We all know the struggle of trying to balance cravings with a weight loss journey, especially when those cravings are for something as delicious as Taco Bell. But what if you could satisfy that craving with a healthy, low-calorie alternative that helps you stay on track with your goals? Whether you’re looking to shed some pounds, maintain a calorie deficit, or simply enjoy a tasty, guilt-free meal, this blog is here to guide you through a homemade high-protein chicken nacho bake that hits all those markers. With ingredients like protein chips, rotisserie chicken, and a mix of flavorful spices, this dish offers the perfect solution to indulge your Taco Bell love while working towards your fitness aspirations. Ready to redefine your relationship with comfort food and learn how to meal prep like a pro? Let’s dive in!
Ingredients Needed:
- Five mini bags of protein chips (Quest loaded taco flavor recommended, 19 g protein per bag)
- One can of low-fat cream of chicken soup (Campbell’s suggested)
- 1 1/4 cups of diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel is a good option)
- 1/2 cup of protein-rich milk (such as Fair Life 0%)
- 600 g of shredded rotisserie chicken (Costco’s rotisserie chicken works perfectly)
- 1 tablespoon of low-sodium taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup of low-fat sour cream
- 240 g of shredded cheese (a blend of low-fat and mozzarella is recommended)
- Toppings: 2 cups of shredded lettuce, 8 tablespoons of low-fat sour cream, and 8 tablespoons of chopped tomatoes
Step-by-Step Preparation:
Shredding the Chicken:
Start by shredding your rotisserie chicken. A useful tip is to refrigerate the chicken beforehand to avoid burning your fingers. Remove any excess gel-like substances (or as I like to call it, “the jelly”) and cut off any rope or bindings that often come with the rotisserie chicken. Use your hands to easily separate the meat from the bones.
Mixing the Chicken Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken with sour cream, milk, cream of chicken soup, taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and one cup of shredded cheese. Mix thoroughly until everything is well-combined. This mixture creates the hearty base for your nacho bake, offering robust flavors without excessive calories.
Layering the Dish:
Spread half of the crushed protein chips evenly on the bottom of the casserole dish. Follow it with the chicken mixture, ensuring it spreads evenly across the dish. Layer the remaining chips on top, creating an even layer. Finish by sprinkling the rest of the cheese over the dish to create a crispy, cheesy top.
Baking:
Cover the dish with foil and bake for approximately 30 minutes. Within the last 10 minutes, remove the foil to allow the top to achieve a golden-brown color, adding to the dish’s appeal and texture.
Preparing Dessert:
While the nacho bake cooks, use this time to prepare a simple, healthy dessert. My go-to includes Healthy Choice Greek yogurt bars with prepped strawberries and blueberries, all drizzled with a touch of chocolate syrup, adding sweetness without overwhelming your caloric intake.
Toppings and Calories:
When ready to eat, top each serving with shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, and a dollop of sour cream. If you have a favorite sauce, like Taco Bell’s fire sauce, feel free to add a few dashes to enhance the flavor without adding calories. Each meal, topped and ready, contains roughly 374 calories, 18 g of fat, 14 g of carbs, and a satisfying 40 g of protein.
This meal not only appeases those fast food cravings but also ensures that you stay full and satisfied, thanks to its high protein content. The key takeaway is incorporating comfort foods in a balanced manner, allowing you to enjoy what you love while committing to your health journey.
Remember, weight loss isn’t just about numbers on a scale. It’s about maintaining a healthy heart and a positive mindset. With delicious and nutritious meals like this, you’re well on your way to achieving long-term, sustainable success. Keep pushing forward and indulge in healthy, satisfying meals that nurture your body and soul.
