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Grilled chicken breast slices seasoned with herbs rest elegantly in a glass container on a woven mat. The addition of leafy greens and hints of pesto creates a fresh, appetizing presentation.

Chicken Pesto Spinach Bake (Meal Prep)

Chicken Pesto Spinach Bake is the ultimate meal prep recipe—packed with protein, loaded with flavor, and ridiculously easy to make. Perfect for busy weeks!
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Additional Time: 15 minutes
Author: Heather Painchaud
Servings: 6 servings
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Ingredients

  • 6 chicken breasts about 60 oz, raw, sliced or cubed
  • ¾ cup pesto
  • 3 cups cottage cheese Dairyland 4%
  • 8 oz fresh spinach
  • 6 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning
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Instructions

  • Sprinkle the chicken with Italian seasoning and place it on a lined baking sheet.
  • Cook in the oven at 350°F for 12-15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Allow to cool.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the spinach, cottage cheese, and pesto.
  • Into each single-serve glass meal prep container, layer equal amounts of the spinach mixture.
  • Divide the cooked chicken between the containers.
  • Top with mozzarella cheese.
  • Repeat for 5-6 meal prep portions.
  • Place lids on and refrigerate for up to one week or store in the freezer for up to three months.
  • To cook (if frozen, defrost completely first), preheat the oven to 350°F and bake for 10-15 minutes or air fry for 5-8 minutes at 400°F.

Notes

  • Use high-quality pesto – Since pesto is a key flavor, opt for a good store-bought brand or make your own for extra freshness.
  • Chop the spinach – If you prefer a more even texture, give the spinach a rough chop before mixing it in.
  • Swap the cheese – Not a fan of cottage cheese? You can use ricotta for a smoother texture.
  • Make it spicy – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pesto mixture for a little heat.
  • Use meal prep containers with dividers – If you like your food separated, use containers with compartments to keep things fresh.
  • Freeze in portions – If freezing, store in single-serve containers so you can grab and reheat just what you need.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servings | Calories: 567kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 67g | Fat: 28g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.03g | Cholesterol: 187mg | Sodium: 1061mg | Potassium: 975mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 1043IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 302mg | Iron: 1mg