This Paleo Barbecue Chicken Casserole is healthy, comforting and fulfilling. Flavorful barbecue sauce combines with tender chicken and crispy bacon to make an ultimate meal! Whole30, gluten free, dairy free and incredibly delicious!
The first time I made this is was completely random. I had some of my barbecue sauce that needed to be used up and also had a spaghetti squash needing to be used. I threw the two together with some cooked chicken and it came out so good. Then I actually made it using measurements, adding bacon and wow- amazing!! I actually used Beef Bacon from US Wellness Meats and was so impressed with not only the flavor, but the ingredients. It's hard to find bacon without added sugar, but they have some and it's truly delicious! I highly recommend trying it!
If you're familiar with barbecue chicken pizza, that's where I got my inspiration. It always has red onions, bacon, and chicken- such a great combination! I took all those flavors and ingredients and packed them into a healthy casserole that is so satisfying and tasty.
This dish does take a little bit of time to prep, but it's so worth it. I often hear people say they get bored on a Whole30, or that their meals have no flavor. Well, this meal definitely isn't boring or lacking flavor. And it is just as good reheated the next day.
My Paleo Buffalo Chicken Casserole has quickly become one of my most popular recipes- you guys love it and I love seeing so many people make it! I think you'll love this one just as much. There is so much flavor, it makes a ton (great for leftovers) and it's Whole30 compliant. Yay! Just make sure to use a clean barbecue sauce- here is the link to my paleo barbecue sauce and I've also seen one by Tessemae's sold at Whole Foods that is Whole30.
Why Eggs?
A common question I get with my other casseroles is why the eggs? They are just for binder- spaghetti squash is quite watery and the casserole wouldn't hold together as well without them. Yes, you can leave them out, but it probably won't cut as well or be pretty. I know some people can't have them due to allergies or sensitivities, so they aren't crucial for the taste, just the texture.
This casserole is hearty and packed with flavor! You will love it!
I have a post on the easiest, best way to cook spaghetti squash, for my step-by-step tutorial including making it in the Instant Pot in just 8 minutes. Or if you're looking for more spaghetti squash recipes there is my Baked Spaghetti, Buffalo Chicken Casserole, and Tuna Noodle Casserole.
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Paleo Barbecue Chicken Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 large spaghetti squash, cooked and shredded
- 1 pound bacon, divided
- 1 red onion, diced
- 2 pounds chicken breast, cut into bite sized pieces
- 1 ½-2 cups paleo bbq sauce
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- salt to taste depends on how salty the bbq sauce is
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 3 large eggs
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400° and line a 13x9 with parchment paper.
- Place cooked spaghetti squash in a large bowl and pat dry with paper towel.
- Cut bacon with scissors and place in a large skillet. Cook on medium/high until crispy. Remove half onto a plate and add onion and chicken to remaining bacon.
- Cook until onion is tender and chicken is cooked through.
- Add chicken mixture to the spaghetti squash and then add the barbecue sauce. Start with 1 ½ cups and add more if needed. Add the pepper, salt if needed, and garlic powder. Stir until everything is mixed well.
- Add the eggs, stirring completely.
- Place mixture into prepared pan, top with remaining bacon and bake 30-35 minutes.
Jessica V says
This did not turn out like the picture above...I followed the recipe exactly, yet I ended up with a horrible, watery mess. Has no one else ran into this problem? I am super disappointed!
Jessica DeMay says
Hi Jessica- I'm sorry this happened. Spaghetti squash can be watery, but it shouldn't be a runny mess. Did you use the eggs to help hold it together? I hope it was still ok to eat.
Diane says
This recipe is fantastic! I will be making it for the next two covered dish dinners I'll be going to!
Jessica DeMay says
Thanks, Diane! I'm so glad you like it and will be sharing it!
Lisa says
This was delicious! I used my own bbq sauce, and only added 1 cup. It was perfect. I've never eaten spaghetti squash before, and it was delicious on its own. Thank you!
Jessica DeMay says
You're welcome, Lisa! Thanks for trying it- I'm so glad you enjoyed it!
Gwen says
How long is the prep time for this dish? I hope to make it tonight and want to give myself enough time. Looks delish!
Jessica DeMay says
Hi Gwen- I'm so sorry I didn't get back with you last night. The squash takes about 30 minutes to cook, you can be making the bbq sauce during that time if you are making it homemade. You can also be prepping the rest of the recipe during that time- cooking the bacon and chicken, etc. Once the squash comes out- shred it and add the rest of the ingredients. It bakes for 30-35 minutes. So I'd say a little over an hour total. I like to break it up if I can, but it will be worth it! Hope you liked it!
Gwen says
How many people will this casserole serve? I am single and looking to start pa;eo, but am struggling to find recipes for only one person. Thanks in advance!
Jessica DeMay says
Hi Gwen- this makes quite a bit. I'd say 6 generous servings. I do know people have made it and froze part of it successfully if that helps at all.
Gwen says
Thank you so much! It definitely does help!
Jessica DeMay says
You're welcome!
Allissa says
Made this last night and it was SO GOOD! Husband and I both agree that this one will get thrown into the regular rotation. And I cut down on cooking time by cooking the squad in my instant pot.
Jessica DeMay says
Yay! I'm so glad to hear that, Allissa! Thanks for trying my recipe and I love that you made it in the IP! I'll have to try that!
Coryn says
Mine also ended up a little runny. Although I pressed dry the spaghetti squash, maybe I didn't do it enough.
I am not planning to order the US Wellness meats for my Whole30 so the alternative I've found is to buy proscuitto and crisp it in the oven. Worked great!
Thank you for the recipe!
Jessica DeMay says
You're welcome, Coryn! I'm sorry it came out runny! Did you add the eggs? That should help. I love your idea of prosciutto on top. You can use any bacon you want (that's sugar free) not just the one I recommend. Thank you for trying my recipe and for the great feedback!
Amy @ These Wild Acres says
Eek this looks so good! I've been meaning to make my own bbq sauce... this looks like a great excuse to!
Jessica DeMay says
Thank you, Amy! Homemade bbq sauce is so good!
Amy says
Any idea on nutrition facts for this dish?
Jessica DeMay says
Hi Amy- I'm sorry, but I don't calculate nutrition facts. There are many places online you can use to help figure it out if you want. My Fitness Pal is one I know of.
Gretchen says
What is beef bacon???
Jessica DeMay says
Hi Gretchen- it's bacon made from cows. It's linked if you click on it. Very delicious and a great alternative to pork bacon- also no sugar added.