Christmas dinners shouldn’t mean ditching your healthy habits – trust me, I learned this the hard way after one too many holiday food comas! This Christmas Healthy High-Protein Chicken Broccoli Casserole became my saving grace when I needed something both festive and nourishing. It’s packed with 30g of protein per serving but still feels indulgent with its creamy, cheesy goodness.
After testing dozens of versions (my family got very tired of being taste testers), I landed on this perfect balance of tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and just enough Greek yogurt to keep it light. What I love most? It comes together in about 30 minutes, leaving you more time for decorating cookies and wrapping presents!
Why You’ll Love This Christmas Healthy High-Protein Chicken Broccoli Casserole
Let me tell you why this casserole became my holiday staple – and why you’ll adore it too:
- Protein powerhouse: With 30g per serving, it keeps you full through gift exchanges and keeps energy high (no post-dinner naps required!)
- Festive without fuss: Golden cheese topping makes it look special, but prep takes just 10 minutes – I’ve made it in my pajamas while wrapping presents
- Guilt-free creamy: Greek yogurt gives that rich texture we crave, but with half the fat of traditional casseroles
- Kid-approved magic: Even my picky niece gobbles up the broccoli when it’s swimming in cheesy goodness
- Leftover hero: Tastes even better next day – perfect for those lazy post-Christmas breakfasts
Ingredients for Christmas Healthy High-Protein Chicken Broccoli Casserole
Here’s everything you’ll need for this protein-packed holiday miracle – I swear by these simple, fresh ingredients that come together like magic:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works brilliantly here – no shame in shortcuts during the holidays!)
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets (chop them bite-sized so they cook evenly – I like some stem pieces for extra crunch)
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (use full-fat for extra creaminess or low-fat if you’re watching calories – both work beautifully)
- 1/2 cup low-fat cheddar cheese, shredded (pre-shredded is fine, but freshly grated melts so much better)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (the real stuff, not the green can – it makes all the difference in flavor)
- 1 tsp garlic powder (my secret for that cozy, savory depth without any chopping)
- 1 tsp onion powder (trust me, this boosts the flavor big time)
- 1/2 tsp salt (I use kosher – adjust to taste if your chicken is already seasoned)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (freshly cracked if you’re feeling fancy)
How to Make Christmas Healthy High-Protein Chicken Broccoli Casserole
Okay, let’s get cooking! This casserole comes together so easily – I’ve made it half-asleep at 6 AM on Christmas morning (true story). Just follow these simple steps for creamy, protein-packed perfection every time.
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
First, grab that broccoli and chop it into bite-sized florets – I like keeping some stem pieces for texture. Shred your chicken (rotisserie works wonders here if you’re short on time). Measure out all your spices and cheeses now so everything’s ready to go. Pro tip: Do this the night before to save holiday morning sanity!
Step 2: Mix the Casserole Base
In a big bowl, toss together the chicken and broccoli. Now add the Greek yogurt – it should coat everything nicely without being soupy. Sprinkle in all those glorious spices (I usually add an extra pinch of garlic powder because… yum). Mix until everything’s evenly combined. The mixture should hold together when pressed but still look chunky.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Spread your mixture into a greased 9×13 dish and top with both cheeses. Pop it in a 375°F oven – you’ll know it’s done when the edges are bubbly and the cheese turns that perfect golden brown (about 25 minutes in my oven). Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving – this helps the flavors meld and prevents burnt tongues on Christmas!
Tips for the Best Christmas Healthy High-Protein Chicken Broccoli Casserole
After making this casserole at least two dozen times (my family practically demands it now), I’ve picked up some game-changing tricks you’ll love:
- Rotisserie chicken is your BFF: Saves SO much time during holiday chaos – just shred and go!
