Easy Chicken & Waffle Breakfast Casserole for Busy Mornings

Looking for a breakfast dish that’s indulgent yet fits within your healthy eating goals? This Chicken & Waffle Breakfast Casserole combines the comfort of crispy chicken and fluffy waffles with a lighter, guilt-free twist. Perfect for weekend brunches, meal prep, or holiday mornings, this casserole is packed with protein and flavor while keeping your points in check.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• 6 frozen whole-grain waffles, toasted and cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
• 1/2 cup low-fat shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup diced green onions (optional for garnish)

For the Egg Mixture:

• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or skim milk)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Syrup Drizzle:

• 1/4 cup sugar-free maple syrup

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2. Toast the waffles until crisp, then cut them into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
3. Cook and shred the chicken, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper.

Assemble the Casserole

1. Spread the waffle pieces evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
2. Layer the shredded chicken on top of the waffles.
3. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the chicken layer.

Make the Egg Mixture

1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the eggs, almond milk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the casserole, ensuring it soaks into the waffles.

Bake the Casserole

1. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the casserole is set and lightly golden on top.

Add the Final Touches

1. Drizzle the sugar-free maple syrup over the top of the casserole just before serving.
2. Garnish with diced green onions for an extra pop of flavor (optional).

Nutritional Information

(Per Serving)

• Calories: ~220
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 2g
• WW Points: ~6-8 (varies by plan and specific ingredients)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Comfort Food with a Twist: Combines classic Southern flavors in a healthier format.
2. Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead for easy breakfasts during busy mornings.
3. Customizable: Swap out waffles for whole-grain pancakes or add veggies like diced bell peppers for extra nutrients.
4. Family Approved: A dish that feels indulgent but works for everyone’s goals.

Tips for Success

• Crisp the Waffles: Toasting the waffles ensures they don’t become too soggy in the casserole.
• Season the Chicken: For extra flavor, add a dash of paprika or garlic powder to the shredded chicken.
• Don’t Skip the Syrup: Sugar-free maple syrup ties all the flavors together—don’t skimp!
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or serve with hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a side of fresh fruit or a small green smoothie for a balanced breakfast.
• Serve with extra sugar-free syrup or a dollop of Greek yogurt on top for added richness.

The Chicken & Waffle Breakfast Casserole is a delightful dish that balances indulgence with nutrition. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing your weekly breakfasts, this casserole is easy to make, satisfying, and sure to impress. Start your morning off right with this comforting and healthy recipe!