Introduction
If you’re craving a cheesy, comforting, and protein-packed dinner that’s also low-carb and gluten-free, look no further than this High-Protein Cheesy Chicken Mozzarella Bake. Tender chicken breasts or thighs are seared to lock in flavor and then topped with a creamy, cheesy blend of mozzarella, Parmesan, and cream cheese, baked until bubbly and golden.
This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or impressing family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s versatile, flavorful, and pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or roasted low-carb sides.
With just 6 steps from start to finish, this recipe delivers a restaurant-quality meal at home with minimal effort. Plus, it’s fully customizable—add spinach, roasted tomatoes, or fresh herbs to elevate the flavors even more.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Chicken
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Cheese Topping
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup cream cheese, softened
- ½ tsp dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)
- Optional: ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
For Garnish
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
Equipment
- Oven
- Skillet for searing chicken
- Baking dish (9×13-inch recommended)
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons and cups
Method
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
- Season all sides with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown (it will finish cooking in the oven).
Step 3: Mix the Cheese Topping
In a mixing bowl, combine:
- Mozzarella cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- Cream cheese
- Italian herbs
- Optional red pepper flakes
Stir until creamy and evenly mixed.
Step 4: Assemble the Bake
- Place the seared chicken in the greased baking dish.
- Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the top of the chicken.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, until:
- Chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C)
- Cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil. Serve hot alongside steamed vegetables, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad for a complete, low-carb, high-protein meal.
Pro Tips
- Add extra veggies: Layer sautéed spinach or roasted cherry tomatoes under the cheese for more flavor and nutrients.
- Even cooking: Sear chicken first to lock in juices, then finish in the oven for tender, perfectly cooked meat.
- Meal prep: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
- Customize cheese: Swap mozzarella for provolone or add a little fontina for a richer flavor.
Nutrition Highlights (per serving, approximate)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Protein: 45g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
Why it’s healthy: This dish is high in protein, low in carbs, and provides healthy fats from cheese. Perfect for low-carb, keto, or high-protein diets.
Print
High-Protein Cheesy Chicken Mozzarella Bake – Low-Carb & Gluten-Free
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
High-Protein Cheesy Chicken Mozzarella Bake – a low-carb, gluten-free, and protein-packed dinner with melty cheese and flavorful seasoning, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup cream cheese, softened
- ½ tsp dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)
- Optional: ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Pat chicken dry and season all sides with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear chicken 2–3 minutes per side until golden.
- In a bowl, combine mozzarella, Parmesan, cream cheese, Italian herbs, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir until evenly mixed and creamy.
- Place seared chicken in the baking dish. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the chicken.
- Bake 20–25 minutes, until chicken is fully cooked (165°F) and cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil over the top and serve hot with steamed veggies or salad.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add sautéed spinach or roasted cherry tomatoes under the cheese before baking.
- Pairs well with a side of low-carb vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Low-Carb
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Thighs are juicier and more flavorful but may require a few extra minutes in the oven.
2. Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, substitute dairy-free mozzarella and cream cheese for a lactose-free version.
3. Can I prep this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the dish but don’t bake. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then bake when ready.
4. Can I make it spicier?
Add extra crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the cheese mixture for more heat.
5. What sides pair well?
Steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, cauliflower rice, or a mixed green salad are excellent low-carb companions.
This High-Protein Cheesy Chicken Mozzarella Bake is a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or meal prep, combining flavor, protein, and comfort in every bite. With minimal prep and a quick bake, it’s a dish the whole family will love.