Introduction
If you’re on a ketogenic diet and looking for a meal that the whole family will enjoy, look no further than this family-friendly keto chicken broccoli alfredo oven recipe. This dish is not only low in carbs but also rich in flavor, making it the perfect choice for those busy weeknights when you want something satisfying yet healthy. With tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy alfredo sauce, it’s a delicious way to stay on track with your keto lifestyle.
In this article, I will guide you through the steps to create this mouthwatering dish, along with tips for meal prep and variations to suit your family’s taste. Let’s dive into this flavorful recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the broccoli is tender but still bright green.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese until smooth. If you like a little heat, add red pepper flakes.
- Pour the cheese mixture over the chicken and broccoli in the skillet. Stir well to combine, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Top with additional mozzarella cheese if desired, then cover the dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your family-friendly keto chicken broccoli alfredo!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This keto chicken broccoli alfredo bake is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The rich, creamy sauce pairs perfectly with the tender chicken and crisp-tender broccoli, creating a satisfying dish that feels indulgent without the carbs. It’s an excellent way to incorporate more vegetables into your family’s diet, and the flavors are universally appealing. Plus, it’s easy to make, which means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal together.
Meal Prep Tips
For those who love to meal prep, this recipe is perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare the chicken and broccoli mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days before baking. Just add the cheese sauce right before you pop it in the oven. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or when you’re hosting friends and family.
Additionally, you can freeze this dish before baking. Just assemble everything in a freezer-safe dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and then aluminum foil. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Variations to Consider
While this keto chicken broccoli alfredo bake is delicious as is, there are several ways to customize it to suit your family’s preferences. Here are a few ideas:
– **Add Other Vegetables**: Feel free to include other low-carb vegetables like cauliflower, spinach, or bell peppers.
– **Use Different Proteins**: Swap out the chicken for shrimp or sausage for a different flavor profile.
– **Spice It Up**: If your family enjoys a bit of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is filling on its own, but if you’re looking to round out the meal, consider serving it with a simple side salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar. This adds freshness and complements the creamy alfredo beautifully. You can also serve it with a keto-friendly bread or rolls for dipping in the extra sauce.
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, they’re easy to store! Place any remaining chicken broccoli alfredo in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. The flavors will continue to meld, making the leftovers just as delicious as the first serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just be sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the dish to avoid excess moisture.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead of time and either refrigerate or freeze it before baking.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free cheese alternatives to make this recipe dairy-free.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to be considered fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Conclusion
This family-friendly keto chicken broccoli alfredo oven recipe is a game-changer for busy households looking to maintain a low-carb lifestyle. With its rich flavors, creamy texture, and ease of preparation, it’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Try it tonight and watch your family rave about this delicious dish! Don’t forget to save and share this recipe with your friends on Pinterest!
