Oh boy, do I have a treat for you today! Let me tell you about my High Protein Chicken Parm Cottage Cheese Bowl – it’s a dish that combines so many delights into one wholesome, comforting meal. I first created this recipe one evening after a long day at work when I found myself staring at a tub of cottage cheese softly pleading to be transformed into something more exciting. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint!
The beauty of this dish is in its simplicity. You get all the flavors of traditional chicken Parmesan but with a healthier twist, and let’s not even get started on how packed it is with protein. Plus, every bite is cheesy, crispy, and oh-so-delicious. It’s the perfect pick-me-up after a tough day or a splendid way to impress a dinner guest without spending hours in the kitchen. Honestly, who wouldn’t want chicken Parm with a cozy twist?
What’s in High Protein Chicken Parm Cottage Cheese Bowl?
Now, let’s take a look at the star ingredients that make this dish a hit:
Cottage Cheese: This creamy base is a fantastic source of protein and adds a lovely texture to the bowl. I love to use low-fat cottage cheese, but feel free to choose what you prefer.
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast: Lean and packed with protein, this is the main event! When seasoned just right, it becomes the crispy chicken you crave without the extra calories.
Breadcrumbs: I recommend whole wheat breadcrumbs for a healthier option, but regular ones work just fine too. They create that delicious crunchy coating we all love!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nutty flavor that pairs so well with the chicken. I can’t help but sprinkle a little extra on top just for good measure.
Egg: This helps the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken for that perfect crunch.
Marinara Sauce: Use store-bought or homemade—whatever’s easiest! Just enough to bring that saucy goodness to the dish.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Because, let’s face it, everything is better with melted cheese. It adds a gooey, comforting finish.
Fresh Basil: I love to use fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor. It really ties the whole bowl together.
Olive Oil Spray: A light spray makes the chicken crisp up beautifully in the oven. You could use regular oil too if you prefer.
Is High Protein Chicken Parm Cottage Cheese Bowl Good for You?
Absolutely! This dish balances nutrition and flavor beautifully, making it an excellent choice for a wholesome meal.
Cottage Cheese: As I mentioned, it’s packed with protein. It also contains calcium, which is important for strong bones.
Chicken Breast: Another protein powerhouse, it’s the leanest part of the chicken, making it a good choice for those looking to maintain or build muscle.
Breadcrumbs and Parmesan: Whole wheat breadcrumbs provide a bit of fiber, and when paired with Parmesan, they create depth of flavor without excessive calories.
However, if you’re watching your sodium intake, just check the marinara sauce and breadcrumbs to ensure they are lower in salt.
Ingredients List
This recipe serves 2, so it’s perfect for sharing (or enjoying all to yourself!).
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1 large boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Olive oil spray or oil for frying
How to Make High Protein Chicken Parm Cottage Cheese Bowl?
Let’s dive into the deliciousness!
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper because we want to keep our cleanup easy!
2. Prepare your chicken breast by seasoning it lightly with salt and pepper—don’t be shy!
3. In a bowl, beat the egg till it’s nice and frothy. In another bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
4. Dip the seasoned chicken breast into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure it sticks well.
5. Place that beautifully coated chicken onto your prepared baking sheet. A light spray of olive oil on top will help it crisp up in the oven.
6. Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through and glorious golden brown. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
7. As your chicken bakes, prepare your serving bowl—start with the cottage cheese as your base.
8. Once the chicken is done, slice it into strips and layer over the cottage cheese, making sure each piece looks lovingly placed.
9. Top it off with the marinara sauce and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the entire masterpiece.
10. Pop it back in the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes, just enough time for that cheese to melt into gooey perfection.
11. When it comes out of the oven, finish it off with fresh basil leaves for that welcomed herbaceous touch.
Serving Up Style
This dish is more than just delicious; it’s interactive too! You can customize it with different sauces or by adding veggies like spinach or bell peppers in the layers. Feel free to play around! And for anyone who loves some heat, a sprinkle of chili flakes on top gives it that extra zing.
I genuinely can’t wait for you to try this recipe. It brings warmth to my kitchen and joy to my table, and I hope it does the same for you! If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you. Happy cooking!
