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Crack Chicken Protein Casserole - Creamy, Cheesy, and Packed With Protein

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Cooked shredded chicken (about 4 cups; rotisserie or poached breasts)
  • Plain Greek yogurt (1 cup; 2% or nonfat)
  • Reduced-fat cream cheese (8 oz, softened)
  • Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (2 cups, divided)
  • Turkey bacon or center-cut bacon (6–8 slices, cooked and crumbled)
  • Ranch seasoning mix (1 packet or about 2–3 tablespoons)
  • Low-sodium chicken broth (1/2 cup)
  • Frozen riced cauliflower (16 oz; thawed and well-drained) or cooked quinoa (2 cups) for a heartier base
  • Chopped green onions (1/2 cup)
  • Garlic powder (1 teaspoon)
  • Onion powder (1 teaspoon)
  • Black pepper (to taste)
  • Salt (to taste; go light if your ranch mix is salty)
  • Optional add-ins: steamed broccoli florets, diced bell peppers, baby spinach, or canned diced green chiles
  • Optional toppings: crushed baked potato chips, extra bacon, or chopped parsley
  • Olive oil spray (for greasing the dish)

Method
 

  1. Preheat and prep: Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
  2. Cook your bacon: Crisp the bacon in a skillet and set aside to cool. Crumble into small pieces. If using turkey bacon, cook until nicely browned for best flavor.
  3. Soften and mix the base: In a large bowl, whisk the softened cream cheese, Greek yogurt, chicken broth, and ranch seasoning until smooth. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
  4. Add the protein and veg: Fold in the shredded chicken, half the green onions, and half the cheddar. If using riced cauliflower or quinoa, mix it in now. Add optional veggies if you like.
  5. Layer and top: Spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and most of the crumbled bacon over the top (save a little for garnish).
  6. Bake: Place on the center rack and bake for 20–25 minutes, until the edges bubble and the cheese is melted and golden in spots.
  7. Finish and rest: Remove from the oven. Let it rest for 5–10 minutes to set. Garnish with the remaining bacon and green onions. Taste and adjust salt if needed.
  8. Serve: Scoop generous portions. It pairs well with a crisp salad, roasted green beans, or garlic asparagus.