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