High-Protein Creamy Chicken Alfredo Bake
This High-Protein Creamy Chicken Alfredo Bake is rich, cheesy, and satisfying while being packed with lean protein. Made with chicken, Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, and protein-rich pasta, it’s a healthier take on classic Alfredo that’s perfect for meal prep or a comforting family dinner.
Ingredients
For the Bake
- 12 oz (340 g) high-protein pasta (or whole wheat pasta)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets, lightly steamed
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
- 1 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ cup milk (add more if needed for a thinner sauce)
Optional Garnishes
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Red pepper flakes
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, Parmesan cheese, milk, sautéed garlic, Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, broccoli, Alfredo sauce, and ½ cup of the mozzarella cheese. Toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup mozzarella cheese over the top.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
- Let the bake rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with parsley, extra Parmesan, or red pepper flakes if desired.
Tips
- Blend the cottage cheese until completely smooth for a silky Alfredo sauce.
- Rotisserie chicken is a convenient time-saving option.
- Add spinach, mushrooms, or peas for extra vegetables.
- For an even crispier topping, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end of baking.
Serving Suggestions
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
- Roasted asparagus
- Steamed green beans
- Mixed garden salad
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheat: Microwave individual portions or bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes, adding a splash of milk if needed to maintain creaminess.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: Approximately 430 calories per serving
Protein: Approximately 40–45 g per serving