High Protein Chicken Lasagna Pocket (GRAIN FREE)

These are high-protein, low-carb lasagna-style pockets made with ground chicken instead of pasta—simple, filling, and meal-prep friendly with a crispy edge and creamy spinach-ricotta center. This recipe makes a large batch; enough to feed a hungry family of 4 with leftovers built in. Adjust as necessary!

Ingredients

Protein Base

• 3 lbs ground chicken

• Garlic powder (or fresh minced garlic), to taste

• Onion powder, to taste

• Italian seasoning, to taste

• Salt + black pepper, to taste

Filling

• 1 (15 oz) container whole milk ricotta cheese

• 1 small bin fresh spinach (about 8–10 oz)

• 2–3 tbsp butter

• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced

• Salt, to taste

Topping

• Grated Parmesan cheese and red chili flakes, as desired

For serving

• Marinara sauce for dipping

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Form the chicken bases
   Divide ground chicken into 3 equal portions (1 lb each).
   On separate sheets of parchment paper, press each portion into a thin, even “sheet.”
   Season generously with garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

3. Make the spinach filling
   In a pan over medium heat, melt butter.
   Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
   Add spinach and cook until fully wilted.
   Season with salt.
   Remove from heat and mix in ricotta cheese until well combined and creamy.

4. Assemble the pockets
   Spread 1/3 of the spinach-ricotta mixture over half of each chicken rectangle.
   Carefully fold the parchment paper in half to bring the chicken over the filling, creating a sealed pocket.
   Press edges gently to seal, then peel back parchment and trim off the extra paper.

5. Top & bake
   Sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese.
   Bake at 400°F for 20–30 minutes, or until chicken is fully cooked and reaches 165°F internal temperature.

6. Serve
   Slice and serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.

Notes

• These hold together best after resting for 5–10 minutes post-bake.

• You can add shredded mozzarella inside for extra stretch if desired.

• They reheat well in a skillet or oven for crisp edges.

Enjoy! Make sure to tag @crystalcerrato_ and @bodyoflightyogaschool if you make this recipe.