Carnivore Chicken & Bacon Casserole

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Cooking Intensity Easy
Dietary Info Keto, Gluten-Free, Grain-Free, Low-Carb, Carnivore
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Ingredients
2 lbs (approx. 1 kg) boneless, skinless chicken thighs

1 lb (450g) thick-cut bacon, chopped

4 tbsp (½ stick) unsalted butter

1 cup (120g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (optional, for strict carnivores)

4 large eggs

1 cup (240ml) heavy cream (or bone broth for a less rich version)

2 tsp garlic powder (optional, omit for strict carnivore)

1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, omit for strict carnivore)

Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste (omit pepper for strict carnivore)

Note on Strict Carnivore: A strict carnivore diet excludes dairy and spices. For a 100% strict version, omit the cheese, cream, and all spices. Use only chicken, bacon, butter (or tallow/lard), eggs, and salt. The result will still be incredibly juicy and flavorful.

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Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bacon
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats, chop the raw bacon into 1-inch pieces. In a large, cold oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan, place the bacon and turn the heat to medium. This allows the fat to render slowly, resulting in crispier bacon. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the bacon is browned and crispy. Using a slotted spoon, remove the bacon and set it on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave the rendered bacon fat in the skillet. This liquid gold is the flavor foundation of our casserole.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Pat the chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels—this is crucial for getting a good sear. Season both sides generously with salt and (if using) pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Increase the heat under the bacon-fat-filled skillet to medium-high. Carefully place the chicken thighs in the hot fat, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. You may need to do this in two batches.

Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, until a beautiful golden-brown crust forms. The chicken will not be cooked through at this point. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Base
Reduce the heat to low. Add the butter to the skillet and let it melt, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon—these bits are packed with flavor. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk the eggs and heavy cream (or bone broth) together until well combined. If you’re using the optional cheese, you can stir about half of it into this cream mixture.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Arrange the seared chicken thighs in a single layer in the skillet (or transfer everything to a 9×13 inch casserole dish if your skillet isn’t large enough). Pour the creamy egg mixture evenly over the chicken. Sprinkle the crispy bacon pieces and the remaining shredded cheese (if using) over the top.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the skillet or casserole dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the top is puffed, golden brown, and the casserole no longer jiggles in the center when you shake the pan. The internal temperature of the chicken should read 165°F (74°C) on an instant-read thermometer.

Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the proteins to relax and reabsorb the juices, making the chicken even more tender and making it easier to slice and serve. Scoop out generous portions, ensuring everyone gets plenty of chicken, bacon, and that rich, savory “sauce” from the bottom.

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Nutrition Information
(Please note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients used. This estimate includes the optional cheese and cream.)

Serving Size: ⅙ of the recipe
Calories: 782
Total Fat: 61g
Saturated Fat: 27g
Cholesterol: 425mg
Sodium: 980mg
Total Carbohydrates: 3g
Net Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 56g

Macronutrient Ratio (approximate): 70% Fat, 29% Protein, 1% Carbohydrate

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Tips, Tricks, and Storage
Meal Prep Marvel: This casserole is a perfect make-ahead meal. Let it cool completely, then portion it into airtight containers. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or a 350°F (175°C) oven until warm.

Freezing Instructions: You can freeze this casserole for up to 3 months. Wrap the entire cooled casserole dish tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or freeze individual portions. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Customize Your Fat: Feel free to substitute the butter with beef tallow, duck fat, or lard for a different flavor profile.

Crispy Topping: For an extra-crispy top, broil the casserole for the final 2-3 minutes of cooking. Watch it closely to prevent burning!

Don’t Skip the Sear: Searing the chicken is a non-negotiable step for depth of flavor. It creates a Maillard reaction that adds a complex, savory taste you can’t get from boiling or baking alone.

We hope you love this ultimate Carnivore Chicken & Bacon Casserole. It’s proof that the most satisfying meals are often the simplest. Enjoy!