Save to Pinterest Experience a flavorful and nutritious dinner with our High Protein Chicken Bake. This Mediterranean-inspired dish features tender chicken breasts layered with a creamy mixture of Greek yogurt, spinach, and melted mozzarella. It is a perfect solution for those seeking a low-carb, high-protein meal that is easy to prepare and packed with vibrant flavors from roasted cherry tomatoes and Italian seasonings.
Save to Pinterest This bake is not just healthy; it's also incredibly convenient. By using Greek yogurt as a topping base, the chicken stays remarkably juicy throughout the baking process while creating a rich, satisfying sauce that pairs beautifully with the wilted spinach and bursting cherry tomatoes.
Ingredients
- Protein & Dairy: 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
- Vegetables: 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped, ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved, 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Seasonings & Oils: 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp Italian seasoning, Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Step 2
- Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Step 3
- In a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt, minced garlic, chopped spinach, shredded mozzarella, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
- Step 4
- Arrange chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
- Step 5
- Evenly spread the yogurt-spinach mixture over the top of each chicken breast.
- Step 6
- Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes around and on top of the chicken.
- Step 7
- 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 8
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the most tender results, avoid overcooking the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to pull the dish from the oven exactly at 165°F (74°C). Allowing the chicken to rest for five minutes after baking is crucial as it lets the juices redistribute into the meat.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a different nutritional profile, you can substitute the spinach with chopped kale or Swiss chard. If you prefer a bit of heat, try adding a sprinkle of chili flakes to the yogurt mixture, or finish the dish with fresh basil leaves for an aromatic touch.
Serviervorschläge
For a complete low-carb meal, serve this chicken bake alongside cauliflower rice or a bed of sautéed zucchini noodles. It also pairs wonderfully with roasted seasonal vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers to round out the Mediterranean flavors.
Save to Pinterest Whether you are prepping meals for the week or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this High Protein Chicken Bake delivers on both nutrition and flavor. It's a reliable, easy-to-clean-up recipe that makes healthy eating feel like an indulgence.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, thaw and drain frozen spinach thoroughly before adding to the yogurt mixture. Squeeze out excess moisture to prevent the dish from becoming watery during baking.
- → 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 check.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake when ready, adding an extra 5-10 minutes if baking cold from the refrigerator.
- → Is this suitable for freezing?
Yes, this freezes well. Wrap individual portions tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
- → What sides work well with this dish?
Cauliflower rice, roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers, or a simple Mediterranean salad with cucumber and feta complement the flavors beautifully.