Dolly’s 5-Ingredient Chicken Casserole
This lighter version keeps the creamy, cheesy comfort of the classic casserole while emphasizing lean protein and portion control. It’s easy to prepare, filling, and works well for meal prep.
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Total Time: About 45 minutes
Oven: 350°F (175°C)
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked skinless chicken breast, shredded
- 1 can (10.5 oz) reduced-fat cream of chicken soup
- ¾ cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
- ¾ cup reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup whole-grain crackers, crushed
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the oven and dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. This prevents sticking without adding much extra fat.
2. Prepare the creamy mixture
Add the cream of chicken soup and Greek yogurt to a large mixing bowl. Stir until completely smooth and combined. The Greek yogurt adds creaminess and extra protein without requiring a large amount of sour cream.
3. Add the chicken and cheese
Add the shredded chicken and ½ cup of the cheddar cheese to the bowl. Gently fold everything together until the chicken is thoroughly coated with the creamy mixture.
4. Transfer to the baking dish
Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it into an even layer with the back of a spoon or spatula so it cooks evenly.
5. Add the topping
Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole. Finish with the crushed crackers, distributing them across the surface for a light, crispy topping.
6. Bake
Place the uncovered casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes. It should be hot and bubbling around the edges, with the cheese melted and the topping lightly golden.
7. Rest before serving
Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for approximately 5 minutes. This gives the creamy filling time to settle and makes it easier to portion.
8. Portion for weight-loss meal prep
Divide the casserole into 6 equal servings. Pair each serving with a generous portion of steamed broccoli, cauliflower, green beans, or a leafy salad for a more filling meal.
🥦 Weight-Loss Tips
For a calorie-conscious meal, keep the serving to one-sixth of the casserole and add plenty of non-starchy vegetables. You can also reduce the cheese slightly if you want to lower the calories further.
Important: This recipe can support a weight-loss eating pattern, but no single recipe causes weight loss. Your overall calorie intake, activity, and portion sizes matter most.
