High-Protein Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole

High-Protein Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole 🥬🍗🧀

This High-Protein Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole is a nutritious, flavorful dish that combines tender shredded chicken, nutrient-packed spinach, and tangy artichokes in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Perfect for meal prep, busy weeknights, or feeding a crowd, this casserole is as satisfying as it is wholesome. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe for health-conscious eaters and comfort food lovers alike.

Let’s dive into how to make this delicious and protein-packed casserole step by step.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. High in Protein : Packed with lean chicken, spinach, and cheese, this dish is perfect for muscle recovery or maintaining energy levels.
2. Nutrient-Rich : Loaded with vitamins and minerals from spinach and artichokes.
3. Comfort Food Made Healthy : A lighter twist on the classic spinach-artichoke dip, baked into a filling casserole.
4. Meal Prep Friendly : Great for leftovers—reheat slices throughout the week for quick meals.
5. Customizable : Add veggies, spices, or different cheeses to suit your taste.

Ingredients

(Serves 6–8)

• 1 lb chicken breast , cooked and shredded (about 2 cups )
• 1 bag (10 oz) fresh spinach , chopped (or frozen spinach, thawed and drained )
• 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts , drained and chopped
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream for extra richness )
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese , divided
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 clove garlic , minced (or ½ teaspoon garlic powder )
• Salt and pepper , to taste
• Optional : Red pepper flakes for heat
• Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing the dish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) .
2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped spinach, chopped artichoke hearts, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, ¾ cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese, and all of the Parmesan cheese.
2. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
2. Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top for a bubbly, golden finish.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes , or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese on top is melted and lightly golden.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

1. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.
2. Slice into portions and enjoy warm.

Tips for Success

1. Use Rotisserie Chicken : Save time by shredding pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breasts from scratch.
2. Drain Thoroughly : If using frozen spinach, squeeze out as much moisture as possible to prevent the casserole from becoming watery.
3. Add Veggies : Stir in diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
4. Make It Creamier : Substitute the Greek yogurt with cream cheese or Alfredo sauce for a richer texture.
5. Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze individual portions for up to 3 months.

Perfect Pairings

This High-Protein Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole pairs beautifully with:

• Crusty Bread : Serve with warm, buttery bread to soak up any extra sauce.
• Green Salad : Pair with a simple arugula or Caesar salad for a light yet satisfying meal.
• Roasted Vegetables : Roasted broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts add a healthy touch.
• Wine Pairing : Enjoy with a glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc for an elegant dining experience.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)

(Based on 8 servings)

• Calories : ~250 kcal
• Protein : ~30g
• Carbohydrates : ~8g
• Fat : ~12g
• Fiber : ~3g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.

Final Thoughts

This High-Protein Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole is a wholesome, flavorful dish that delivers on both taste and nutrition. With its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and hearty ingredients, it’s a meal that satisfies cravings while fueling your body with essential nutrients. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, hosting a family dinner, or simply craving something comforting yet healthy, this casserole has got you covered.

The best part? It’s incredibly versatile, so you can adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs. So grab your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as easy to make as it is to devour.