High-Protein Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole Recipe

High-Protein Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole Recipe

My weekend meal planning always includes this ultra-delicious high-protein spinach and artichoke chicken casserole that surprises everyone at the dinner table.

Comfort meets nutrition in a single skillet packed with creamy goodness.

Cheesy layers meld perfectly with tender chicken pieces nestled among vibrant greens.

Nutritionists would absolutely adore this balanced dish that feels indulgent yet supports wellness goals.

Rich, velvety textures combine with hearty proteins for a satisfying experience.

Mediterranean influences shine through each carefully crafted bite.

We bet you cannot wait to savor this incredible culinary creation that promises to become a household favorite.

What You’ll Love About the High-Protein Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole

  • Whips up a delicious, protein-packed meal in just 30 minutes with minimal prep work.
  • Combines lean chicken, nutrient-dense spinach, and creamy cheeses for a balanced, satisfying dish that supports muscle recovery and overall health.
  • Delivers a crowd-pleasing casserole that appeals to both adults and kids, transforming classic spinach and artichoke dip into a hearty main course.
  • Offers a keto-friendly option by using almond flour or pork rinds as a crispy topping, making it perfect for health-conscious eaters seeking a flavorful alternative to traditional casseroles.

Ingredients in High-Protein Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole

Protein Base:
  • Chicken: Lean protein source for the main body of the casserole, preferably shredded or diced, works well with both white and dark meat.
  • Greek Yogurt: Protein-packed creamy base that adds tanginess and moisture, opt for full-fat version for richer texture.
  • Cream Cheese: Provides rich, smooth texture and additional protein, full-fat variety recommended.
Cheese Ingredients:
  • Mozzarella, Parmesan: Melty cheeses that add depth of flavor and creamy consistency, choose freshly grated for best results.
Vegetable Components:
  • Spinach, Artichokes: Nutrient-dense vegetables that add color, flavor, and additional nutritional value, fresh or frozen options work well.
Seasoning Blend:
  • Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Salt, Black Pepper, Red Pepper Flakes: Spice blend that enhances overall flavor profile, can adjust to personal taste preferences.
Topping Ingredients:
  • Almond Flour, Pork Rinds: Creates crispy, low-carb topping with added protein and crunch, provides textural contrast to creamy base.

Cooking Up a High-Protein Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole

Step 1: Prep the Cooking Space

Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and coat it generously with cooking spray or butter. Fire up the oven to a toasty 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Whip Up the Creamy Base

In a spacious mixing bowl, blend together:
  • Greek yogurt
  • Cream cheese
  • Mozzarella cheese
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Red pepper flakes

Stir until the mixture transforms into a silky, smooth consistency.

Step 3: Combine the Protein-Packed Ingredients

Fold into the creamy base:
  • Shredded chicken
  • Chopped spinach
  • Artichoke hearts

Mix thoroughly so every morsel gets coated with the luscious sauce.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Transfer the mixture into the prepped baking dish, spreading it evenly like a cozy blanket. Sprinkle on top:
  • Extra mozzarella
  • Additional Parmesan
  • Almond flour or crushed pork rinds for a crunchy crown

Slide the dish into the waiting oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until it’s bubbling with excitement and golden around the edges.

Step 5: Serve and Savor

Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes to settle its flavors. Scoop out generous portions and enjoy the warm, comforting meal that’s packed with protein and flavor.

Tips to Make the High-Protein Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole Better

  • Customize the Protein: Swap chicken with turkey, tofu, or white fish for a delightful protein variation that keeps the dish exciting and adaptable to different dietary preferences.
  • Boost Vegetable Content: Toss in extra vegetables like roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to increase nutritional value and add more vibrant colors and textures to the casserole.
  • Control Spice Level: Adjust red pepper flakes according to your heat tolerance – reduce for mild flavor or increase for a spicier kick that tantalizes your taste buds.
  • Perfect Crispy Topping: Ensure a golden, crunchy surface by using almond flour or crushed pork rinds, which provide a low-carb alternative to traditional breadcrumbs and add extra texture.
  • Meal Prep Magic: Prepare the casserole in advance and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for quick weeknight dinners or planned meals.

Leftover Plan: Storing and Reheating the Casserole

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
  • Transfer cooled casserole to freezer-safe containers, seal tightly, and store up to 2 months for later enjoyment.
  • Preheat oven to 350F, cover dish with foil to prevent drying, warm for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
  • Place individual portions on microwave-safe plate, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to distribute warmth evenly.

Pairing Options for Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole

  • Choose a crisp, unoaked Chardonnay to complement the creamy casserole's rich texture and balance its cheesy, tangy flavors.
  • Serve with toasted sourdough crostini or garlic herb focaccia to add crunch and soak up the delicious creamy sauce.
  • Prepare a zesty arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the casserole's richness and provide a fresh, peppery contrast.
  • Sprinkle fresh chopped basil or chives on top to introduce a vibrant, green note that enhances the spinach and artichoke elements.

