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Plated serving of Low-Carb Chicken Kohlrabi Casserole, showing layers of tender kohlrabi, spinach, and chicken with a golden baked top.

Low-Carb Chicken Kohlrabi Casserole

Creamy, flavorful, and packed with veggies, this low-carb casserole is a comforting dish you’ll want to make again and again.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 lbs kohlrabi (about 56), peeled and sliced 1/4-inch thick
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1/4-inch strips
  • 6 oz onion, halved lengthwise and thinly sliced
  • 6 oz baby spinach, chopped
  • 2 tbsp ghee or extra virgin olive oil, divided
  • 46 cloves garlic, minced, divided
  • 2 tsp ground caraway seeds, divided (plus extra for sprinkling)
  • 1 1/2 tsp ground cumin, divided (plus extra for sprinkling)
  • 2 tsp sea salt, divided
  • 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 1/2 cups full-fat coconut milk (12 oz)
  • 3 tbsp Dijon mustard (1.5 oz)

Instructions

Steam the Kohlrabi

Steam the sliced kohlrabi in a steamer pot for 15–20 minutes, until tender but not mushy. Alternatively, use a pressure cooker (such as an Instant Pot): cook on high pressure for 3–5 minutes, then quick release. Be careful not to overcook—the slices should be fork-tender but still hold their shape.

Preheat Oven

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175°C).

Sauté Chicken

In a medium skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of ghee or extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 2–3 minutes, until translucent. Add the chicken along with ½ teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of ground caraway, ½ teaspoon of ground cumin, and half of the garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes—no need to cook the chicken all the way through, as it will finish baking in the oven.

Prepare Coconut Milk Mixture

In a small bowl, whisk the coconut milk, Dijon mustard, remaining garlic, 1½ teaspoons of ground caraway, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Mix until well combined.

Assemble the Casserole

Once the kohlrabi is steamed, transfer it to a large bowl and toss with the remaining 1 tablespoon of ghee. In a large baking dish (about 9×13 inches), begin layering:

  • First layer: kohlrabi slices, lightly seasoned with a pinch of salt, ground caraway, and cumin.
  • Second layer: sautéed chicken.
  • Third layer: more kohlrabi, again lightly seasoned.
  • Fourth layer: chopped spinach, lightly salted.
  • Final layer: remaining kohlrabi, seasoned with another pinch of salt, caraway, and cumin.

Add the Sauce

Pour the coconut milk mixture evenly over the layered casserole. Tilt the dish gently from side to side so the sauce seeps through all layers.

Bake the Casserole

Bake uncovered for 45–55 minutes, until the top is lightly golden and the sauce is mostly absorbed. If you’re adding cheese, sprinkle grated Gouda or cheddar over the top about 15–20 minutes before the baking time is up, then return to the oven to melt and lightly brown.

Notes

Tips For The Best Flavor & Substitutions

  • Steam the kohlrabi first for a tender, potato-like texture—don’t skip this step!
  • Short on time? Use a pressure cooker (like an Instant Pot) for 3–5 minutes on high pressure, then quick release.
  • Missing potatoes? Use sliced potatoes for the top layer and keep kohlrabi on the bottom and middle layers.
  • Add cheese if desired: Gouda or cheddar pairs beautifully—add it during the last 15–20 minutes of baking.
  • Prefer pork? Thinly sliced pork loin can be used instead of chicken.
  • Season every layer lightly with salt, caraway, and cumin for bold, balanced flavor.
  • Use high-quality ingredients—organic veggies and pasture-raised or biodynamic options whenever possible.

Time Saving Tips

  • Steam the kohlrabi in advance and store in the fridge for up to 2 days.
  • Pre-slice the kohlrabi, onion, and chicken the night before.
  • Assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate—just bake before serving.

Serving Suggestions

  • Enjoy on its own or pair with a leafy green salad.
  • Garnish with fresh herbs or chopped green onions for extra brightness.

Storage Tips

  • Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop until warmed through.

Final Notes

This cozy casserole has brought me comfort for years, and I hope it brings the same joy to your table. Whether you stick to the veggie-loaded version or add your own twist, don’t forget to savor every creamy, flavorful bite.

  • Author: Petra
  • Prep Time: 35
  • Cook Time: 50
  • Category: Lunch & Dinner