Keto Smoked Paprika Chicken & Cabbage Casserole is a rich, smoky low-carb bake made with tender chicken, sautéed cabbage, and a creamy paprika sauce. This easy keto chicken casserole is perfect for meal prep, comforting dinners, and flavorful low-carb eating. Bold spices, simple ingredients, and fully keto-friendly.
About This Recipe
Keto Smoked Paprika Chicken & Cabbage Casserole is a deeply savory, comforting low-carb dish that highlights the bold flavor of smoked paprika paired with tender chicken and soft, buttery cabbage. Cabbage is a classic keto-friendly vegetable that absorbs flavors beautifully while adding volume and texture without excess carbs. When combined with a creamy sauce and baked until bubbly, it transforms into a rich and satisfying casserole that feels hearty without being heavy.
The recipe begins by lightly sautéing cabbage until just softened, which removes excess moisture and builds flavor. Chicken is seasoned generously with smoked paprika, garlic, and simple spices, then combined with a creamy base made from heavy cream, cream cheese, and a touch of broth. As the casserole bakes, the sauce thickens and coats every bite, infusing the chicken and cabbage with smoky depth and savory richness. A light cheese topping melts into the surface, creating a golden finish while keeping the interior creamy.
This casserole is ideal for meal prep because it reheats exceptionally well and the flavors deepen overnight. It’s also highly customizable — you can add bacon, mushrooms, or extra spices depending on how smoky or bold you want the dish to be. The balance of protein, fat, and low-carb vegetables makes it perfect for keto lifestyles, family dinners, or easy weeknight meals when you want something warm and filling.
Whether you’re expanding your Chicken Casserole board or planning reliable low-carb dinners for the week, this smoked paprika chicken and cabbage bake delivers comfort, flavor, and simplicity in every serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold smoked paprika flavor
- Creamy and comforting
- Naturally low-carb and keto
- Budget-friendly ingredients
- Perfect for meal prep
- Easy weeknight casserole
- Family-friendly comfort food
- Great cabbage-based keto dish
Ingredients
For the Casserole
- 1.5 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
- 4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Smoked Paprika Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
For Topping
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- Chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add cabbage and sauté 5–7 minutes until softened; remove and set aside.
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
- In the same skillet, lightly brown chicken 3–4 minutes (not fully cooked).
- In a saucepan, heat heavy cream, cream cheese, broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and remaining smoked paprika until smooth.
- Combine cabbage, chicken, and smoked paprika sauce.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish and top with mozzarella.
- Bake 20–25 minutes until bubbly and chicken is fully cooked.
- Garnish with parsley and serve.
Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: 410
- Fat: 29g
- Protein: 32g
- Net Carbs: 4g
FAQ
- Q: Can I use chicken thighs?
A: Yes — thighs add extra juiciness and flavor. - Q: Does cabbage get mushy?
A: No, sautéing first keeps it tender but structured. - Q: Can I make it spicier?
A: Add chili flakes or hot smoked paprika. - Q: Can I add bacon?
A: Absolutely — bacon pairs perfectly with cabbage and paprika. - Q: Is this good for meal prep?
A: Yes. It reheats very well and keeps its texture.
Variations & Substitutions
- Add bacon for smoky depth
- Use hot smoked paprika for heat
- Add mushrooms for volume
- Swap mozzarella for cheddar
- Add caraway seeds for a European twist
- Use savoy cabbage instead of green
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with cauliflower rice
- Pair with roasted broccoli
- Add a crisp green salad
- Enjoy as a complete one-dish meal
Keto Smoked Paprika Chicken & Cabbage Casserole
Ingredients
For the Casserole
- 1.5 lb chicken breast (cut into bite-size pieces)
- 4 cups green cabbage (thinly sliced)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Smoked Paprika Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
For Topping
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- Chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add cabbage and sauté 5–7 minutes until softened; remove and set aside.
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
- In the same skillet, lightly brown chicken 3–4 minutes (not fully cooked).
- In a saucepan, heat heavy cream, cream cheese, broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and remaining smoked paprika until smooth.
- Combine cabbage, chicken, and smoked paprika sauce.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish and top with mozzarella.
- Bake 20–25 minutes until bubbly and chicken is fully cooked.
- Garnish with parsley and serve.
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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