Creamy High Protein Chicken Alfredo

This creamy, cheesy chicken Alfredo bake offers a delicious twist on classic comfort food while keeping it low-carb and high-protein. It’s perfect for easy weeknight dinners or meal prepping for the busy days ahead.

I first made this dish when looking for something nutritious yet comforting after a long day and it quickly became a regular request in our household.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breast: provides lean protein and cooks quickly
• Olive oil: adds a subtle richness and helps sauté the garlic evenly
• Garlic: lends aromatic flavor that infuses the whole dish
• Greek yogurt: creates creaminess with a tangy bite and keeps the sauce light
• Low-fat mozzarella: melts beautifully to bind the ingredients without excess fat
• Chopped spinach: adds vitamins and a pop of color while blending smoothly
• Cherry tomatoes: bring a fresh burst of sweetness and balance to the creaminess
• Italian seasoning: combines classic herbs that highlight the savory notes
• Salt and pepper: enhance all the flavors naturally, so season to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit or 190 degrees Celsius to get it ready so the bake cooks evenly.

Sauté the Garlic:

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add the minced garlic. Cook just until fragrant, about one minute, making sure it does not brown to avoid bitterness.

Cook the Chicken:

Add the chicken breast to the skillet and cook thoroughly, turning occasionally, until there is no pink left inside. This usually takes around 6 to 8 minutes depending on thickness. Remove from heat.

Prepare the Creamy Mixture:

In a mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, mozzarella, chopped spinach, halved cherry tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until evenly mixed.

Combine Chicken with Creamy Mixture:

Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces or shred it slightly and fold it into the yogurt mixture thoroughly to ensure every bite gets creamy and flavorful elements.

Bake the Dish:

Transfer everything to a baking dish and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the cheese is melted and the whole bake is bubbly and golden on top.

Rest and Serve:

Allow the bake to cool for about 5 to 10 minutes after removing it from the oven so it sets up nicely and is easier to portion out.

Save

I love using Greek yogurt here because it adds a creamy tang that makes this dish feel indulgent without heavy cream or butter. A memorable moment was when I brought this to a potluck and several friends asked for the recipe on the spot because of its rich but light flavor.

Storage Tips

Store leftover chicken Alfredo bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven or microwave until hot throughout, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry. This bake also freezes well for up to two months; thaw overnight before reheating.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap out chicken breast for thigh meat if you prefer juicier chicken though it may be slightly higher in fat. For a dairy-free version, try blending silken tofu or cashew cream instead of Greek yogurt, and use a vegan mozzarella alternative. Spinach can be replaced with kale or Swiss chard for different leafy green flavors.

Serving Suggestions

This bake pairs wonderfully with a light green salad or roasted vegetables for added texture and freshness. You might also enjoy it alongside a simple garlic bread if carbs are not restricted. A crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon complements the creamy richness nicely.

Cultural Context

Chicken Alfredo tradition hails from Italian-American cuisine featuring a rich, creamy pasta sauce. This recipe reinvents it by omitting pasta and focusing on wholesome ingredients while keeping the comforting flavors that make Alfredo so beloved. It’s a great example of adapting classic dishes to fit modern dietary preferences without sacrificing taste.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, substituting mozzarella with Parmesan or provolone works well and adds distinct flavors to the dish.

→ Is Greek yogurt necessary for creaminess?

Greek yogurt adds creaminess and a slight tang while keeping the dish lighter, but cream cheese or sour cream can be alternatives.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

It can be assembled in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking to save time.

→ What sides pair well with this chicken bake?

Simple green salads, roasted vegetables, or cauliflower rice complement the dish without overpowering it.

→ How do I ensure the chicken cooks evenly?

Cut chicken into uniform pieces and make sure the skillet heat is medium to cook through without drying out.