Craving the classic flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu but sticking to your keto lifestyle? This recipe delivers the cheesy, savory goodness you love without the carb overload. This keto Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a comforting, satisfying, and surprisingly easy dish perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. We'll explore how to make it perfectly keto-friendly, address common questions, and even offer some delicious variations.
What Makes This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Keto?
Traditional Chicken Cordon Bleu relies heavily on breading, which is a major no-no on a keto diet. This recipe cleverly substitutes traditional breading with almond flour and parmesan cheese, creating a crispy, flavorful crust without sacrificing your macros. We also replace the often-used white rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb, satisfying base. This ensures your meal stays within your ketogenic limits while providing a complete and delicious experience.
How Many Carbs Are in This Keto Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?
The exact carb count will vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used, but a serving of this casserole typically contains around 5-7 net carbs. Remember to always check your nutrition labels to ensure accuracy. We prioritize using low-carb alternatives throughout the recipe to keep the carbohydrate content as low as possible.
Can I Use Different Cheese in This Keto Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is classic, you can experiment with other cheeses that melt well. Consider Gruyere, provolone, or even a sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor profile. Remember, the cheese contributes significantly to the dish's richness and flavor, so choose your favorites!
Is This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it avoids any wheat-based products. However, always double-check your ingredient labels to ensure all your ingredients are certified gluten-free if you have a severe gluten intolerance. Many almond flour brands are processed in facilities that also handle wheat, so selecting a certified gluten-free option offers extra peace of mind.
How to Make This Keto Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 4 slices of deli ham, thinly sliced
- 8 slices of Swiss cheese
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 tbsp butter or ghee
- 1 small head of cauliflower, riced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Prepare the cauliflower rice: If using fresh cauliflower, rice it using a food processor or grater. Sauté the rice in butter or ghee for a few minutes until slightly tender.
- Assemble the casserole: Layer half of the cauliflower rice in the prepared baking dish.
- Create the Chicken Cordon Bleu components: Place a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese on each chicken breast. Roll up tightly and secure with a toothpick if needed.
- Bread the chicken: In a shallow dish, combine almond flour and parmesan cheese. Dip each chicken roll in the beaten eggs, then dredge in the almond flour mixture.
- Arrange the chicken: Place the breaded chicken rolls over the cauliflower rice.
- Pour in the heavy cream: Pour the heavy cream over the chicken. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bake: Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Tips for the Best Keto Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
- Thinly sliced chicken: Using thinly sliced chicken breasts ensures they cook evenly and quickly.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If your baking dish is too crowded, the casserole might not cook evenly.
- Add some spice: Consider adding a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or even some cayenne pepper for extra flavor.
This keto Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a delicious way to enjoy a comfort food favorite without derailing your ketogenic journey. Enjoy!
