Description
Keto pesto chicken cauliflower casserole delivers a Mediterranean-inspired low-carb feast packed with rich flavors and creamy textures. Saucy, cheesy goodness combines tender chicken, roasted cauliflower, and herbaceous pesto for a satisfying meal that keeps keto dieters delighted.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 450 grams / 1 pound shredded cooked chicken
Vegetables:
- 1 large head cauliflower (approximately 600 grams / 1.3 pounds), cut into florets
Dairy and Sauce:
- 180 milliliters / ¾ cup basil pesto
- 60 milliliters / ¼ cup heavy cream (double cream) or coconut cream
- 120 grams / 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
Seasonings:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Sea salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Garnish:
- Fresh basil, cut into ribbons (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the oven by heating to 200°C (400°F) and lightly coat a 23×33 centimeter (9×13 inch) baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Transform cauliflower florets by drizzling with extra virgin olive oil, then sprinkle with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, ensuring each piece is evenly seasoned.
- Distribute seasoned cauliflower across the prepared baking dish in a single layer, creating space between pieces for optimal roasting and crisp edges.
- Roast cauliflower in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, using tongs to rotate and flip the florets midway through cooking to guarantee uniform caramelization.
- Reduce oven temperature to 180°C (350°F) and prepare the mixing stage by gently folding shredded rotisserie chicken into the roasted cauliflower.
- Create a creamy sauce by whisking basil pesto with heavy cream until thoroughly combined and glossy.
- Pour the pesto-cream mixture over the chicken and cauliflower, carefully stirring to ensure complete and even coating of all ingredients.
- Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese across the top of the casserole, covering the surface with a uniform layer.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes until the cheese melts completely and develops a golden, bubbly surface.
- Optional: Garnish with delicate fresh basil ribbons just before serving to add a vibrant, aromatic finish.
Notes
- Elevate your roasting technique to ensure cauliflower maintains a perfect texture, preventing mushiness and excess water in the final dish.
- Opt for homemade pesto to unlock vibrant, fresh flavors that store-bought versions can’t match, transforming the entire casserole’s taste profile.
- Watch your baking time closely, pulling the dish when cheese reaches golden, bubbly perfection to preserve chicken’s moisture and vegetable’s integrity.
- Customize your sauce consistency by experimenting with cream levels, creating a personalized richness that suits your dietary preferences.
- Allow the casserole a brief resting period after baking, letting flavors meld and sauce settle for a more cohesive, delectable serving experience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 563 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 106mg
- Fat: 40.6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 11.8g
- Fiber: 4.7g
- Protein: 41.7g
- Cholesterol: 31mg