Creamy High-Protein Chicken Casserole

Quick Description

A warm, creamy, high-protein chicken casserole made with tender shredded chicken, melted cheese, and veggies baked together until golden. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, and family-friendly dinners. High-protein, low-carb, and ultra satisfying.


Servings & Timing

  • Servings: 6
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25โ€“30 minutes
  • Total Time: 35โ€“40 minutes
  • Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients List

Base

  • 3 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or boiled)
  • 1 cup broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 cup cauliflower rice OR diced cauliflower
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
  • ยฝ medium onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

Creamy Sauce

  • 1 cup cottage cheese (blended smooth) OR 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 4 oz softened cream cheese
  • ยฝ cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella
  • ยฝ cup parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ยฝ tsp paprika
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Topping

  • ยฝ cup shredded cheese
  • ยผ cup crushed pork rinds OR breadcrumbs (optional for crunch)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven

Set your oven to 375ยฐF (190ยฐC).


2. Sautรฉ Veggies

  • Heat oil/butter in a pan.
  • Add onion, garlic, mushrooms, broccoli, cauliflower.
  • Cook 5 minutes until softened.
  • Season lightly with salt & pepper.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce

In a bowl, mix:

  • blended cottage cheese or Greek yogurt
  • cream cheese
  • chicken broth
  • cheddar
  • parmesan
  • garlic powder
  • onion powder
  • paprika
  • salt & pepper

Mix until smooth. (Microwave 20โ€“30 sec if you need it to blend easier.)


4. Combine Everything

In a large bowl, combine:

  • shredded chicken
  • sautรฉed veggies
  • creamy sauce

Mix until everything is coated.


5. Assemble the Casserole

  • Transfer mixture into a greased baking dish.
  • Smooth the top.
  • Add shredded cheese and optional crunchy topping.

6. Bake

Bake for 25โ€“30 minutes, or until:

  • golden
  • bubbly
  • edges are slightly crisp

7. Garnish & Serve

Top with chopped parsley and let cool 5 minutes before serving.


Nutrition (approx per serving)

(for 6 servings)

  • Calories: 320
  • Protein: 38g
  • Carbs: 6โ€“8g
  • Fat: 15โ€“17g
  • Fiber: 1โ€“2g

Benefits

  • High-Protein: Cottage cheese, chicken, and mozzarella add lean protein.
  • Low-Carb: Perfect for Keto, WW, and high-protein lifestyles.
  • Family-Friendly: Creamy, cheesy, and comforting.
  • Meal Prep Approved: Stores and reheats wonderfully.
  • Customizable: Add any veggies or seasoning.

Additional Notes

  • Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
  • Add spinach, peas, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra volume.
  • Replace cream cheese with extra Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
  • Want extra creaminess? Add ยผ cup heavy cream.

Recipe Variations

Buffalo Chicken Casserole

Add ยผ cup buffalo sauce + blue cheese.

Mexican Chicken Casserole

Add taco seasoning + corn + cheddar.

Pizza Chicken Casserole

Add pepperoni + Italian seasoning + mozzarella.


Storage & Meal Prep

  • Fridge: 4 days
  • Freezer: 2 months
  • Reheat: Oven or microwave, add splash broth if needed.

FAQs

Q: Can I use uncooked chicken?
A: Noโ€”chicken must be cooked before adding.

Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Yes! Use dairy-free cheese and coconut cream instead of cottage cheese.

Q: Can I add pasta?
A: Absolutely โ€” add 2 cups cooked pasta for a full chicken pasta bake.