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

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (thin-sliced or pounded to even thickness)
  • 8 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup 2% Greek yogurt
  • 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning (or 3 tablespoons homemade)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • 4–6 slices turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions (plus extra for garnish)
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Olive oil spray or 1 teaspoon olive oil (for the baking dish)
  • Optional add-ins: steamed broccoli florets, sliced jalapeños, or diced tomatoes

Method
 

  1. Prep the oven and pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly oil a 9x13-inch baking dish or spray with olive oil.
  2. Flatten the chicken: If the chicken breasts are thick, pound them to about 1/2–3/4 inch for even cooking. Pat dry and lay them in the baking dish in a single layer.
  3. Mix the creamy base: In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, ranch seasoning, minced garlic, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Stir until smooth. If it seems too thick, add 1–2 tablespoons of water to loosen.
  4. Assemble the bake: Spread the creamy mixture evenly over the chicken. Sprinkle half the shredded cheddar on top.
  5. Add the crunch and color: Scatter the crumbled turkey bacon and chopped green onions over the cheese. Add jalapeños or red pepper flakes if you want a kick.
  6. Bake: Cover loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil, add the remaining cheddar, and bake 10–15 more minutes, until the cheese is melted and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  7. Rest and garnish: Let it rest for 5 minutes so the sauce thickens slightly. Garnish with extra green onions. Serve hot.