Can I use a different type of cheese instead of cottage cheese?

You can use ricotta cheese for a similar creamy texture with slightly different flavor. Greek yogurt also works in a pinch, though it's tangier and less protein-rich than cottage cheese.

Why is my cottage cheese watery in the bowl?

This happens when the cottage cheese releases moisture during heating. Drain your cottage cheese before mixing, or use small-curd cottage cheese which tends to hold together better. Blending it smooth also helps reduce excess liquid.

Can I make this Cottage Cheese Chicken Parm Bowl ahead of time?

Absolutely! Cook the chicken and prepare the cottage cheese mixture up to 2 days ahead. Store separately and assemble just before reheating. This makes weeknight dinners incredibly easy.

5 Reasons This Cottage Cheese Chicken Parm Bowl is Your Ultimate High-Protein Comfort Food

Cottage Cheese Chicken Parm Bowl: A Protein-Packed Twist on a Classic Favorite

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This healthy twist on a classic chicken parmesan features tender chicken, savory marinara, and creamy cottage cheese all served in a convenient bowl. Packed with 45-50g protein per serving.

Author: Sarah Mae Carter
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 2 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Bake, Sear
Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

Scale

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
1 cup marinara sauce
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper on both sides.
Heat olive oil in a 10-12 inch oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Transfer chicken to a baking dish and top with marinara sauce. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
While chicken bakes, mix cottage cheese with half of the mozzarella and half of the Parmesan in a bowl.
Remove chicken from oven and let rest for 3-5 minutes. Slice into thick strips.
Place sliced chicken in serving bowls and top with cottage cheese mixture.
Sprinkle remaining mozzarella and Parmesan over the top.
Return to oven for 5-10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired and serve hot.

Notes

For extra protein, use chicken thighs instead of breasts. They stay juicier and add more protein.
Blend cottage cheese for 10-15 seconds if you prefer a smoother texture.
Don’t overcook the chicken to keep it tender. Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F internal temperature.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cottage cheese mixture for extra flavor.
For a crispy topping, mix panko breadcrumbs with olive oil and sprinkle on top before final baking.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 485 kcal
Sugar: 8 g
Sodium: 980 mg
Fat: 18 g
Saturated Fat: 7 g
Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 15 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 48 g
Cholesterol: 145 mg

Find it online: https://www.benefitiany.com/cottage-cheese-chicken-parm-bowl/