High Protein Recipe

High-Protein Cheesy Chicken Nacho Casserole (Low-Carb, Family Favorite)

Updated on 4 min read

Quick Description

This High-Protein Cheesy Chicken Nacho Casserole is a savory, cheesy, and satisfying meal packed with protein and flavor! Featuring tender chicken, gooey melted cheese, and crunchy tortilla chips, this casserole is a fun twist on nachos but made into a hearty, low-carb dish. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week.

Servings & Timing

  • Serves: 6
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: ~40 minutes

Ingredients List

  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded)
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies (drained)
  • 1 ½ cups cauliflower rice (or regular rice)
  • 1 cup low-fat cream cheese
  • 1 tbsp taco seasoning
  • 1 cup crushed tortilla chips (use low-carb chips for keto)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro (optional for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×9-inch casserole dish with olive oil or non-stick spray.

2. Mix the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sour cream, diced tomatoes with green chilies, cauliflower rice, taco seasoning, and cream cheese. Stir until everything is well combined.

3. Assemble the Casserole

Spread the chicken mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Top with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.

4. Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

5. Add Chips and Bake Again

After baking, sprinkle the crushed tortilla chips on top of the casserole. Add the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese and return the casserole to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the chips are crispy.

6. Serve

Garnish with fresh cilantro (optional) and serve hot. Enjoy!

Nutrition (per serving)

Approximate values:

  • Calories: 350
  • Protein: 30g
  • Carbs: 15g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Fiber: 4g

Benefits

  • High-Protein: Each serving is packed with lean chicken and cheese, providing a protein-rich meal.
  • Low-Carb Option: With cauliflower rice and low-carb chips, this dish fits well into a low-carb or keto lifestyle.
  • Family-Friendly: Perfect for family meals, especially for picky eaters.
  • Cheesy Goodness: Who doesn’t love a gooey, cheesy casserole?

Additional Notes

  • Chip Option: If you’re on a low-carb or keto diet, use low-carb or baked tortilla chips.
  • Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare this casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Bake it when ready to serve.
  • Spicy Version: Add sliced jalapeños to the casserole before baking for a spicy kick.

Dietary Info

  • High-Protein: Yes
  • Low-Carb: Yes (with cauliflower rice and low-carb chips)
  • Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free sour cream and cheese.
  • Gluten-Free: Yes (with gluten-free chips)
  • Keto-Friendly: Yes (with the right chips)

Brief Introduction

This High-Protein Cheesy Chicken Nacho Casserole is a cheesy, indulgent dish with all the delicious flavors of nachos, but with added protein and less carbs. It’s the perfect family-friendly meal that can easily be made in advance and baked when needed.

Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

  1. Preheat the oven and grease your casserole dish.
  2. Mix shredded chicken, sour cream, tomatoes, cauliflower rice, cream cheese, and taco seasoning.
  3. Spread the mixture in the dish and top with shredded cheddar.
  4. Bake for 20–25 minutes.
  5. Add crushed tortilla chips and the remaining cheese. Bake for an additional 5 minutes.
  6. Garnish with cilantro and serve!

Ingredient Details & Substitutions

  • Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy option.
  • Cauliflower Rice: Cauliflower rice is a great low-carb alternative to regular rice. You can also use quinoa for a higher-protein version.
  • Tortilla Chips: Use baked or low-carb tortilla chips for fewer carbs.

Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions

  • Add Vegetables: Throw in some bell peppers, onions, or spinach for added veggies.
  • Spicy Version: Add some hot sauce or jalapeños for extra heat.
  • Serve with a Salad: Pair with a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Storage & Make-Ahead

  • Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze the casserole for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or beef instead of chicken?
Yes, ground turkey or beef works well as a substitute.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free cheese and sour cream for a dairy-free version.

Can I use regular rice instead of cauliflower rice?
Yes, but keep in mind that it will increase the carb content.

Optional Personal Story

I made this casserole when I wanted a comfort food dish that was still high in protein and lower in carbs. It was an instant hit with my family, and I’ve been making it regularly ever since. It’s easy, cheesy, and so satisfying!

Call-to-Action

Make this High-Protein Cheesy Chicken Nacho Casserole tonight for a low-carb, protein-packed meal that everyone will love! It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and will quickly become a favorite in your dinner rotation.

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