Introduction
Are you searching for a keto-friendly dish that combines comfort and health? Look no further than this oven-baked keto chicken divan with veggies! This recipe is not only low in carbohydrates but also packed with flavor and nutrients. With tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy sauce, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a classic dish while adhering to your keto lifestyle.
Chicken divan is traditionally made with broccoli and a creamy sauce, topped with cheese and breadcrumbs. However, in this keto version, we replace breadcrumbs with a mixture of cheese and almond flour to keep it low-carb and gluten-free. This dish is perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or even as a comforting meal on a chilly evening.
Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and learn how to make it step by step!
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add broccoli and cauliflower florets, and blanch for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, cream cheese, chicken broth, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
- In a large casserole dish, layer the shredded chicken evenly on the bottom.
- Add the blanched broccoli and cauliflower on top of the chicken.
- Pour the cream mixture over the chicken and vegetables, ensuring everything is well coated.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the almond flour, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. This will create the topping.
- Sprinkle the almond flour mixture evenly over the casserole.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your oven-baked keto chicken divan with veggies!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This oven-baked keto chicken divan with veggies is incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or even mushrooms. The creamy sauce complements the chicken and veggies perfectly, making it a delightful meal for everyone, whether they are on a keto diet or not.
Additionally, this recipe is a great way to use leftover chicken. If you have rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken on hand, it saves time and makes preparation even easier. This dish also keeps well, so you can enjoy it for lunch the next day or freeze it for later.
Tips for Perfecting Your Chicken Divan
1. **Use Quality Ingredients**: The flavor of this dish largely depends on the quality of your ingredients. Opt for organic chicken and fresh vegetables whenever possible.
2. **Don’t Overcook the Veggies**: When blanching the broccoli and cauliflower, ensure they remain slightly crunchy. They will cook further in the oven, and you don’t want them to become mushy.
3. **Adjust the Seasoning**: Taste the cream mixture before pouring it over the chicken and veggies. You can adjust the seasoning to your preference, adding more garlic or spices if desired.
4. **Experiment with Cheeses**: While cheddar and Parmesan are delicious, feel free to mix in other cheeses such as mozzarella or gouda for different flavors.
Serving Suggestions
This oven-baked keto chicken divan pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed green beans for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside a low-carb bread or cauliflower rice for added texture. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or hot sauce to your plate.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
For longer storage, this dish freezes well. Just ensure it is completely cooled before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned above.
FAQs
Can I make this chicken divan dairy-free?
Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream and cream cheese with coconut cream and a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor if desired.
What can I use instead of almond flour?
If you’re allergic to nuts or prefer not to use almond flour, you can use coconut flour or crushed pork rinds as a topping. Keep in mind that coconut flour absorbs more moisture, so you may need to adjust the amount used.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This oven-baked keto chicken divan is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare it ahead of time, portion it out, and store it in the fridge or freezer for easy meals throughout the week.
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add more vegetables to this dish. Zucchini, asparagus, or even artichoke hearts would be great additions. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly if using different veggies.
Conclusion
This oven-baked keto chicken divan with veggies is a fantastic way to enjoy a comforting meal while sticking to your keto diet. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a dish that can please the whole family. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal prep option, this recipe has you covered. So grab your ingredients and get ready to whip up a delicious, healthy meal that everyone will love! Enjoy!
