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protein chicken rice casserole

Protein Chicken Rice Casserole

This protein chicken rice casserole is warm, filling, and easy to make. It’s packed with chicken, rice, and creamy cheese, baked until golden. A simple one-dish meal that works great for busy nights or meal prep.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked chicken shredded or diced
  • 1 cup cooked rice white or brown
  • 1 cup cottage cheese or plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or mozzarella
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
Optional:
  • ½ cup chopped spinach or broccoli
  • Chili flakes to taste

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a medium baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, add the cooked chicken, cooked rice, cottage cheese, chicken broth, and half of the shredded cheese. Mix gently.
  3. Heat olive oil or butter in a small pan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until soft, about 3–4 minutes.
  4. Add garlic, paprika, salt, pepper, and dried herbs. Stir for 30 seconds, then remove from heat.
  5. Add the onion mixture to the bowl. Mix everything until combined.
  6. Pour the mixture into the baking dish and spread it evenly.
  7. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
  8. Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, until bubbly and lightly golden.
  9. Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Rotisserie chicken works great and saves time.
  • Let the casserole rest before cutting so it holds together better.
  • For a lower-carb version, swap rice with cauliflower rice.
  • This dish reheats well and is good for meal prep.