Keto Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole offers a delicious and satisfying twist on a beloved classic. This recipe cleverly adapts the traditional dish to fit a ketogenic lifestyle, eliminating the carb-heavy breading and substituting low-carb alternatives to create a creamy, cheesy, and intensely flavorful casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Forget the guilt, embrace the indulgence!
What Makes This Keto Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Different?
Traditional Chicken Cordon Bleu relies heavily on breading and often incorporates creamy potato-based casseroles. Our Keto version swaps these carb-laden components for healthier, lower-carb alternatives, resulting in a dish that’s both delicious and keto-friendly. We use almond flour for a light, crispy texture and focus on rich, savory flavors to compensate for any perceived lack of breading.
Keto Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide
**(Yields: 6-8 servings) **(Prep time: 20 minutes) (Cook time: 35 minutes)
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly pounded
- 8 slices deli ham (ensure it's low in sugar)
- 8 slices Swiss cheese
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Prepare the chicken: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound to 1/4 inch thickness.
- Assemble the Cordon Bleu: Layer a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese onto each chicken breast. Roll up tightly and secure with toothpicks.
- Prepare the almond flour coating: In a shallow dish, combine almond flour, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the chicken: Roll each chicken roll in the almond flour mixture, ensuring it's evenly coated.
- Arrange in baking dish: Place the coated chicken rolls in the prepared baking dish.
- Make the creamy sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and melted butter. Pour evenly over the chicken rolls.
- Top with cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken and sauce.
- Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest: Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Remove toothpicks before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Gruyere, provolone, or a blend of your favorite cheeses would work well.
How can I make this casserole ahead of time?
You can assemble the casserole up to the point of baking and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
What are some good side dishes to serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs well with low-carb vegetables like roasted asparagus, broccoli, or cauliflower mash. A simple green salad is also a great accompaniment.
Is this recipe truly keto-friendly?
Yes, this recipe is designed to be keto-friendly, keeping net carbs low. However, always check the nutritional information of your ingredients, especially the ham and cheese, to ensure they fit within your daily macro targets.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole before or after baking. Let it cool completely before freezing. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven until warmed through.
Tips for Success
- For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of dried herbs like thyme or rosemary to the almond flour coating.
- Don't overcrowd the baking dish, as this can prevent the chicken from cooking evenly.
- If you prefer a crispier topping, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
This Keto Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy a comfort food classic while staying on track with your ketogenic diet. Enjoy!
