Keto Chicken Divan Casserole: Low-Carb Comfort Food Classic

The first time I served this Keto Chicken Divan Casserole to my family, they had no idea they were eating a low-carb dish. This creamy, cheesy chicken and broccoli casserole delivers all the comforting flavors of the classic recipe without the carbohydrates that don’t fit into a keto lifestyle. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this satisfying casserole proves that cutting carbs doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or the hearty, comforting meals you love.

chicken divan casserole on a plate and in a baking dish

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Why This Recipe Works

This keto-friendly version succeeds by cleverly substituting high-carb ingredients with low-carb alternatives. Mayonnaise creates a rich, creamy base without flour-thickened sauce, while sharp cheddar provides flavor depth and a golden brown topping without breadcrumbs. The combination of tender chicken and perfectly cooked broccoli ensures every bite is satisfying, making this a dish that even non-keto family members will request again and again.

Ingredients

  • Chopped onion – Contributes aromatic depth and subtle sweetness
  • Boneless skinless chicken breasts – Provides lean protein and the foundation of the dish
  • Shredded sharp cheddar cheese – Creates rich flavor and a golden, bubbly topping
  • Mayonnaise – Forms the creamy, keto-friendly base that replaces traditional sauce
  • Frozen broccoli – Adds essential nutrients, fiber, and texture contrast
keto chicken divan casserole ingredients on a baking sheet

Ingredient Notes

You can use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe. I often simply poach inexpensive bone-in split chicken breasts for about 20 to 25 minutes and use these. The split chicken breasts are a lot cheaper than the boneless skinless chicken breasts we so often buy.

I then quickly remove the skin and bones and throw the chicken into my Bosch mixer with my cookie paddle. It beautifully shreds the chicken breast.

To make cooking this even easier, I purchase frozen broccoli and use that for the recipe. Frozen broccoli has already been blanched, so it makes cooking a breeze.

How to Make Chicken Divan Casserole

  1. Boil the chicken breasts until done.
  2. Cut the chicken into bite-sized cubes.
  3. In a large bowl, mix all of the ingredients except for a third of the cheese.
    keto chicken divan casserole ingredients in a bowl
  4. Place the mixture in a large glass baking dish.
  5. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on the top.
    keto chicken divan casserole before being baked
  6. Bake at 350 degrees for 60 minutes or until the cheese topping bubbles.
  7. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it stand for 15 minutes before serving.
Chicken divan on a white plate.

Keto-Friendly Chicken Divan Casserole

A creamy, cheesy low-carb version of the classic comfort food casserole that the whole family will love. Perfect for keto dieters and anyone watching their carb intake.
5 from 9 votes
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Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Casserole, Chicken Breast, Keto, Low Carb
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 12
Calories: 871kcal

Ingredients

  • 3 Pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 3 Pounds Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese
  • 2 Cups Mayonnaise
  • 2 pounds frozen broccoli
  • 1 cup chopped onion

Instructions

  • Boil the chicken breasts for 20 minutes and then cut into 1/2 inch cubes. In a large bowl mix all of the ingredients, except for 1 pound of Shredded Cheddar Cheese. Place the mixture in a large glass baking dish, and sprinkle the remaining pound of Shredded Cheddar Cheese on the top. 
  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Bake for 60 minutes or until the topping on the cheese bubbles. Remove from oven and let stand for 15 minutes to allow the cheese to congeal before serving.

Notes

For the most flavorful and economical option, consider using bone-in split chicken breasts instead of boneless skinless breasts. They’re typically less expensive and offer more flavor. Simply poach them for 20-25 minutes, then remove the skin and bones before shredding or cubing the meat. If you have a stand mixer, you can use it with a paddle attachment to quickly shred the chicken. The frozen broccoli in this recipe saves significant prep time as it’s already blanched, but be sure to thaw and drain it well to prevent excess water in your casserole.

Nutrition

Calories: 871kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 54g | Fat: 68g | Saturated Fat: 28g | Cholesterol: 207mg | Sodium: 1098mg | Potassium: 796mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 1665IU | Vitamin C: 69.8mg | Calcium: 865mg | Iron: 1.9mg
keto chicken divan casserole on a plate

Variations and Substitutions

Protein Options:

  • Rotisserie chicken – For a convenient time-saver with great flavor
  • Leftover turkey – Makes this perfect for post-holiday meals
  • Canned chicken – In a pinch, well-drained canned chicken works too

Vegetable Variations:

  • Fresh broccoli – Blanch for 1.5 minutes in boiling water, then cool in ice water
  • Cauliflower – Substitute some or all of the broccoli for variety
  • Spinach – Add thawed and well-drained frozen spinach for extra nutrients

Flavor Enhancements:

  • Hot sauce – Add to the mayonnaise for a spicy kick
  • Dijon mustard – 1-2 teaspoons adds complexity
  • Ranch seasoning – 1 tablespoon provides an herby flavor profile

Low-Carb Topping Options

  • Crushed pork rinds – Provides excellent crunch and savory flavor
  • Grated Parmesan cheese – Creates a crispy, golden brown top
  • Sesame or flaxseeds – Adds subtle crunch and nutritional benefits

Storage and Reheating

  • Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 4 days
  • Freezer: Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 1 month
  • Reheating from refrigerated: Microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes
  • Reheating from frozen: Allow to come to room temperature, then cover with foil and heat at 350°F for 20 minutes

More Low Carb and Keto Friendly Recipes

Favorite Casserole Recipes

Check out my easy low carb recipes and the best casserole recipes here on CopyKat!

Before you go, please share your ideas for creating a great low carb chicken casserole!

About Stephanie Manley

Stephanie Manley is the creator of CopyKat.com. She has been recreating copycat recipes since 1995. Learn more about Stephanie Manley.

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Cece

    I used 1 lb of chicken and 3 cups of cheese for just my husband and myself, and it was quite good. Always looking for Keto recipes. Thanks Stephanie.

  2. Cristina

    5 stars
    I’ve been wanting to try using crushed pork rinds. When cooked in a recipe, do you notice the pork smell or does it dissipate from being cooked?

    • Jay

      Yep, there is still some “rindiness” there. But it is not like sticking your nose into a freshly opened bag of pork rinds.

  3. Nova Taylor

    5 stars
    I made this yesterday at home and guess what it turned out really amazing and delicious, but I used fresh broccoli which didn’t make any big difference in the taste.
    Thank you and keep sharing:)

  4. Brenda

    Can fresh broccoli be used instead of frozen? Also, I noticed that in the Nutrition Facts, it has a lot of sodium, cholesterol, and the calories from fat are very high…is this healthy? I value your opinion. Thank you in advance…

    • Stephanie

      Yes, you can use fresh broccoli, you will need to steam it before simply baking it. This recipe is high fat and higher protein. This recipe is meant for people following the low-carb and keto diet. Both of those two diets emphasize fat and protein. If you are following a low-fat diet, this isn’t the recipe that is appropriate for your personal diet.

  5. Carol

    So glad you’re doing Keto recipes now. Always nice to have another resource and your recipes are always so delicious! Will try this soon.

5 from 9 votes

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