Keto Chicken Pesto Casserole: Creamy, Flavorful & Low-Carb Comfort Food

Looking for a hearty, low-carb dinner that bursts with flavor and comes together in one pan? This Keto Chicken Pesto Casserole is exactly what you need. Packed with tender chicken, rich pesto, creamy mozzarella, and baked to golden perfection, this dish delivers restaurant-quality taste without any of the carbs or hassle.

Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or feeding a hungry family, this casserole combines bold Mediterranean flavors with keto-friendly ingredients for a comforting, satisfying meal.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through how to make the best Keto Chicken Pesto Casserole , offer variations for different dietary needs, share storage and prep tips, and answer all your most common questions.

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🥘 Why You’ll Love This Keto Chicken Pesto Casserole

Here’s why this casserole deserves a spot in your weekly meal rotation:

• Low-carb & keto-approved : No pasta, no flour—just clean, healthy ingredients.
• Creamy & cheesy : Loaded with mozzarella and Parmesan for rich flavor.
• Packed with flavor : Fresh basil pesto adds herby depth and vibrant color.
• Easy one-pan meal : Minimal cleanup and ready in under an hour.
• Meal-prep friendly : Keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Crowd-pleasing : Loved by both keto followers and carb-eaters alike.

It’s comfort food made healthy—and it hits all the right notes!

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🧾 Ingredients Needed (Serves 6–8)

For the Casserole:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• ½ cup homemade or store-bought keto pesto (check for sugar content)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream or unsweetened almond milk (for lighter version)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1 cup steamed broccoli or cauliflower florets (for extra veggies)

Optional Toppings:

• Extra pesto drizzle
• Fresh basil leaves
• Crushed red pepper flakes
• Olive oil or balsamic glaze

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🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions

Making this Keto Chicken Pesto Casserole couldn’t be easier—even if you’re short on time.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Season chicken breasts or thighs generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken (Optional)

For extra flavor, sear chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned on both sides. Remove and set aside.

Note: You can skip this step and place raw chicken directly into the casserole if preferred.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

In a bowl, mix heavy cream (or almond milk), pesto, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

1. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, layer chicken pieces.
2. Pour the pesto-cream sauce evenly over the top.
3. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the chicken.
4. If using, stir in steamed broccoli or cauliflower.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and the top is bubbly and golden.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Let cool slightly before serving warm. Drizzle with extra pesto or olive oil if desired.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Make your Keto Chicken Pesto Casserole shine with these great pairing ideas:

• Garlic bread (keto or regular)
• Side salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Roasted asparagus or zucchini
• Mashed cauliflower or mashed turnips
• Crusty keto rolls or focaccia

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🥣 Nutritional Information (Per Serving Approx., based on 6 servings)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~400
Protein	~35g
Fat	~25g
Carbs	~4g
Fiber	~1g
Net Carbs	~3g
Sugar	~1g
Sodium	~400mg

Note: Values may vary depending on brand of pesto and type of cheese used.

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🧀 Why Use Pesto in a Keto Dish?

Pesto is a keto superfood in disguise! Traditional basil pesto is naturally low in carbs and loaded with healthy fats from olive oil and pine nuts. Here’s why it works so well:

• Flavor powerhouse : Adds fresh, savory, and aromatic depth.
• Healthy fats : Supports ketosis and keeps you full longer.
• Versatile : Can be used in casseroles, sauces, dressings, and dips.
• Nutrient-rich : Basil is packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.

Just be sure to use sugar-free pesto or make your own to avoid hidden carbs.

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💡 Expert Tips for the Best Chicken Pesto Casserole

1. Use thick chicken breasts – Ensures even cooking and prevents drying out.
2. Don’t overcook the chicken – Bake just until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
3. Add moisture with cream – Heavy cream gives a luxurious texture and helps prevent dryness.
4. Layer cheese strategically – Mix some mozzarella into the sauce for extra gooeyness.
5. Let it rest – Allows flavors to meld and makes slicing easier if making ahead.

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🥣 How to Store & Meal Prep Your Casserole

This casserole is ideal for meal prepping and makes excellent leftovers.

Refrigeration:

• Keep covered in the fridge for up to 4 days
• Reheat in the oven or microwave for best results

Freezing:

• Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers
• Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently
• Store unbaked casserole for up to 3 months

Meal Prep Ideas:

• Divide into single-serving containers for lunches throughout the week
• Pack with keto snacks like olives, nuts, or hard-boiled eggs
• Add a side salad or roasted veggies for a complete meal

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is pesto keto-friendly?

A: Yes, traditional pesto made with basil, olive oil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan is naturally low in carbs.

Q: Can I use frozen vegetables?

A: Yes! Just thaw and drain excess water before adding.

Q: What kind of cheese should I use?

A: Mozzarella and Parmesan are best, but you can also use cheddar, goat cheese, or Gouda.

Q: Can I make this casserole without cream?

A: Yes! Substitute with coconut milk (full-fat) or unsweetened almond milk for a lighter version.

Q: Is there a vegan version?

A: Yes! Use vegan chicken substitute and vegan cheese, and ensure pesto is plant-based.

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🧁 Variations for Different Diets

This recipe is easily customizable to suit various dietary preferences:

Dairy-Free Chicken Pesto Casserole

• Replace mozzarella and Parmesan with dairy-free cheese alternatives
• Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream

Vegetarian Version

• Swap chicken for tofu, eggplant slices, or portobello mushrooms
• Add sun-dried tomatoes or artichokes for extra flavor

Spicy Kick Version

• Add crushed red pepper flakes to the pesto sauce
• Top with sliced jalapeños or drizzle with sriracha mayo

Cheesy Baked Pasta (Non-Keto Option)

• Stir in cooked keto pasta or regular spaghetti for a non-keto twist

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🌐 A Brief History of Pesto (and Its Place in Modern Keto Cuisine)

Pesto originated in Genoa, Italy, as part of the Ligurian cuisine. Traditionally made with fresh basil, olive oil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese, pesto has been enjoyed for centuries as a flavorful condiment and sauce.

With the rise of the ketogenic diet , pesto has become a staple ingredient in many low-carb kitchens due to its high fat content and minimal carbs. Today, it’s featured in everything from casseroles to burgers, proving that classic flavors still have a place in modern eating.

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🧑‍🍳 Final Thoughts

This Keto Chicken Pesto Casserole proves that eating low-carb doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. With its creamy texture, bold herb flavor, and melt-in-your-mouth chicken, it’s a total winner for anyone following a ketogenic lifestyle—or simply craving something fresh, comforting, and easy to make.

Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, hosting friends, or just looking for a quick and healthy dinner, this casserole delivers every time.

So go ahead—mix up that pesto, layer in the cheese, and enjoy a modern twist on Italian-inspired comfort food!

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