There’s just something about warm, melty avocado paired with juicy baked chicken and gooey cheese that makes you feel like you’re eating something way more indulgent than it really is.

This One-Pan Avocado Chicken Bake brings big flavor with barely any cleanup. It’s creamy, savory, and satisfying — but made with clean, simple ingredients and ready in just 30 minutes. One pan, minimal prep, and a meal that’s naturally low-carb, high-protein, and totally craveable.

Whether it’s a busy weeknight or just one of those “I need comfort food” kind of days, this one’s a keeper.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp cumin

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

• Salt & pepper to taste

• 1 ripe avocado, sliced

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella or dairy-free cheese

• ¼ cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)

• Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish

• Optional: squeeze of lime

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven
   Preheat oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a baking dish or oven-safe skillet with olive oil.

2. Season the chicken
   Place chicken in the pan. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle evenly with garlic powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.

3. Add avocado + cheese
   Top each piece of chicken with sliced avocado and a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese. Add cherry tomatoes around the chicken if using.

4. Bake
   Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through (165°F internal temp) and cheese is melted and bubbly.

5. Garnish & serve
   Top with chopped cilantro or parsley and a squeeze of lime if desired. Serve with a side salad, rice, or roasted veggies.

Sarah’s Tips:

• Want it crispier? Broil for the last 2–3 minutes to brown the cheese.

• Add spice: Mix a little hot sauce into the oil before baking.

• Make it dairy-free: Use shredded dairy-free mozzarella or skip the cheese entirely — the avocado still makes it creamy!

• Meal prep idea: Bake ahead, then reheat portions for fast lunches all week.

Flavorful Conclusion:

This One-Pan Avocado Chicken Bake is proof that creamy, cheesy comfort food can still be clean, simple, and done in one dish. It’s a no-fuss, full-flavor kind of meal that keeps dinner delicious and doable.

Nutrition (per serving, serves 4):

• Calories: 390

• Protein: 36g

• Carbs: 4g

• Fat: 24g

• Fiber: 3g

• Sugar: 1g