Casserole Variations: Spinach and Artichoke Remix Ideas

  • Dairy-Free Delight: Replace Greek yogurt and cream cheese with coconut yogurt and cashew cream. Use dairy-free mozzarella and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a plant-based version.
  • Low-Carb Option: Swap almond flour with ground pork rinds for extra crunch. Replace artichokes with zucchini or cauliflower to reduce carbohydrate content while maintaining volume.
  • Vegetarian Transformation: Substitute chicken with firm tofu, tempeh, or white beans. Add extra spinach and mushrooms for protein and texture. Use smoked paprika to enhance the savory flavor profile.
  • Mediterranean Remix: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, and fresh herbs like basil and oregano. Swap mozzarella for feta cheese and add a sprinkle of za'atar seasoning for a Mediterranean-inspired twist.

Answering FAQs for the Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole

  • What makes this chicken casserole high-protein?

The combination of chicken, Greek yogurt, cream cheese, and multiple cheese varieties provides a significant protein boost, making it ideal for those seeking high-protein meal options.

  • Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and thoroughly drain it to prevent excess moisture in the casserole, which could affect the texture.

  • Is this recipe suitable for low-carb diets?

Absolutely! The recipe uses almond flour or pork rinds as a low-carb topping, and ingredients like Greek yogurt and vegetables keep the carbohydrate content relatively low.

  • How can I make this dish more spicy?

Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the creamy mixture. You can also sprinkle some cayenne pepper on top before baking for an extra kick of heat.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
High-Protein Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole Recipe

High-Protein Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 11 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Protein-packed spinach and artichoke chicken casserole delivers comfort and nutrition in one delightful dish. Creamy textures blend with savory chicken, promising a satisfying meal that nourishes both body and soul.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein and Meat:

  • 3 cups cooked shredded chicken

Vegetables and Base Ingredients:

  • 1 (14 ounces/396 grams) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
  • 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped

Cheese and Dairy:

  • ½ cup Greek yogurt
  • 4 ounces (113 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • ¼ cup shredded mozzarella
  • ¼ cup Parmesan cheese

Seasonings and Topping:

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 2 tablespoons almond flour or crushed pork rinds

Instructions

  1. Warm the culinary workspace by heating the oven to a toasty 375F (190C), simultaneously preparing a 9×13-inch baking vessel with a light grease coating.
  2. Craft a luxurious creamy foundation by whisking Greek yogurt, cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes into a velvety, uniform mixture.
  3. Introduce shredded chicken, finely chopped spinach, and tender artichoke pieces into the creamy blend, gently folding until each ingredient is lavishly embraced by the sauce.
  4. Elegantly transfer the harmonious mixture into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the surface for even distribution.
  5. Crown the casserole with an additional sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan, then dust with almond flour or crushed pork rinds to create a tantalizingly crisp golden topping.
  6. Slide the dish into the preheated oven, allowing the flavors to meld and the surface to transform into a bubbling, golden masterpiece over 20-25 minutes.
  7. Retrieve the casserole and permit it to rest briefly, allowing the intense flavors to settle, then serve this protein-packed delight while still warm and inviting.

Notes

  • Customize protein sources by swapping chicken with turkey, shredded tofu, or plant-based alternatives for varied dietary needs.
  • Enhance nutrition by incorporating additional vegetables like roasted bell peppers or cauliflower to boost vegetable content and flavor complexity.
  • Reduce dairy for lactose-sensitive individuals by using dairy-free cream cheese alternatives and nutritional yeast instead of traditional cheeses.
  • Prep ahead by assembling the casserole in advance and refrigerating up to 24 hours before baking, which helps develop deeper flavors and saves cooking time.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 610 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 8 g
  • Cholesterol: 40 mg
Jessica Martinez

Jessica Martinez

Pastry Chef & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Organic Baking Techniques, Gluten-Free Recipe Development, Southwestern Dessert Specialties, Food Styling and Photography

Education

Santa Fe Community College (SFCC)

  • Program: Certificate in Patisserie
  • Focus: Cultivating disciplined kitchen preparation for a safe, organized, and sanitary workstation; mastering the timely production of nutritious, visually appealing pastries; safely operating standard pastry equipment; and honing core patissier techniques for professional pastry work.

Jessica brings the sweet side to Urban Organic with her passion for baking and love for the Southwest. She trained at Santa Fe Community College and has built a career creating beautiful, gluten-free, and organic desserts that feel both nostalgic and new.

She believes baking should be fun, creative, and open to everyone, no matter your diet or skill level. Jessica’s recipes are simple enough to follow, but special enough to remember.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star