If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, nutrient-packed meal that excites your taste buds and fuels your body, then this High-Protein Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole Recipe is about to become your new kitchen favorite. It’s a delightful combination of tender shredded chicken, creamy cheeses, healthy veggies, and bold garlic flavor all baked into a satisfying casserole that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week. The balance of rich textures and that warm, cheesy top makes it impossible to resist serving seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe is simple yet essential, working together to create deep layers of flavor and a hearty texture that you’ll love in every bite. From fresh greens to creamy cheeses, each component brings something special to the table.
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded: Provides a lean, high-quality protein base that holds the casserole together while keeping it filling.
- 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped: Adds a slightly tangy, tender vegetable element that pairs beautifully with the creamy ingredients.
- 1 (10 oz) package frozen spinach, thawed and drained: Packs in iron and vibrant green color without overpowering the dish.
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt: Offers a smooth tang and boosts protein content while keeping the casserole moist.
- 1 cup cottage cheese: Contributes creaminess and a mild flavor that compliments the spinach and artichokes perfectly.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Brings that gooey, melty element everyone loves on top of casseroles.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty finish that enhances depth of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses savory richness that elevates the overall taste.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Offers a subtle sweetness and rounds out the seasoning profile.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential to balance flavors and highlight the other ingredients.
How to Make High-Protein Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures a perfectly hot oven so your casserole cooks evenly and the cheese melts just right, forming that irresistible golden crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped artichoke hearts, thawed and drained spinach, Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well so the flavors blend beautifully and every bite is packed with goodness.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Then, spread the prepared chicken mixture evenly over the bottom. This even layer will bake uniformly, ensuring every scoop delivers that perfect balance of ingredients.
Step 4: Add the Cheese Topping
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the chicken mixture. These cheeses will melt beautifully, sealing in moisture while adding a rich, gooey texture and a gorgeous golden-brown finish.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the edges are hot and bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden. This bakes the flavors together while giving the top that crave-worthy crust.
Step 6: Serve Warm and Enjoy
Once out of the oven, let your casserole rest for a few minutes. This helps it set and makes serving easier. For a fresh touch, sprinkle with chopped parsley before bringing it to the table.
How to Serve High-Protein Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A handful of fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan right before serving adds a fresh, vibrant note that brightens the casserole beautifully. You can also add a few red pepper flakes if you like a slight kick.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple, crisp sides like a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables to add contrasting textures. For a heartier meal, serve alongside quinoa or brown rice to soak up any extra cheesy goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the casserole in individual ramekins for a fancy presentation or spoon it over a bed of buttery mashed cauliflower to keep it low-carb and extra creamy. It’s versatile and ready to impress on any occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a great next-day meal as well.
Freezing
If you want to prep in advance, this casserole freezes beautifully. Wrap tightly in foil or freeze in a sealed container for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to retain that bubbly cheesy top. You can also microwave individual portions, though the texture is best when reheated gently in the oven.
FAQs
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh spinach, be sure to sauté it lightly and squeeze out excess moisture before adding to keep the casserole from becoming watery.
Is it possible to make this casserole dairy-free?
You can substitute the cheeses with your favorite dairy-free alternatives and use a dairy-free yogurt, but the texture will be slightly different. Experiment with flavors you love.
Can I substitute the chicken with turkey?
Yes, shredded cooked turkey works great in this recipe and offers a similar protein boost with a slightly different flavor profile.
How spicy is this casserole?
This recipe is mild and family-friendly, but you can easily add chili flakes or hot sauce to spice it up according to your preference.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time before baking?
Definitely! Assemble the casserole and cover it tightly with foil, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.
Final Thoughts
This High-Protein Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole Recipe is one of those nourishing dishes that feels like a warm hug in each bite. It’s simple to prepare, packed with wholesome ingredients, and perfect for any day you want a tasty, filling meal without fuss. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll be a regular on your menu—your friends and family will thank you too!
Print
High-Protein Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This High-Protein Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole is a nutritious and delicious dish perfect for a hearty family meal. Combining tender shredded chicken with nutrient-rich spinach and artichokes, creamy Greek yogurt, and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, this casserole offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s baked to golden perfection, making it an easy-to-prepare, protein-packed comfort food.
Ingredients
Chicken Mixture
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 1 (10 oz) package frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the casserole evenly.
- Prepare the Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the shredded chicken, chopped artichoke hearts, thawed and drained spinach, Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute all ingredients.
- Assemble the Casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Evenly spread the prepared chicken mixture into the dish, smoothing it out for an even layer.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the chicken mixture, followed by an even layer of grated Parmesan cheese for a flavorful crust.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the cheese topping has turned golden brown.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Optionally garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm for the best flavor and presentation.
Notes
- For best results, ensure the spinach is thoroughly drained to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
- You can substitute cottage cheese with ricotta for a different texture and flavor.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat beautifully.
- Adding crushed red pepper flakes can introduce a subtle spicy kick if desired.
