This indulgent chicken bake features tender, bite-sized poultry pieces submerged in a velvety, garlic-infused cream sauce. Thickened naturally with a blend of Parmesan and melted mozzarella, the casserole develops a golden, bubbling crust that locks in the savory aromas of paprika and onion powder. It offers a rich, high-protein comfort meal with a smooth, luxurious texture that highlights the classic pairing of sharp cheese and roasted garlic.
About This Recipe
The preparation begins on the stovetop, where minced garlic is sautéed in butter before being simmered with heavy cream and grated Parmesan. This process creates a stable, concentrated emulsion seasoned with garlic and onion powders to ensure a deep, savory profile throughout the base. As the raw chicken pieces bake directly in this sauce, they release their natural juices, further enriching the cream while the meat remains succulent and tender.
The flavor is characterized by the sharp, salty notes of the Parmesan and the warm, mild spice of the paprika. High-fat dairy provides a dense, mouth-coating richness that replaces the need for traditional starch-based thickeners, allowing the sauce to remain glossy and cohesive. During the final stage of baking, a layer of shredded mozzarella melts into a stretchy, protective topping that browns slightly, adding a toasted finish to the aromatic garlic base.
Typically served hot in deep portions, this casserole is well suited for family dinners or as a reliable centerpiece for weekly meal planning. It retains its creamy consistency and savory depth when reheated, making it a functional choice for those seeking a calorie-dense, low-carb meal. The combination of its straightforward assembly and its refined, steakhouse-style flavor makes it a sophisticated option for a satisfying keto dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy, cheesy, comforting, simple ingredients, easy to prep, reheats perfectly, family-friendly, rich flavor without carbs.
What You’ll Need for This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Casserole
- 2 lbs chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley for topping
Step-by-Step Preparation
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Grease a medium casserole dish.
- Melt butter in a skillet and sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add heavy cream, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer 2–3 minutes.
- Place chicken pieces into the casserole dish.
- Pour the cream sauce over the chicken and mix lightly.
- Top with shredded mozzarella.
- Bake 30–35 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Rest 5 minutes before serving and top with parsley.
FAQ
- Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes, they stay even juicier. - Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes — freeze before or after baking. - Can I add vegetables?
Broccoli or spinach works well, just keep carbs in mind.
Variations & Substitutions
- Add cooked bacon for extra richness
- Use Asiago instead of Parmesan
- Add a pinch of crushed red pepper for heat
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a simple side salad, roasted broccoli, or sautéed spinach.

Keto Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Casserole
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken breast (cut into bite-size pieces)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
- Fresh parsley for topping
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Grease a medium casserole dish.
- Melt butter in a skillet and sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add heavy cream, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer 2–3 minutes.
- Place chicken pieces into the casserole dish.
- Pour the cream sauce over the chicken and mix lightly.
- Top with shredded mozzarella.
- Bake 30–35 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Rest 5 minutes before serving and top with parsley.
Did you make this recipe?
I’d love to hear from you — leave a comment below and tell me how it turned out, what you liked, or if you made any tweaks!
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