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

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced (rotisserie or poached works well)
  • 8 ounces light cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup nonfat or 2% plain Greek yogurt
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth (or milk), for thinning
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 ounce), or 3 tablespoons homemade ranch seasoning
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • 4–6 slices center-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled (about 1/2 cup)
  • 1/2 cup chopped green onions (plus extra for garnish)
  • 1 cup steamed or blanched broccoli florets (optional, for extra fiber and texture)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Cooking spray, for the baking dish
  • Optional topping: 1 cup lightly crushed high-protein chips or whole-grain crumbs for crunch

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
  2. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add Greek yogurt and whisk until combined and creamy.
  3. Stir in the ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Whisk in the chicken broth a little at a time until the mixture is smooth and scoopable, not runny.
  4. Fold in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar, half of the bacon, and half of the green onions. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
  5. Add the chicken and broccoli (if using). Mix until everything is evenly coated with the creamy ranch mixture.
  6. Spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar.
  7. If you like a crunchy top, sprinkle on the crushed chips or crumbs now.
  8. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the casserole is hot and bubbling at the edges and the cheese is melted.
  9. Remove from the oven and top with the remaining bacon and green onions. Let it rest for 5 minutes to set slightly before serving.