If you’re a Taco Bell enthusiast trying to cut calories and shed some pounds, you’re not alone. Many of us have faced the challenging paradox of craving our favorite fast food while striving to maintain a calorie deficit for fat loss. But fear not, because there’s a delicious solution that lets you enjoy those irresistible flavors without derailing your fitness goals. Enter the high-protein chicken nacho bake—a mouth-watering alternative that satisfies your Taco Bell cravings and keeps you on track with portion control and a protein-rich diet. In this blog, I’ll share my tried-and-true recipe that helped me lose 130 pounds and keep it off for 10 years. Get ready to indulge guilt-free with a meal prep that not only delights your taste buds but also sets you up for success in your weight loss journey.

Ingredients

This recipe leans heavily on a few strategic ingredient choices that optimize protein intake while keeping calories in check. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Five bags of protein chips: Mini bags of Quest’s loaded taco flavor deliver 19 grams of protein per bag. Lightly crush them to a medium consistency for the bake.
• Low-fat cream of chicken soup: Using a can from Campbell provides a creamy base without excessive calories.
• Diced tomatoes with green chilies: A cup and a quarter of Rotel’s version bring a zesty kick to the mix.
• Protein milk: Half a cup of Fair Life 0% protein milk sneaks in extra protein seamlessly.
• Rotisserie chicken: Pick one up from Costco and shred 600 grams for this recipe.
• Low sodium taco seasoning: A tablespoon from Great Value spices up the dish.
• Low-fat sour cream and shredded cheese: Each contributes to the creamy, cheesy texture, with a focus on lower fat content provided by brands like Great Value or Tmex.

Meal Prep Strategy

Meal prepping this chicken nacho bake can be a game-changer for anyone looking to lose weight. By preparing meals in advance, you’re not only saving time but also ensuring you have delicious, health-conscious options readily available. Here’s the step-by-step guide to prepping this dish:

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and prepare a 9×13 casserole dish by spraying it with cooking spray.
2. Shred the chicken: After refrigerating it, remove any excess jelly and the ropes used for tying. This process is much easier when the chicken is cold, and as you shred, try to separate as much meat from the bones as possible.
3. Create the chicken mixture: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken with sour cream, protein milk, low-fat cream of chicken soup, taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and a portion of the shredded cheese. Mix until the ingredients are well incorporated.
4. Layer the chips and mixture: Spread half of the crushed protein chips on the bottom of the casserole dish. Pour the chicken mixture over the chips, spreading it evenly, and then layer the remaining chips on top.
5. Add cheese and bake: Top with the remaining cheese, cover with foil, and bake for about 30 minutes, removing the foil for the last 10 minutes to achieve a perfectly melty, slightly crisp top.
6. Portioning: Once baked, allow it to cool briefly before dividing it into eight equal servings. Portion control is key, so using pre-measured containers ensures you maintain consistency with your calorie intake.

Toppings and Serving

When you’re ready to eat, elevate each serving with some fresh toppings:

• Shredded lettuce: Adds a refreshing crunch to the dish.
• Chopped tomatoes and low-fat sour cream: Complement the flavors with freshness and creaminess.
• Taco Bell fire sauce: Zero calories but packed with flavor, it’s an optional but authentic addition.

This meal keeps well in the fridge for up to five days, making it a convenient go-to throughout the week. While not tested for freezing, feel free to experiment if you’re curious about stocking up for longer.

A Sweet Conclusion

Even with a focus on calorie deficits and protein intake, no meal is complete without a satisfying dessert. Pair your savory meal with prepped fruits and Greek yogurt bars:

• Healthy Choice Greek yogurt bars from Costco are delicious low-calorie options that offer 5 grams of protein per bar.
• Complement these with freshly cut strawberries and blueberries, topped with a teaspoon of Smuckers chocolate syrup for a sweet finish.

Final Thoughts on Weight Loss

The journey of weight loss isn’t solely defined by numbers on the scale. It’s also a transformation of the heart and mind. Embrace this lifestyle with consistency and mindfulness, and remember that the key isn’t perfection but progress. Just as I’ve managed to not only lose but keep off 130 pounds for over a decade, you too can navigate this journey with determination and a few delicious recipes to keep you motivated! Your taste buds and waistline will thank you.