Dinner

Cheese Chicken Bake: Creamy, High-Protein One-Dish Meal Recipe

Byrami Hayes February 6, 2026February 6, 2026

Introduction

This Cheese Chicken Bake is a creamy, high-protein, one-dish wonder that’s both comforting and simple to make. With tender chicken breasts coated in a rich cheese sauce, it’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

A white oval dish filled with multiple baked cauliflower florets covered in a creamy sauce, topped with a golden-brown, crispy layer of herbs and melted cheese. The cauliflower pieces are arranged close together, showing a mix of white and light browned textures under the herb topping. A wooden spatula held by a woman's hand is lifting one piece from the dish. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (similar size for even cooking)
1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Olive oil spray, for greasing the dish
Optional garnish: chopped parsley or chives

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray an 8×8-inch baking dish with olive oil.
Step 2: Add cottage cheese, Parmesan, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to a blender. Blend for 30–45 seconds, scraping down the sides as needed, until completely smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Pour the blended sauce evenly over the chicken, ensuring each piece is fully coated.
Step 4: Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the sauce is bubbling with light golden spots on top.
Step 5: Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes to the sauce before blending.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the chicken broth slightly or add a tablespoon of cream cheese.
Serve with steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Storage

Store leftover chicken bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving to keep the sauce creamy.

How to Serve

The image shows a white rectangular dish filled with six golden-brown baked cheese-covered cauliflower florets. The cauliflower is covered in a creamy white sauce that looks smooth and thick, with bubbling and slightly browned cheese on top, giving a crispy texture. Small bits of green garnish are sprinkled softly over the surface, adding color contrast. The dish is set on a white marbled surface, conveying a clean and bright setting. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

It’s best to use thawed chicken breasts for even cooking. If using frozen, thaw completely before preparing and adjust the baking time as needed.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

This recipe relies on cottage and Parmesan cheese for creaminess and flavor. To make it dairy-free, substitute with dairy-free cream cheese and nutritional yeast, but the texture and taste will differ.