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High Protein Crack Chicken Casserole - Creamy, Cheesy, and Satisfying

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced (rotisserie works)
  • 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled (reserve a little for topping)
  • 1 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
  • 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
  • 4 ounces light cream cheese, softened (optional but ideal for richness)
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (or 2–3 tablespoons homemade)
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup shredded reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese (plus 1/2 cup for topping)
  • 1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella (for extra pull)
  • 1 cup steamed broccoli florets (small pieces)
  • 1/2 cup diced green onion (reserve some for garnish)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Olive oil spray for the baking dish

Method
 

  1. Heat the oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
  2. Prep the chicken: If using rotisserie, remove skin and bones, then shred or dice. Aim for bite-size pieces so every forkful has a good mix.
  3. Blend the creamy base: In a large bowl, whisk Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, and cream cheese until mostly smooth. Stir in chicken broth to loosen the mixture.
  4. Season it up: Add ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper. Remember, bacon and cheese add salt too.
  5. Fold in the good stuff: Stir in chicken, broccoli, green onion, crumbled bacon (save a tablespoon for topping), 1 cup cheddar, and mozzarella until evenly coated.
  6. Transfer and top: Spoon the mixture into the prepared dish. Smooth the top, then sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar and a pinch of black pepper.
  7. Bake: Bake for 22–28 minutes, until the edges bubble and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
  8. Rest and garnish: Let it rest 5–10 minutes so it sets. Top with reserved bacon and a handful of green onion.
  9. Serve: Scoop into bowls as is, or serve over cauliflower rice, quinoa, or a small portion of whole-grain pasta for extra carbs.