Introduction
Are you looking for a delicious and easy meal prep option that fits within your ketogenic diet? Look no further than this Crockpot Keto Chicken Divan! This comforting casserole is not only low in carbohydrates but also rich in flavor and nutrients. With tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy cheese sauce, it’s a dish the whole family can enjoy. Plus, using a crockpot makes the cooking process effortless, allowing you to focus on other tasks while your meal simmers to perfection.
Meal prepping is a fantastic way to ensure you have healthy, homemade meals ready to go during the week. This recipe is designed for batch cooking, making it easy to portion out servings for lunches or dinners. Whether you’re a seasoned keto dieter or new to the lifestyle, this dish will quickly become a favorite. Let’s dive into how you can make this delightful meal.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
Instructions
- Start by preparing the chicken breasts. Season them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This will help enhance the flavors of the dish.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, chicken broth, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard. Stir well until fully combined.
- Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken in the crockpot, ensuring that the chicken is well-coated.
- Add the fresh broccoli florets on top of the chicken mixture, spreading them evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the broccoli, allowing it to melt beautifully as it cooks.
- If you’re using paprika, sprinkle it on top for an added layer of flavor.
- Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6 hours. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together perfectly.
- Once the cooking time is up, check that the chicken is cooked through and tender. You can shred the chicken directly in the crockpot using two forks for a more rustic texture.
- Give everything a good stir to combine the broccoli and sauce with the chicken before serving.
- Serve hot and enjoy! You can pair it with a side salad or over cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
Meal Prep Tips
Meal prepping this Crockpot Keto Chicken Divan is straightforward. Once the dish is cooked, allow it to cool slightly before portioning it into airtight containers. This recipe yields about six servings, making it perfect for lunch or dinner throughout the week. Store it in the refrigerator for up to five days, or freeze it for longer storage.
When reheating, you can use the microwave or oven. If using the oven, cover the dish with foil to prevent it from drying out. The rich, creamy sauce will keep the chicken moist and flavorful, even after reheating.
Why Choose Keto?
The ketogenic diet focuses on reducing carbohydrate intake while increasing healthy fats. This shift in macronutrients helps many individuals achieve weight loss, increased energy levels, and improved mental clarity. Dishes like this Crockpot Keto Chicken Divan are not only satisfying but also align with your dietary goals.
This recipe incorporates healthy fats from the heavy cream and mayonnaise, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied. The protein from the chicken supports muscle maintenance, making it an ideal meal choice for those looking to lose weight without sacrificing nutrition.
Variations of Chicken Divan
While this recipe is a classic, there are various ways you can customize your Crockpot Keto Chicken Divan to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few ideas:
1. **Add Other Vegetables**: Incorporate vegetables such as cauliflower, asparagus, or bell peppers for added nutrients and color.
2. **Change the Cheese**: If you prefer a different flavor, try using mozzarella or pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.
3. **Spice It Up**: For those who enjoy a little heat, add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the creamy sauce.
4. **Switch the Protein**: While chicken is a staple, you can also use cooked turkey or even shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. However, you may need to increase the cooking time by about an hour to ensure they are fully cooked.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free cheese alternative to make this dish dairy-free.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze for up to three months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Can I use a different cooking method?
Yes! If you don’t have a crockpot, you can bake this dish in the oven at 350°F for about 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly.
Conclusion
Crockpot Keto Chicken Divan is a fantastic meal prep option that combines convenience with delicious flavors. With minimal effort, you can create a hearty dish that fits perfectly into your ketogenic lifestyle. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch or dinner, this creamy casserole will satisfy your cravings while keeping you on track with your health goals.
Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to share your experience on social media! Happy cooking!
