Introduction

This High Protein Creamy Garlic Cheesy Chicken is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with crispy seasoned potatoes in a rich, cheesy garlic sauce. It’s perfect for a satisfying meal that feels indulgent yet packs a protein punch.

The image shows a clear plastic container filled with golden roasted potato pieces at the bottom, partially covered by several pieces of baked chicken topped with melted creamy pale yellow cheese. The chicken pieces are coated in a slightly reddish sauce with spinach or parsley sprinkled evenly on top, adding a green contrast. The cheese has browned a little on the edges, giving a lightly crispy texture. The container rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1.75 lbs chicken breast, cubed (800g)
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons onion powder
2 teaspoons mixed herbs
1 teaspoon chili flakes
2 teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons olive oil
1.75 lbs potatoes, cubed (800g)
1 teaspoon salt for potatoes
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon mixed herbs for potatoes
1 teaspoon chili flakes for potatoes
1 teaspoon paprika for potatoes
0.5 cup milk (any type) (120ml)
3.5 oz light cream cheese, Philadelphia Lightest (100g)
1.4 oz grated Parmesan cheese (40g)
1.75 oz shredded mozzarella or low-fat cheese (50g)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, toss the cubed chicken breast with minced garlic, onion powder, mixed herbs, chili flakes, paprika, salt, and olive oil until evenly coated.
Step 2: Heat a large deep pan over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes until browned on all sides. Then reduce heat to medium-low.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, toss the cubed potatoes with salt, garlic powder, mixed herbs, chili flakes, and paprika. Use cooking spray if desired.
Step 4: Cook the potatoes in an air fryer at 400°F for 18-20 minutes or in an oven at 400°F for 20-23 minutes until crispy.
Step 5: Lower the heat on the chicken pan. Add the milk and light cream cheese, stirring continuously until the cream cheese melts completely and the mixture is smooth.
Step 6: Stir in the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella until melted and creamy. Season with additional salt, garlic, or mixed herbs to taste.
Step 7: Gently fold in the crispy potatoes, ensuring everything is coated with the creamy sauce.
Step 8: Cover the pan for 4-5 minutes on low heat to allow the flavors to meld and the cheese to fully integrate.
Step 9: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For a spicier kick, increase the chili flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce.
Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a different flavor and added nutrients.
If you don’t have an air fryer, roasting the potatoes in the oven works equally well for crispiness.
Substitute the cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier sauce.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce creamy and prevent drying out.

How to Serve

The image shows a transparent container filled with golden brown gnocchi on the bottom layer, covered by several pieces of grilled chicken breast with a reddish glaze. On top, there is a layer of melted white cheese spread evenly, with green chopped herbs sprinkled over it, giving a fresh look. The dish appears warm and slightly oily, with the cheese melted and slightly browned in spots. The container sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use different cuts of chicken?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs or tenders if you prefer. Cooking times may vary slightly, so ensure chicken is cooked through before adding the sauce.

Is this recipe suitable for a low-fat diet?

Using light cream cheese and low-fat shredded cheese helps keep the fat content lower, but you can further reduce fat by using skim milk and less cheese if desired.