choice for health-conscious diners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The creamy texture combined with spinach and artichokes creates an irresistible taste.
• Quick Preparation: With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can have this dish ready for the oven in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as a main course or alongside salads and low-carb sides.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Great for leftovers! Store easily in the fridge or freeze for later enjoyment.
• Rich in Protein: With chicken and cheese as key ingredients, this casserole offers a satisfying protein boost.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this tasty casserole.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• 9 x 13 baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for combining all your ingredients without any spills.
• 9 x 13 baking dish: Perfect size for baking casseroles evenly, ensuring all ingredients cook perfectly together.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial to achieve the best flavor balance in your dish.

Ingredients

A popular dip turned into a delicious Keto-friendly casserole and baked with gooey mozzarella cheese on top!

• 4 cups cooked chicken (shredded/chopped)
• 9 ounce package frozen spinach (thawed and well drained)
• 14 ounces artichoke hearts (plain) (chopped)
• 8 ounces cream cheese (at room temperature)
• 1 cup parmesan cheese (grated)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2/3 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise (see my recipe)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole (Keto)

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F. This ensures that the casserole cooks evenly from the start.

Step 2: Prepare the Mixture

In a large mixing bowl:
* Add the cream cheese, sour cream, heavy cream, mayonnaise, garlic, and season with salt and pepper.
* Mix until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Next:
* Stir in the remaining ingredients except for the mozzarella cheese.
* Ensure everything is mixed thoroughly.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

Now it’s time to bake:
* Pour the mixture into a 9 x 13 baking dish that has been sprayed with nonstick spray.
* Top it off with the shredded mozzarella cheese.
* Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes.

Step 5: Finish Baking

To achieve that perfect golden top:
* Increase the oven temperature to 400°F.
* Bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is slightly golden and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve Your Dish

Allow cooling slightly before serving. Enjoy this delicious Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole warm, and store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for several days or freeze them for later use!

How to Serve Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole (Keto)

Serving your Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole (Keto) can enhance the dining experience. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this dish that combines creamy goodness with savory flavors.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• A light green salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a zesty vinaigrette complements the richness of the casserole.

Serve with Cauliflower Rice

• For a low-carb option, serve the casserole over cauliflower rice. It absorbs the flavors beautifully and adds a nice texture.

Add Zucchini Noodles

• Zoodles (zucchini noodles) provide a fun twist. They are fresh and perfectly absorb the cheesy goodness of the casserole.

Accompany with Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted broccoli or asparagus pairs well with the creamy casserole, adding both color and nutrients to your meal.

Top with Avocado Slices

• Adding slices of ripe avocado on top gives a creamy texture and enhances the healthy fats in this Keto dish.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh parsley or basil can brighten up the plate. Sprinkle some on top before serving for added flavor and presentation.

How to Perfect Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole (Keto)

For an even tastier Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole (Keto), consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh spinach instead of frozen for better flavor and texture. This will elevate your dish significantly.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your mixture before baking. Feel free to tweak salt and pepper levels according to your preference for a more personalized flavor.

• Mix Cheeses: Combining different cheese varieties like gouda or cheddar with mozzarella can add depth to the casserole’s taste.

• Bake Until Golden: Ensure you bake until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden on top for that perfect crispy finish.

• Cool Slightly Before Serving: Allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes after baking. This helps it set and makes serving easier.

• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness for several days.

Best Side Dishes for Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole (Keto)

Pairing side dishes with your Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole (Keto) can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy on the outside, tender inside, these sprouts add a delightful crunch alongside your casserole.

2. Creamy Mashed Cauliflower: A low-carb alternative that offers a smooth texture blended with garlic for extra flavor.

3. Sautéed Green Beans: Simple yet flavorful green beans sautéed in olive oil with garlic make a great complement.

4. Cauliflower Mac and Cheese: This cheesy side dish mirrors flavors while staying within Keto limits, making it a perfect match.

5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Fill bell peppers with seasoned ground turkey and cheese for an exciting addition that’s visually appealing.

6. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in lemon juice can balance out the richness of the casserole nicely.

7. Zucchini Fritters: Crispy fritters made from zucchini pack flavor without many carbs, making them an ideal pairing.

8. Riced Broccoli: Lightly riced broccoli tossed in olive oil adds nutrients while keeping everything low carb and delicious.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish.

• Skipping the draining step: Not properly draining the spinach can lead to a watery casserole. Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture before mixing it in.
• Using cold cream cheese: Cold cream cheese can create lumps in your mixture. Always let it come to room temperature for a smooth blend.
• Overbaking the casserole: Baking too long can dry out the dish. Keep an eye on it after the initial baking time to prevent overcooking.
• Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season with salt and pepper can make your casserole bland. Taste your mixture before baking and adjust accordingly.
• Not letting it cool before serving: Serving immediately can cause the casserole to fall apart. Allow it to cool slightly for better texture and ease of serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The casserole will keep well for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole (Keto)

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• Best used within 2-3 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole (Keto)

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole (Keto).

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh spinach! Just sauté it until wilted and make sure to drain it well.

How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

Substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives like cashew cream, nutritional yeast, and vegan cheese.

What can I serve with this casserole?

Pair it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal that complements the casserole’s rich flavors.

How do I customize the flavors of Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole (Keto)?

Feel free to add other ingredients like diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition!

Final Thoughts

This Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole (Keto) is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for any occasion. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or cheeses to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!