If you’re searching for a comforting dinner that brings together wholesome goodness and satisfying flavors, the High-Protein Chicken and Vegetable Casserole Recipe is an absolute winner. This dish combines tender shredded chicken, creamy cottage cheese, fresh vegetables, and a perfect blend of spices baked into a warm, golden casserole that packs in plenty of protein and vibrant nutrition. Whether you’re fueling a busy weeknight or prepping meals ahead, this casserole hits all the right notes with its rich textures and deliciously balanced taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this casserole is delightfully straightforward, but each one plays a crucial role in shaping the dish’s flavor, texture, and nutrition. From creamy dairy to fresh veggies and wholesome oats, every component adds a special touch.
- Cooked chicken breast, shredded: The star protein that delivers lean, tender bites throughout the casserole.
- Cottage cheese: Adds creaminess and a subtle tang, boosting protein content without heaviness.
- Greek yogurt: Enhances the creaminess while introducing beneficial probiotics and extra protein.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Brings savory richness and melts beautifully on top for that golden finish.
- Diced onions: Provide natural sweetness and depth once caramelized.
- Diced bell peppers: Add a pop of color and mild peppery flavor for freshness.
- Broccoli florets, steamed: Adds vibrant green color and a satisfying crunch with fiber and vitamins.
- Rolled oats: A clever binder that enhances texture while adding wholesome carbs and fiber.
- Olive oil: Brings smoothness and helps soften the vegetables during sauté.
- Garlic powder: Offers aromatic warmth without overpowering the other elements.
- Onion powder: Enhances savory notes for a deeper flavor profile.
- Ground black pepper: Adds a mild kick and balances the dish.
- Paprika: Introduces a subtle smoky undertone and beautiful color.
- Large eggs: Lock all ingredients together, creating a perfect casserole texture.
- Unsweetened almond milk: Keeps the casserole moist while keeping it light.
How to Make High-Protein Chicken and Vegetable Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Vegetables
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, heat a skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, toss in the diced onions and bell peppers. Cook them gently until they become soft and slightly caramelized, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step helps release their natural sweetness and builds a flavorful foundation for the casserole.
Step 2: Steam the Broccoli
While the vegetables are cooking, steam your broccoli florets until they’re tender but still vibrant green, roughly 4 to 5 minutes. This ensures they retain a little crunch and all their nutritional value before being mixed into the casserole.
Step 3: Combine the Main Ingredients
Grab a large mixing bowl and combine the shredded chicken breast, cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, cheddar cheese, and the cooked onions and bell peppers. Adding the steamed broccoli now will distribute the vegetables evenly across the casserole, ensuring every bite bursts with goodness.
Step 4: Mix the Wet Ingredients Separately
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the eggs and unsweetened almond milk until the mixture is smooth and homogenous. This mixture will help bind all your ingredients into a perfectly firm yet tender casserole.
Step 5: Season and Combine Everything
To the large bowl, add rolled oats along with garlic powder, onion powder, ground black pepper, and paprika. Pour the egg and almond milk mixture on top, then stir everything thoroughly until the ingredients are completely blended. This step ensures that every mouthful will be flavorful and beautifully textured.
Step 6: Bake Your Casserole
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Pop it into the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’re looking for a golden-brown top and a firm center that holds its shape when sliced. This transformation is where all the flavors meld and the vibrant colors deepen.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This resting period helps the casserole set up fully and makes serving easier. Afterward, slice it into portions and get ready to enjoy a hearty, protein-packed meal.
How to Serve High-Protein Chicken and Vegetable Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives adds a pop of green freshness that contrasts beautifully with the casserole’s warm, creamy texture. For a touch of zest, grated lemon zest enhances the overall brightness and encourages your taste buds to linger.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp garden salad or a light cucumber and tomato vinaigrette salad to balance out the richness. You can also serve it alongside steamed quinoa or whole-grain bread to add some extra fiber and texture to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual ramekins filled with this casserole for a personalized portion. Alternatively, garnish each serving with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of hot sauce to add layers of creaminess or heat. This dish also makes an excellent filling for stuffed bell peppers if you want to experiment with presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it a perfect meal prep option or quick lunch solution. Refrigerate promptly to maintain freshness and food safety.
Freezing
If you want to stash some away for longer, this High-Protein Chicken and Vegetable Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. Just place cooled portions or the whole casserole (wrapped tightly) in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes until warmed through and the top regains some crispness. You can also microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway to ensure even heating.
FAQs
Can I use different vegetables in this casserole?
Absolutely! While broccoli, onions, and bell peppers provide great flavor and nutrition, you can swap in zucchini, mushrooms, spinach, or even cauliflower to suit your taste or what’s on hand.
Is this casserole suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, it’s a fantastic meal prep option! It stores well in the fridge and freezer, and reheats easily, making it ideal for busy weeks when you want nutritious, ready-made meals.
Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Definitely. Ground turkey, cooked lean beef, or even canned tuna can work as excellent protein alternatives without sacrificing the casserole’s hearty texture.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The rolled oats may contain gluten depending on the brand, so be sure to use certified gluten-free oats if you need to avoid gluten. Otherwise, this recipe is naturally free from other gluten sources.
How can I make this casserole spicier?
To add a spicy kick, try incorporating diced jalapeños with the veggies or sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or chili flakes when mixing your spices. Hot sauce as a garnish also works wonders.
Final Thoughts
This High-Protein Chicken and Vegetable Casserole Recipe is truly a gem for anyone craving a filling, nutritious, and flavorful meal that feels homemade and comforting. Its simple steps and wholesome ingredients prove that you don’t need to complicate meals to make them delicious and satisfying. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how easily it becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen!
Print
High-Protein Chicken and Vegetable Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This high-protein casserole is a nutritious and delicious meal packed with lean chicken breast, cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, and vegetables. Enhanced with rolled oats and savory spices, it offers a wholesome blend of flavors and textures baked to perfection for a warm, satisfying dish suitable for a healthy lifestyle.
Ingredients
Protein & Dairy
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
Vegetables & Grains
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
- 1 cup broccoli florets, steamed
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
Spices & Oils
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole evenly.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once hot, add diced onions and bell peppers.
- Cook Vegetables: Cook the onions and bell peppers, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
- Steam Broccoli: While the vegetables cook, steam broccoli florets until tender, around 4-5 minutes.
- Mix Main Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken breast, cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, shredded cheddar cheese, and the cooked onions and bell peppers.
- Add Broccoli: Incorporate the steamed broccoli into the large bowl with the other ingredients.
- Prepare Wet Mixture: In a separate small bowl, whisk together eggs and unsweetened almond milk until smooth and combined.
- Add Spices and Oats: Add rolled oats, garlic powder, onion powder, ground black pepper, and paprika to the large mixing bowl with the other ingredients.
- Combine Everything: Pour the egg and almond milk mixture over the combined ingredients and stir thoroughly to ensure an even mix.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish and transfer the mixture into it, spreading out evenly with a spatula.
- Bake Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the casserole is firm in the center.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Slice the casserole into portions and serve immediately.
Notes
- You can substitute the chicken breast with turkey or tofu for variation.
- Ensure the broccoli is steamed but not overcooked to retain texture.
- Feel free to add herbs like parsley or thyme for extra flavor.
- Use full-fat or low-fat dairy products based on your nutritional preference.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
