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High Protein Crack Chicken Bake - Creamy, Cheesy, and Satisfying

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix (or 3 tablespoons homemade)
  • 4 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth (or milk)
  • 1 cup shredded reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella (optional for extra melt)
  • 4 slices center-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled (or 1/3 cup real bacon bits)
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions (plus extra for garnish)
  • Optional add-ins: 2 cups small broccoli florets or 1 cup frozen peas
  • Cooking spray or a little olive oil for the baking dish

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil.
  2. Season the chicken: Pat the chicken dry and toss with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Spread it in an even layer in the prepared baking dish.
  3. Make the creamy base: In a bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese, Greek yogurt, ranch seasoning, and chicken broth until smooth. If it seems too thick, add a splash more broth.
  4. Combine with cheese: Stir in 1/2 cup of the cheddar and the mozzarella (if using). Fold in half of the bacon and half of the green onions.
  5. Add optional veggies: If using broccoli or peas, scatter them over the chicken. This adds fiber and keeps the dish balanced.
  6. Assemble the bake: Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken and veggies, spreading it evenly. Top with the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar.
  7. Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake another 10–15 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through (165°F/74°C) and the top is bubbly and lightly browned.
  8. Finish and serve: Sprinkle with the remaining bacon and green onions. Let it rest for 5 minutes, then serve as-is or over cauliflower rice, brown rice, or a side salad.