- Toast those breadcrumbs: For extra crunch, mix panko with melted butter and sprinkle on top before baking
- Broil for last-minute glam: If your cheese isn’t golden enough after baking, 2 minutes under the broiler works magic
- Taste before baking: Adjust spices to your preference – I often add an extra pinch of garlic powder
- Fresh lemon zest: Just 1/2 teaspoon brightens the whole dish beautifully
Ingredient Substitutions & Variations
Listen, I know holiday cooking means improvising when you’re out of something or feeding picky eaters – been there! Here are my tried-and-true swaps for this casserole:
- Sour cream for Greek yogurt: Makes it richer (though adds more fat) – perfect if you want to indulge a little
- Turkey instead of chicken: Great for using up Christmas leftovers while keeping the protein high
- Cauliflower-broccoli mix: Sneaks in extra veggies – just chop the cauliflower small so it cooks evenly
- Almond flour topping: For a keto-friendly crunch instead of breadcrumbs (brown it under the broiler)
- Dairy-free? Coconut yogurt and nutritional yeast make a surprisingly tasty alternative to cheese
Pro tip: If you change multiple ingredients, adjust baking time – more veggies may need 5 extra minutes!
Serving Suggestions for Christmas Healthy High-Protein Chicken Broccoli Casserole
Oh, let me tell you how I love to make this casserole the star of a festive yet balanced holiday spread! For a complete meal that looks gorgeous on Christmas plates, try these perfect pairings:
- Roasted sweet potatoes: Their natural sweetness plays so nicely with the savory casserole – I drizzle mine with a touch of maple syrup and cinnamon
- Quinoa pilaf: Adds extra protein and makes it feel extra special when tossed with dried cranberries and pecans
- Simple winter salad: Just baby spinach, pomegranate seeds, and a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully
- Crusty whole grain bread: Because who can resist mopping up that creamy sauce? (I certainly can’t!)
Pro tip: Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme sprigs for instant holiday elegance!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Here’s the beautiful thing about this casserole – it actually gets better as leftovers! Store any extras (if you’re lucky enough to have some) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap individual portions tightly and freeze for up to a month. When reheating, I pop it in the microwave at 50% power to prevent drying out, or bake at 350°F until heated through – about 15 minutes from fridge, 30 from frozen. Pro tip: Sprinkle a little extra cheese on top before reheating for that fresh-baked look!
Nutrition Information
Just between us? I’m not a dietitian, but I did the math so you don’t have to! Here’s the scoop on what’s in each hearty serving (about 1 cup) of this casserole:
- 220 calories – light enough for seconds!
- 30g protein – keeps you full through gift-unwrapping marathons
- 7g fat (3g saturated) – all that creaminess without the guilt
- 8g carbs (2g fiber) – leaves room for Christmas cookies
- 380mg sodium – easy to reduce if you use low-sodium chicken
Remember: Nutritional values are estimates and will vary based on your specific ingredients.
FAQs About Christmas Healthy High-Protein Chicken Broccoli Casserole
Got questions? I’ve got answers! Here are the most common things people ask me about this holiday lifesaver:
Can I make this casserole ahead?
Absolutely! That’s what makes it perfect for Christmas. Assemble it the night before (just hold the cheese topping), cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add the cheese and pop it in the oven – you might need 5 extra minutes since it’s cold.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Pretty close! Just skip the Parmesan (it has a few carbs) and use full-fat Greek yogurt. For extra keto points, sprinkle crushed pork rinds on top instead of breadcrumbs – sounds weird but tastes amazing!
How do I double the recipe?
Easy peasy! Just use a bigger baking dish (like a 15×10) and add 10 minutes to the baking time. The edges should be bubbly and the cheese golden brown. Pro tip: Rotate the dish halfway through for even cooking.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
You bet! Just thaw and pat it dry first – otherwise you’ll get a watery casserole. I actually prefer fresh for texture, but frozen works in a pinch during holiday chaos.
What if I don’t have Greek yogurt?
No sweat! Sour cream works beautifully (though it’s higher in fat), or you can blend cottage cheese until smooth. Even mayo mixed with a splash of milk will do in a real pinch!
30g Protein Christmas Chicken Broccoli Casserole You’ll Crave
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A healthy and protein-packed casserole perfect for Christmas dinner. This dish combines tender chicken with fresh broccoli in a creamy sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup low-fat cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix chicken, broccoli, Greek yogurt, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle cheddar and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake for 25 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for quicker prep.
- Swap Greek yogurt with sour cream for a richer taste.
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American