If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, nutrient-packed meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this High Protein Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines tender chicken cubes, crisp broccoli, and a luscious, creamy cheese topping that all come together in one delicious, satisfying bake. With a perfect balance of protein, veggies, and gooey cheese, this casserole is both wholesome and incredibly tasty, making it an ideal dish for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients for this casserole are simple, affordable, and essential to achieving its rich flavors and perfect textures. Each one plays a unique role, whether it’s the creaminess of the mushroom soup, the punch of spices, or the sharpness of cheddar melting on top.
- Trimmed Broccoli crowns (15 ounces): Adds vibrant color, crunch, and a healthy green boost.
- Chicken breast (1.5 pounds): The high-protein star of the dish, cubed for quick cooking and even distribution.
- Cream of mushroom soup (10.5 ounces): Provides a creamy base that gives the casserole its signature rich flavor.
- Low Fat Greek yogurt (8 ounces): Adds tang and creaminess while keeping the dish lighter and packed with protein.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Infuses savory depth that makes every bite more flavorful.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Enhances the savory profile with subtle sweetness and aroma.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances all the flavors perfectly.
- Cheddar cheese (2 ounces): The golden, melted topping that ties everything together with gooey goodness.
How to Make High Protein Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
The first thing to do is set your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit so it’s nice and hot when your casserole goes in. This helps the chicken cook evenly and the cheese melt beautifully into a bubbly golden topping.
Step 2: Season Your Chicken
Cut the chicken breast into 1-inch cubes to ensure every bite is tender and easy to eat. Toss the chicken thoroughly with garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. This step is crucial because it locks in flavor right before cooking.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Base
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and low-fat Greek yogurt. Stir them together until smooth and creamy. This blend is what makes the casserole super moist and gives it a tangy richness that’s better than just plain soup.
Step 4: Layer the Broccoli and Chicken
Spread the broccoli pieces evenly in an 11×17-inch baking dish. Scatter the seasoned chicken cubes over the broccoli. This layering ensures every spoonful has a perfect balance of protein and greens.
Step 5: Pour Over the Creamy Mixture
Next, spread the mushroom and Greek yogurt mixture over the broccoli and chicken. This coating keeps everything moist during baking and binds the ingredients together with a velvety texture.
Step 6: Add the Cheese Topping
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese right on top. It melts and browns in the oven, creating that irresistible cheesy crust everyone loves.
Step 7: Bake Covered, Then Uncovered
Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes to allow the chicken and broccoli to cook through. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to get the cheese golden and bubbly. This two-step baking is the secret to perfectly cooked and melty results.
Step 8: Serve It Hot and Enjoy!
Once the casserole comes out of the oven, let it rest briefly before serving. Then dig in while it’s warm and gooey for a comforting meal that satisfies both taste buds and hunger.
How to Serve High Protein Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions adds a pop of color and mild freshness to the casserole’s rich flavors. For an extra kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes works beautifully.
Side Dishes
This casserole stands out on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a fresh mixed green salad, garlic bread, or even a light quinoa pilaf. These sides provide contrast and balance without overshadowing the main dish.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish in colorful individual ramekins for a charming, portion-controlled presentation perfect for dinner parties or family meals. Alternatively, top each serving with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of hot sauce to customize the flavor experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let the casserole cool completely, then cover tightly and place in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinner reheats.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole before baking to save time on busy days. Prepare as directed, cover well with foil or airtight wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed.
Reheating
To reheat, warm in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. For a quicker option, microwave individual portions but cover loosely to maintain moisture and avoid drying out.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables instead of broccoli?
Absolutely! Cauliflower, green beans, or even asparagus work wonderfully as substitutes or additions to broccoli, adding their own textures and flavors to this high-protein casserole.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely. The High Protein Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole Recipe stores well in the fridge and the freezer, making it a fantastic meal prep option to enjoy throughout the week with minimal effort.
Can I make it dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, swap the cheddar cheese with a plant-based alternative and use coconut yogurt instead of Greek yogurt. The creamy texture might differ slightly but the flavor will still be delicious.
How can I increase the protein even more?
Adding beans or legumes like chickpeas, using extra chicken, or mixing in cottage cheese are great ways to bump up the protein content without compromising flavor or texture.
Is it okay to use fresh versus frozen broccoli?
Both work well but fresh broccoli tends to keep a better texture after baking. If you use frozen, make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in your casserole.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dish that’s both nourishing and downright delicious, the High Protein Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole Recipe is a game changer. It brings comfort food vibes with a healthful twist and is downright satisfying every time. Trust me, once you try it, this will soon become one of your go-to meals for easy, cozy dinners or hearty lunches.
Print
High Protein Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This High Protein Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is a nutritious and comforting dish, packed with lean chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy cheesy sauce enhanced with Greek yogurt for extra protein. It’s an easy-to-make oven-baked casserole perfect for a wholesome family meal that is both flavorful and satisfying.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 15 ounces broccoli crowns, trimmed and cut into small pieces
Protein
- 1.5 pounds chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
Sauce & Seasonings
- 10.5 ounces cream of mushroom soup
- 8 ounces low fat Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
Cheese
- 2 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to get it ready for baking the casserole.
- Season chicken: Cut the chicken breast into 1-inch cubes. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, and salt over the chicken pieces, then toss well to evenly coat all pieces with the seasoning.
- Prepare sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and low fat Greek yogurt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Assemble base layers: Place the trimmed broccoli pieces evenly in an 11×17-inch baking pan. Then scatter the seasoned chicken cubes evenly over the broccoli.
- Add sauce: Pour and spread the mushroom and Greek yogurt mixture evenly over the broccoli and chicken layers to cover them well.
- Top with cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top of the sauce-covered chicken and broccoli.
- Bake covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and chicken to cook through.
- Bake uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes to brown the cheese and finish cooking.
- Serve: Once baking is complete, remove the casserole from the oven and serve hot for a delicious high-protein meal.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of black pepper or paprika to the chicken seasoning.
- Make sure the chicken is cooked thoroughly before serving; internal temperature should reach 165°F.
- You may substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken soup for a different flavor.
- Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for best melting and flavor.
- This casserole can be refrigerated and reheated for up to 3 days.
