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Healthy Crack Chicken Casserole - Creamy, Comforting, and Lightened Up

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or poached, skin removed)
  • 1 cup plain nonfat or low-fat Greek yogurt
  • 4 oz reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (or 2 tbsp homemade)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1 cup small broccoli florets (lightly steamed or very finely chopped)
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped bell pepper (any color)
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas or corn (optional)
  • 3 slices turkey bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
  • 1/3 cup whole-wheat panko breadcrumbs (or almond meal for gluten-free)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Cooking spray

Method
 

  1. Heat your oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Lightly coat a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
  2. Make the creamy base: In a large bowl, whisk Greek yogurt, cream cheese, chicken broth, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika until smooth. Taste and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
  3. Fold in the good stuff: Stir in 1/2 cup cheddar, broccoli, bell pepper, and peas or corn if using. Mix until evenly combined.
  4. Add the chicken: Gently fold in the shredded chicken, coating it well with the sauce. Spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  5. Top it off: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar over the casserole. In a small bowl, toss panko with olive oil and a pinch of salt. Scatter the panko and the crumbled turkey bacon over the top.
  6. Bake: Place on the center rack and bake for 18–22 minutes, until hot and bubbling at the edges and the top is golden.
  7. Finish and serve: Let it rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with green onions. Serve warm with a simple side salad or roasted veggies.