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High Protein Buffalo Chicken Bake - A Simple, Satisfying Weeknight Meal

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Cooked chicken (about 4 cups shredded; from rotisserie, poached, or baked)
  • Buffalo wing sauce (3/4 cup; choose your preferred heat level)
  • Plain nonfat Greek yogurt (1 cup)
  • Light cream cheese (4 oz, softened)
  • Liquid egg whites (1/2 cup) or 3 large egg whites
  • Reduced-fat shredded mozzarella (1 1/2 cups)
  • Shredded sharp cheddar (1/2 cup)
  • Garlic powder (1 tsp)
  • Onion powder (1 tsp)
  • Smoked paprika (1/2 tsp)
  • Black pepper (to taste)
  • Kosher salt (to taste; go light because sauces and cheese are salty)
  • Celery (3 stalks, diced)
  • Carrots (2 medium, diced) or 1 cup matchstick carrots
  • Green onions (4, thinly sliced)
  • Blue cheese crumbles (optional, 1/4 cup for topping)
  • Olive oil (1 tbsp for sautéing)
  • Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
  • Ranch or blue cheese dressing (optional drizzle; choose light if preferred)

Method
 

  1. Preheat and prep the pan. Heat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a thin layer of olive oil.
  2. Cook the veggies. Warm 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced celery and carrots with a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté 5–7 minutes until slightly softened. Remove from heat and let cool a bit.
  3. Make the creamy buffalo base. In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, light cream cheese, egg whites, buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Taste and adjust heat with more buffalo sauce if needed.
  4. Add the chicken and veg. Fold in the shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, and half the green onions. Mix until everything is evenly coated.
  5. Layer in the dish. Spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle evenly with the mozzarella and cheddar.
  6. Bake. Place on the center rack and bake for 22–28 minutes, until the edges are bubbling and the cheese is melted and lightly golden. If you like a deeper color, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching closely.
  7. Finish and garnish. Let the bake rest for 5 minutes. Top with remaining green onions and a light sprinkle of blue cheese crumbles if using. Add a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing for extra tang, or serve on the side.
  8. Serve. Scoop into bowls or plates. It’s great on its own or over cauliflower rice, brown rice, or a bed of shredded lettuce for a buffalo “bowl” vibe.