Keto Chicken Pot Pie Casserole (Gluten-Free) Recipe

Introduction

Welcome to our detailed guide for making a delicious Keto Chicken Pot Pie Casserole that is both low-carb and gluten-free. This recipe is perfect for those following a ketogenic diet, aiming to maintain a low carbohydrate intake while still enjoying a comforting and hearty meal. We have crafted this recipe to ensure it aligns with keto guidelines without compromising on flavor or texture. This comprehensive guide will walk you through each step of the process, from ingredient preparation to the final dish, ensuring you achieve the perfect keto casserole every time.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Filling:

  • 4 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed (preferably from a rotisserie chicken for ease)
  • 2 cups cauliflower florets, chopped into small pieces
  • 1 cup chopped celery
  • 1 cup chopped carrots (use sparingly to keep carbs low, or substitute with additional celery)
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth (preferably homemade or low-sodium)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Crust:

  • 1 ½ cups almond flour
  • ¼ cup coconut flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For Garnish:

  • Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven:

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your casserole will cook evenly and come out with the perfect texture.

2. Prepare the Chicken Filling:

  • Cook Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, celery, and carrots (if using). Sauté until the vegetables are tender and the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
  • Add Chicken and Broth: Stir in the cooked chicken breast, cauliflower florets, and chicken broth. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.
  • Incorporate Cream and Seasonings: Pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Add the dried thyme, rosemary, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for 5-10 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.

3. Prepare the Crust:

  • Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of almond flour, ¼ cup of coconut flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Mix well.
  • Add Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs and 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Add the egg mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms.
  • Add Cheese: Fold in ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese until evenly distributed.

4. Assemble the Casserole:

  • Transfer Chicken Mixture: Pour the chicken filling mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
  • Top with Crust: Drop spoonfuls of the crust dough over the chicken filling. Spread it out gently to cover the top of the casserole.

5. Bake the Casserole:

  • Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
  • Cool Slightly: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

6. Garnish and Serve:

  • Garnish: Optionally, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for added color and freshness.
  • Serve: Scoop out portions and enjoy your comforting, low-carb Chicken Pot Pie Casserole.

Nutritional Information (per serving, assuming 6 servings total):

  • Calories: 345
  • Total Fat: 28 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 12 grams
  • Cholesterol: 130 milligrams
  • Sodium: 590 milligrams
  • Total Carbohydrates: 11 grams
  • Net Carbohydrates: 6 grams
  • Dietary Fiber: 5 grams
  • Sugars: 3 grams
  • Protein: 20 grams

Weight Watchers SmartPoints:

This Keto Chicken Pot Pie Casserole is approximately 6 SmartPoints per serving on the Weight Watchers Freestyle plan. The Points value can vary based on specific ingredient brands and substitutions, so be sure to check the SmartPoints value of your chosen ingredients if precision is crucial.

Expert Tips:

  1. Substituting Vegetables: If you prefer fewer carbohydrates, you can omit the carrots or replace them with additional celery or mushrooms.
  2. Chicken Options: Using rotisserie chicken not only saves time but also adds great flavor. Ensure any skin is removed if you prefer a leaner option.
  3. Thickening Filling: If the filling seems too runny, simmer it longer to reduce the liquid or add a bit more almond flour to thicken it.
  4. Crust Variations: For a different flavor, consider adding herbs or spices to the crust mixture.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair this casserole with a fresh green salad or a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal. This dish is also perfect for meal prepping and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Conclusion:

Our Keto Chicken Pot Pie Casserole is a delicious and satisfying option for those adhering to a ketogenic lifestyle. It combines the comforting flavors of a classic pot pie with the benefits of a low-carb, gluten-free recipe. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll be able to prepare a meal that aligns with your dietary goals while still providing the rich, hearty taste you crave. Enjoy this dish as a hearty dinner or a delicious meal prep option for busy days.