Keto Garlic Mushroom Chicken Casserole

Name: Keto Garlic Mushroom Chicken Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (Rotisserie chicken can save time.); 2 cups mushrooms, sliced (Use cremini or button mushrooms for earthy flavor.); 1 cup heavy cream (For richness and creaminess.); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (For topping.); 4 cloves garlic, minced (For aromatic flavor.); 2 tablespoons olive oil (For sautéing.); 1 teaspoon dried thyme (For herbal note.); to taste Salt and pepper (Season generously.)

Posted on January 6, 2026

Keto Garlic Mushroom Chicken Casserole served in a dish

Chicken Recipes

Easy Keto Garlic Mushroom Chicken Casserole

There’s something about cozy casseroles that feels like an embrace when you serve them at the dinner table. I can almost smell the bubbling, cheesy goodness right now, all thanks to this delightful recipe for Keto Garlic Mushroom Chicken Casserole. Picture this: a weeknight after a long day, the sun just dipping below the horizon, leaving a warm golden glow in your kitchen. That’s the magic moment I first discovered this dish, and honestly, it’s been a household savior every since!

I can remember the first time I attempted to whip up this casserole; to be real, it was like trying to tame a teenage dragon. I misread the heavy cream as half-and-half and didn’t think to sauté my mushrooms long enough. Spoiler alert: the casserole was more like a chicken blob instead of the creamy masterpiece I’d envisioned. The second attempt, though? A total game-changer. I learned to take my time, savor the aromas swirling around, and embrace my kitchen chaos. It was during this kitchen escapade that I realized this recipe wasn’t just about the food; it’s about making memories.

What sets this particular casserole apart is the combo of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and the luscious creaminess of heavy cream – plus, it’s all topped with oodles of melted cheddar cheese. Just thinking about it makes me want to dive headfirst into the dish! Not to mention, it’s low in carbs, high in flavor, and packed with protein. Who knew healthy comfort food could taste this good? Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of why this dish will steal the spotlight on your dinner table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: Why spend hours in the kitchen when you can have a delicious meal ready in under 40 minutes? Seriously, this is an easy weeknight dinner dream come true.
Leftovers for Days: Trust me, this casserole tastes even better the next day. The flavors deepen overnight, and you’ll find yourself dreaming about lunch.
Picky Eater Approved: Is there a soul on this planet who could resist gooey cheese and chicken? I think not!
Budget-Friendly: Using rotisserie chicken can cut costs, while still delivering high-quality flavor.
Meal Prep Winner: Honestly, it’s fantastic for meal prepping. With a little planning, you have a healthy option prepped and ready to go.
Comfort in a Bowl: Each bite feels like a hug, and that’s something we can all get behind.

What Makes This Recipe Special?

One of the standout features of this casserole is the aromatic garlic that dances in harmony with the minced mushrooms. When sautéing them, the scent wafts through your kitchen, teasing your taste buds and prepping them for a flavorful experience. The heavy cream, oh, the heavy cream! It melds everything together so beautifully, creating a rich, velvety texture that sings comfort food, all while being kind to your waistline.

Add in a generous dose of cheddar cheese, and you have a dish that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. It’s easy to forget that you’re sticking to your keto meal plan while indulging in a bowl of cheesy goodness!

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Rotisserie chicken can save you time and effort. Look for ones with no added sugars or preservatives for a healthier option.
2 cups mushrooms, sliced: I love using cremini or button mushrooms for their earthy flavor. Don’t skip the mushrooms—they add an essential depth and texture.
1 cup heavy cream: This is where the magic happens! Full-fat cream brings richness and creaminess that lighter options just can’t compete with.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Seriously, is there anything better than melty cheese? It forms that decadent topping that makes this dish irresistible.
4 cloves garlic, minced: You can never have too much garlic, am I right? Its aromatic charm is essential for flavor.
2 tablespoons olive oil: A healthy fat to sauté your garlic and mushrooms. Don’t skimp on this ingredient—it’s vital for flavor.
1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a lovely herbal note. Fresh thyme would be fantastic, but dried works in a pinch!
Salt and pepper to taste: Always make sure to season generously! You want everything to shine.

Pro Tip

If you’re counting macros, use a low-sodium chicken broth instead of the heavy cream to create a lighter version, though it won’t have that luscious texture. On the flip side, if you have a dairy sensitivity, coconut cream can be a lovely alternative, just be aware it will slightly alter the flavor.

How to Make It Step-by-Step

Let’s get cookin’! Follow me through this delicious journey.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). It’s like getting your cozy blanket warmed up before settling in for a movie night—important!

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

Grab your trusty skillet and place it over medium heat. Add your olive oil and let it heat up for about a minute. Then toss in the minced garlic and sauté until it’s fragrant. This usually takes about 1-2 minutes, and oh—those aromatic notes can make you feel like a gourmet chef! Just don’t let it burn. Burnt garlic is basically the kitchen’s way of telling you “Oops! You messed up!”

Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms

Now, add your sliced mushrooms. Cook them until they soften up, about 4-5 minutes. You want them to release all their moisture—this adds so much depth to your casserole. The sizzling sound as the mushrooms hit the skillet is music to my ears! Just be sure to stir occasionally to avoid any sticking (unless you like that charred look—no judgment here).

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooked chicken, sautéed mushrooms, heavy cream, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, and dried thyme. Don’t forget to sprinkle some salt and pepper! Stir everything together until it’s all coated in that creamy goodness. At this point, you just might want to taste the mixture. I won’t tell anyone if you sneak a bite (okay, I might!).

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the delectable mixture into a greased baking dish. I like a 9×13 dish—it holds all the cheesy goodness nicely! Smooth it out with a spatula to ensure even cooking. You want to shout, “Look at this beautiful creation!” to anyone within earshot.

Step 6: Add Cheese Topping

Now, it’s time for the pièce de résistance—top with the remaining cheddar cheese. Be generous! Life’s too short for skimpy cheese.

Step 7: Bake Until Bubbly

Pop the dish in your preheated oven and let it bake for about 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You’re looking for a bubbly, golden hue on top. That irresistible aroma will start to fill your home, and trust me, that’s something you want!

Step 8: Cool & Serve

Once it’s done, let your casserole cool for a few moments. You’ll want to avoid those kitchen rush-hour burns. Then, serve it up hot and watch everyone’s eyes light up.

And there you have it, my friends! Each bite bursts with flavor, and the creaminess makes you want to wrap yourself in a cozy blanket.

Tips for Best Results

Go Fresh: If possible, use fresh herbs rather than dried ones. In this case, fresh thyme will elevate your dish.
Cheese Variety: Don’t feel limited to cheddar! Try gouda or pepper jack for an adventurous spin.
Add Flavors: For an extra boost, add a splash of white wine to your mushrooms as they cook if that’s permissible in your kitchen—nothing too strong, just a dash to enhance those earthy flavors.

Ingredient Substitutions & Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous or need to cater to dietary restrictions, here are a few swaps:

Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free cheese blend.
Vegetarian Version: Ditch the chicken for cooked lentils or your favorite beans. Just make sure to season them to taste!
Seasonal Twist: Add chopped spinach or kale if you’re feeling green! They’ll wilt beautifully as they bake.

Directions

Simply follow the processes outlined, and enjoy a dish that pairs beautifully with a side salad or some roasted veggies. This would easily accompany a glass of sparkling water with a lemon twist!

If you’re anything like me, this casserole plus a good rom-com equals a perfect night in!

Pairing Ideas (Drinks, Sides, etc.)

Salad: A crisp, fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a great companion!
Drink: A chilled sparkling water or a light white wine could nicely complement the creaminess of the casserole.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Let’s be honest, leftovers are often the very best part! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When re-heating, cover with foil to keep the moisture in and warm it up in the oven until heated through. Microwaving works too! Just remember to cover it to avoid that rubbery texture.

Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips

Want to prep ahead of time? You can assemble the casserole and keep it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

If you want to freeze it, consider putting the unbaked casserole in a freezer-safe dish. Just make sure to wrap it tightly! To cook later, thaw it overnight in the fridge before popping it in the oven.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Crowding the Skillet: When cooking your mushrooms, don’t overcrowd the pan. They need space for their moisture to escape, and crowded mushrooms are sad, steamed mushrooms.
Skipping Seasoning: Honestly, season generously! It makes a massive difference in how your dish turns out.
Not Letting It Cool: Resist the urge to dive in too soon—let it cool slightly to avoid a cheesy lava flow when you scoop.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use fresh chicken?

Absolutely! If you prefer raw chicken, simply cook and shred it before adding it to the casserole. Just add it to the mixture without pre-cooking it, as it will bake through during cooking.

What if I don’t have mushrooms?

No worries at all! Try swapping in other veggies like cauliflower or broccoli for a delightful taste without sacrificing texture.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Use coconut cream and a vegan cheese substitute to keep it creamy but dairy-free.

Cooking Tools You’ll Need

Large mixing bowl
Skillet
Baking dish
Spatula
Cutting board and knife for chopping

Final Thoughts

This Easy Keto Garlic Mushroom Chicken Casserole not only fills your tummy but warms your heart. Food truly is a love language, and this dish is a letter filled with comfort and care. I hope it brings you the same amount of joy it’s brought to my family. So go ahead, embrace the chaos in the kitchen, and don’t forget to share your version with your friends and family.

If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to save it on Pinterest or share it with a friend! And remember, cooking is not just about the recipe; it’s about the stories and memories we create along the way. Happy cooking!