Go Back

Keto Chicken Caprese Casserole – A Fresh, Low-Carb Comfort Classic

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken: 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
  • Cherry or grape tomatoes: 3 cups, halved (or 1 can crushed tomatoes, drained well)
  • Fresh mozzarella: 8 ounces, sliced or torn
  • Fresh basil: 1 cup loosely packed, torn or sliced
  • Garlic: 3–4 cloves, minced
  • Olive oil: 3 tablespoons
  • Balsamic vinegar: 1–2 teaspoons (optional, see note on keto)
  • Tomato paste: 1 tablespoon (optional, for richer sauce)
  • Italian seasoning: 2 teaspoons
  • Red pepper flakes: 1/2 teaspoon (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper: to taste
  • Parmesan cheese: 1/3 cup, finely grated
  • Butter: 1 tablespoon (optional, for browning or richness)

Method
 

  1. Prep the oven and pan: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Season the chicken: Pat chicken dry. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning. For extra moisture, drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil.
  3. Sear for flavor (optional but recommended): Heat a large skillet over medium-high. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil and the butter. Sear chicken 2–3 minutes per side until lightly golden. Transfer to the baking dish. This step boosts flavor and reduces baking time.
  4. Make the tomato mixture: In a bowl, combine tomatoes, garlic, remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, tomato paste (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss well to coat.
  5. Layer the casserole: Scatter half the tomato mixture over and around the chicken. Add half the basil. Top with half the mozzarella.
  6. Add optional balsamic: Drizzle 1–2 teaspoons balsamic over the tomatoes and chicken if using. Keep it light to maintain low carbs.
  7. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 15 minutes.
  8. Finish with cheese: Remove, add remaining tomatoes and mozzarella. Sprinkle Parmesan on top.
  9. Broil for golden edges: Return to the oven for 8–10 more minutes, or until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internally and the cheese is melted and lightly browned. If needed, broil on high for 1–2 minutes.
  10. Rest and garnish: Let it rest 5 minutes. Scatter the remaining basil on top. Taste and adjust seasoning.