Jump to Recipe Print RecipeA comforting dish that brings both nostalgia and nourishment to the dinner table, this High-Protein Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole takes your favorite party dip to new heights. With a creamy, dreamy texture and a protein-packed punch of 47 grams per serving, it’s perfect for anyone looking to savor a wholesome meal without sacrificing flavor. Busy weeknights call for meals that are not only quick to prepare but also filling, and this casserole truly delivers on both fronts. You’ll find yourself whipping it up again and again, whether for family dinners or casual gatherings. Curious to learn how to create this delightful fusion of comfort food and healthy ingredients? Let’s dive into the recipe! Why is this casserole a must-try? Nourishing Comfort: This High-Protein Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole transforms a beloved dip into a satisfying dinner, ensuring everyone leaves the table content. Protein-Packed Delight: With an impressive 47 grams of protein per serving, it’s perfect for health-conscious eaters. Quick Preparation: Whip it up in no time—ideal for hectic weeknights when you’re short on time but still crave a home-cooked meal. Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize! Swap chicken for turkey or add your favorite veggies to suit your taste. Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is guaranteed to impress both family and friends, making it a staple for gatherings. You’ll love how it pairs beautifully with a light salad or some crusty bread. High-Protein Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole Ingredients • Dive into flavor with each ingredient, creating a deliciously healthy dish your family will adore! For the Casserole • Cottage Cheese – Provides creaminess and boosts protein content. (4% fat preferred for better texture) • Garlic Cloves – Adds aromatic flavor. (Fresh cloves recommended for best taste) • Kosher Salt – Enhances the flavor of all ingredients. (Adjust to taste) • Black Pepper – Adds mild heat and depth. (Freshly ground recommended) • Onion Powder – Contributes a savory taste. (Can substitute with chopped fresh onion) • Avocado Oil or Olive Oil – Used for cooking the chicken, providing healthy fats. (Can substitute with any neutral oil) • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast – The main protein source. (Can be replaced with turkey for a leaner option) • Low-Moisture, Part-Skim, Finely Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Melting cheese that adds gooeyness to the casserole. (Substitute with cheddar for a different flavor) • Finely Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds a nutty, salty kick. (Can skip if desired) • Canned Artichoke Hearts – Provides texture and a signature flavor. (Rinse and drain to reduce tanginess) • Frozen Chopped Spinach – Serves as the nutritious green component. (Can use fresh spinach after wilting) Step‑by‑Step Instructions for High-Protein Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole Step 1: Prep Chicken Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Season the boneless, skinless chicken breast with kosher salt and allow it to rest for about 20 minutes. This short brine enhances the chicken’s moisture while it cooks. Once rested, this high-protein chicken will be set for a succulent finish in your casserole. Step 2: Prepare Veggies As the chicken rests, squeeze the excess moisture from the canned artichoke hearts and chop them into bite-sized pieces. Do the same with the frozen chopped spinach after thawing, using a dish towel to wring out any liquid. Properly prepared vegetables prevent your High-Protein Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole from becoming watery. Step 3: Cook Chicken Heat avocado oil or olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the cubed chicken breast, seasoning it with freshly ground black pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until the chicken is mostly cooked through and golden brown. Remove it from the heat and set aside for the next steps. Step 4: Make Cheese Blend In a food processor, combine the cottage cheese, fresh garlic cloves, and a pinch of kosher salt, black pepper, and onion powder. Blend the mixture until it’s smooth and creamy, creating a rich, velvety base for your casserole. This cheese blend not only adds flavor but also increases the protein content in your High-Protein Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole. Step 5: Combine Ingredients In a spacious baking dish, layer the cooked chicken, squeezed spinach, chopped artichokes, and your creamy cheese blend. Sprinkle in ⅔ of the finely shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese, ensuring everything is evenly distributed. This will make for a deliciously cheesy interior once baked, creating the ultimate comforting dish. Step 6: Bake Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and evenly spread the remaining cheese over the top. Bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, watching for a bubbly and golden crust that shimmers with melted cheese. Step 7: Optional Broil Finish For an extra crispy topping, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on it to achieve that delightful golden finish without burning. This final touch enhances the rich flavor and texture of the High-Protein Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole, making it even more irresistible. High-Protein Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole Variations Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own! Each twist will add exciting new flavors and textures that your family will adore. Turkey Swap: Substitute chicken with turkey for a leaner protein option that complements the casserole’s flavor beautifully. This small switch keeps things light, while still offering that satisfying taste you love. Fresh Spinach: Use fresh spinach instead of frozen for a vibrant, garden-fresh taste. Simply wilt it down with a dash of olive oil beforehand for an extra dose of nutrition. Crunchy Topping: Top the casserole with crushed gluten-free crackers or panko for a delightful crunch. A crispy layer adds a fun textural contrast to the creamy interior. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper or diced jalapeños! This little boost of heat will awaken your taste buds and give the casserole an exciting twist. Mixed Veggies: Incorporate bell peppers or mushrooms to enhance flavor and nutrition. This adds a colorful flair while contributing extra vitamins to your healthful meal. Dairy-Free Delight: Use cashew cheese or a plant-based cream alternative for a delicious dairy-free version. You’ll find that it still brings the creamy goodness you expect in each bite. Extra Cheese: Go for a cheesier casserole by mixing in a variety of cheeses like gouda or fontina. With this rich combination, each spoonful will be even more indulgent! Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a fragrant finish, enhancing the overall flavor profile. A sprinkle on top not only beautifies the dish but brings a burst of freshness to every bite. As you explore these variations, don’t forget that meals like this, reminiscent of my favorite Honey BBQ Chicken dish, invite creativity in the kitchen. And if you’re a fan of comforting casseroles, you might also enjoy my creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken. Enjoy your culinary adventure! What to Serve with High-Protein Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole Make your family dinner complete with delightful accompaniments that elevate every bite of this comforting casserole. Garlic Bread: This warm, crispy delight adds a buttery crunch, perfect for scooping up any cheesy goodness left on your plate. Mixed Greens Salad: A light, refreshing salad tossed with a zesty vinaigrette offers a vibrant contrast to the rich and creamy casserole. Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini provide a savory, slightly sweet flair that complements the casserole’s flavors beautifully. Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb twist, this fluffy side mimics traditional rice while adding a nutritious element, soaking up the casserole’s delicious sauce. Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty and hearty, quinoa pilaf enhances protein content while offering a wonderfully complementary texture and flavor. Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc will cut through the richness, balancing the meal while elevating the dining experience. Fruit Sorbet: For dessert, a refreshing, fruity sorbet offers a light, palate-cleansing finish to this hearty meal, perfect for lingering flavors. Make Ahead Options These High-Protein Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casseroles are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance; just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to keep all the flavors fresh. For even better texture, be sure to squeeze out excess liquid from the spinach and artichokes, which prevents the casserole from becoming watery. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake it from the fridge without needing to adjust the cooking time! This way, you’ll serve up a delicious, filling meal with minimal effort, making weeknight dinners a breeze! How to Store and Freeze High-Protein Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheating is easy; just microwave or place in the oven for a few minutes until heated through. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, heat in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. This High-Protein Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole stays delicious! Room Temperature: Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing. Avoid leaving out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety. Expert Tips for High-Protein Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole Dry Brine Chicken: Seasoning the chicken ahead of time locks in moisture, ensuring a juicy and tender bite in your casserole. Straining Vegetables: Always squeeze out excess liquid from spinach and artichokes to prevent your High-Protein Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole from becoming watery. Broiling for Finish: A brief broil at the end creates a beautifully toasted cheese crust, enhancing both flavor and texture. Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate. Just add a bit more baking time when you’re ready to cook it! Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, creating a unique spin on the classic recipe while boosting nutrition. High-Protein Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole Recipe FAQs What type of chicken is best for this casserole? Absolutely! I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breast for the best flavor and protein content. You can also substitute it with turkey for a leaner option or even tofu for a meat-free dish. Just ensure the protein is cut into bite-sized cubes for even cooking. How do I store leftovers? I often store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, where they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you find yourself with more than you can eat, feel free to freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. This way, you can savor this delightful casserole for later! Can I freeze the casserole? Yes, you can freeze the High-Protein Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole! After assembling it, cover it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. What should I do if the casserole is too watery? If you notice excess liquid, this usually comes from the spinach and artichokes. To prevent this from happening, make sure to squeeze out any excess water from both the spinach and artichokes before combining them with other ingredients. Also, don’t skip the step of using frozen and thawed spinach, as fresh spinach releases more moisture during cooking. Is this dish suitable for people with gluten allergies? Very! This High-Protein Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole is naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice for anyone with gluten sensitivities. Just be sure to double-check that any additional ingredients or alterations you make are also gluten-free, especially if you’re adding sauces or condiments. High-Protein Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole Delight This High-Protein Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole offers a nourishing and comforting meal packed with flavor and 47 grams of protein per serving. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 50 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Casserole2 cups Cottage Cheese 4% fat preferred for better texture3 cloves Garlic Cloves Fresh cloves recommended for best taste1 tsp Kosher Salt Adjust to taste1 tsp Black Pepper Freshly ground recommended1 tsp Onion Powder Can substitute with chopped fresh onion2 tbsp Avocado Oil or Olive Oil Can substitute with any neutral oil1 lb Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast Can be replaced with turkey for a leaner option2 cups Low-Moisture, Part-Skim, Finely Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Substitute with cheddar for a different flavor1 cup Finely Grated Parmesan Cheese Can skip if desired14 oz Canned Artichoke Hearts Rinse and drain to reduce tanginess10 oz Frozen Chopped Spinach Can use fresh spinach after wilting Equipment large baking dishfood processorlarge pan Method Step-by-Step Instructions for High-Protein Spinach and Artichoke Chicken CasserolePreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Season the chicken breast with kosher salt and allow it to rest for about 20 minutes.Squeeze excess moisture from the canned artichokes and chopped frozen spinach after thawing.Heat avocado oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken, seasoning with black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side.In a food processor, combine cottage cheese, garlic, salt, black pepper, and onion powder. Blend until smooth.In a baking dish, layer the cooked chicken, squeezed spinach, chopped artichokes, and cheese blend. Sprinkle ⅔ of the mozzarella and Parmesan.Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil, add remaining cheese, and bake uncovered for 10 more minutes.For an extra crispy topping, broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, keeping an eye to prevent burning. Nutrition Serving: 1casseroleCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 47gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 95mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 650mgFiber: 5gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 3mg NotesSeasoning the chicken ahead of time locks in moisture, ensuring a juicy and tender dish. Strain excess liquid from vegetables to prevent a watery casserole. Assemble the casserole a day in advance for convenience. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!