Introduction
If you are on a keto diet and looking for a delicious, comforting meal, look no further than this Air Fryer Keto Chicken Divan recipe. This dish brings together tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a creamy cheese sauce, all prepared in the convenience of your air fryer. Not only is this recipe low in carbs, but it is also packed with flavor and incredibly easy to make. In just under an hour, you can enjoy a satisfying dinner that the whole family will love.
Chicken divan is a classic casserole dish that typically features chicken and broccoli in a creamy sauce, often topped with cheese. This keto-friendly version eliminates unnecessary carbs while maintaining all the rich flavors you crave. Plus, using the air fryer not only speeds up the cooking process but also gives the chicken a beautiful, crispy texture.
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or just looking to whip up a quick dinner, this air fryer chicken divan will quickly become a family favorite. Let’s dive into how you can make this dish at home!
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
- Add the shredded chicken and broccoli florets to the mixing bowl. Toss until everything is evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
- Transfer the chicken and broccoli mixture into an air fryer-safe baking dish or a silicone baking mold.
- Top the mixture with the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese, spreading it evenly over the top.
- Carefully place the baking dish into the preheated air fryer basket.
- Cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are golden brown.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the dish from the air fryer and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Why Use an Air Fryer?
Using an air fryer for this chicken divan recipe not only cuts down on cooking time but also results in a crispy texture that is hard to beat. The circulating hot air cooks the chicken evenly, ensuring it remains juicy while achieving a delightful golden crust on the cheese topping. The air fryer is perfect for those who want to enjoy comfort food without the guilt, as it requires little to no added fats compared to traditional oven-baking methods.
Tips for Success
To make the most out of your Air Fryer Keto Chicken Divan, consider the following tips:
1. **Use Rotisserie Chicken:** For even quicker prep time, use store-bought rotisserie chicken. Just shred it and mix it with the other ingredients.
2. **Adjust Seasonings:** Feel free to customize the seasoning blend according to your preference. Adding some cayenne pepper can give it a nice kick.
3. **Broccoli Cooking Time:** Ensure your broccoli florets are cut into small, bite-sized pieces to cook evenly with the chicken.
4. **Cheese Options:** You can substitute the cheeses used in the recipe. Cream cheese or mozzarella can also be great alternatives.
Storing and Reheating
This Air Fryer Keto Chicken Divan is perfect for meal prep. After cooking, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place individual portions in the microwave or reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
Variations
While this recipe is fantastic as is, there are plenty of ways to customize it:
– **Vegetable Add-ins:** Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to enhance the nutrition and flavor.
– **Spice it Up:** If you enjoy spicy food, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an added kick.
– **Creamy Alternatives:** Swap out heavy cream for sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist while still keeping it keto-friendly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze Chicken Divan?
Yes! You can freeze the chicken divan before or after cooking. If freezing before, make sure to let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will keep for up to 3 months.
What can I serve with Chicken Divan?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or cauliflower rice to keep it low carb. You can also serve it with zucchini noodles or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Is this recipe dairy-free?
No, this recipe contains dairy products such as heavy cream and cheese. However, you can substitute these ingredients with dairy-free alternatives to make it suitable for a dairy-free diet.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
Conclusion
This Air Fryer Keto Chicken Divan recipe is not just easy to prepare, but it also brings a comforting and satisfying meal to your table. Packed with flavor, low in carbs, and ready in under an hour, it’s perfect for any night of the week. Enjoy the creamy goodness and share this recipe with friends and family who are looking for delicious keto options. Happy cooking!
