Save to Pins The High Protein Chicken Bake is a flavorful, Mediterranean-inspired dish that combines lean protein with fresh vegetables and creamy Greek yogurt. This oven-baked meal is perfect for those seeking a nutritious, low-carb dinner that is easy to prepare and packed with 40g of protein per serving.
Save to Pins By layering juicy chicken breasts with a savory yogurt and spinach mixture, you create a moisture-locking topping that keeps the poultry tender throughout the baking process. The addition of burst cherry tomatoes provides a bright acidity that balances the richness of the melted mozzarella.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 4 small breasts)
- ½ cup Greek yogurt (plain, non-fat or low-fat)
- ¼ cup low-fat mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Prep
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Step 2: Mix Topping
- In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, chopped spinach, shredded mozzarella, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
- Step 3: Assemble
- Arrange the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Evenly spread the yogurt-spinach mixture over the top of each breast.
- Step 4: Garnish
- Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes around and on top of the chicken.
- Step 5: Bake
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the top is lightly golden.
- Step 6: Rest
- Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This prevents overcooking and keeps the meat juicy. Using a standard 8x8 inch baking dish helps keep the ingredients concentrated for better flavor infusion.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Feel free to substitute the spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a different texture. For those who prefer a bit of spice, a sprinkle of chili flakes before baking adds a nice kick, while fresh basil added after baking provides a classic Mediterranean finish.
Serviervorschläge
Pair this High Protein Chicken Bake with roasted vegetables or cauliflower rice for a complete low-carb meal. It also works beautifully alongside a crisp green salad to keep the dinner light and refreshing.
Save to Pins This High Protein Chicken Bake is a simple yet sophisticated solution for healthy weeknight eating. Enjoy the perfect balance of creamy toppings and succulent chicken in every bite.
Questions & Answers
- → Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, thaw and drain frozen spinach thoroughly before using. Squeeze out excess moisture to prevent the dish from becoming watery. Use about half the amount since frozen spinach is more compact.
- → What temperature should the chicken reach?
The chicken is safe to eat when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast to ensure proper doneness.
- → How long does this keep in the refrigerator?
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven at 350°F until warmed through. The flavors often develop more depth after sitting overnight.
- → Can I freeze this chicken bake?
Yes, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. The texture may be slightly softer after freezing but remains delicious.
- → What vegetables work well as substitutes?
Kale, Swiss chard, or roasted red peppers make excellent alternatives to spinach. You can also add artichoke hearts or sun-dried tomatoes for additional Mediterranean flavors.