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High protein spinach artichoke chicken casserole baked dish

High Protein Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole

A comforting, high-protein casserole made with cottage cheese, chicken, spinach, and artichokes, perfect for gluten-free home cooking.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Gluten-Free
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 16 oz Cottage Cheese (4% milkfat preferred) The heart of the casserole's creaminess.
  • 2 cloves Garlic, peeled Fresh garlic for savory flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt, plus more to taste Used for seasoning the chicken.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper, plus to taste Freshly ground for flavor.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Onion Powder Savory background note.
  • 1 teaspoon Avocado Oil or Olive Oil For cooking the chicken.
  • 1 lb Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast, cut into bite-sized pieces Lean and protein-rich.
  • 1/2 cup Low Moisture, Part Skim, Finely Shredded Mozzarella Cheese, plus extra for topping Melts nicely without becoming greasy.
  • 2/3 cup Finely Grated Parmesan Cheese, divided Adds a nutty, savory depth.
  • 1 can (16 oz) Artichoke Hearts, drained Canned in water or brine.
  • 6 oz Frozen Chopped Spinach, thawed Well drained for best results.
  • pinch Crushed Red Pepper Flakes, optional For some heat.
  • Fresh Herbs (parsley, basil, or chives), optional To garnish.
  • Sliced Green Onions, optional for garnish For a crisp, oniony finish.
Optional Add-ons
  • Lemon Zest Brightens flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard For a subtle tang.
  • few tablespoons Gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers For a crisp topping.
  • small handful Chopped Roasted Red Peppers For sweetness and color.
  • splash Chicken Broth, gluten-free If filling feels too thick.

Method
 

Preheat and Rest the Chicken
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Let them rest for about 20 minutes.
Drain and Prepare Greens and Artichokes
  1. Drain and chop the artichoke hearts if needed.
  2. Thaw and thoroughly drain the spinach.
Cook the Chicken
  1. Heat oil in a skillet and cook chicken until nearly done, about 8-10 minutes.
Make the Cottage Cheese Base
  1. Blend cottage cheese, garlic, black pepper, onion powder, and salt until smooth.
Combine the Filling
  1. Fold together chicken, artichokes, spinach, and cottage cheese mixture.
  2. Stir in some shredded mozzarella and Parmesan.
Bake
  1. Transfer filling to a greased baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 20 minutes.
  2. Remove foil, add remaining cheeses, and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes.
Rest and Finish
  1. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
  2. Garnish with green onions and fresh herbs.

Notes

This casserole is forgiving and can be adapted with various ingredients. It can also be frozen for later use.