High Protein Chicken Parm Cottage Cheese Bowl Recipe

Introduction

This High Protein Chicken Parm Cottage Cheese Bowl is a delicious and nutritious meal that combines creamy cottage cheese with tender shredded chicken and classic Italian flavors. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for a hearty lunch or dinner that keeps you full and satisfied.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cottage cheese (Greek yogurt or ricotta can be a substitute)
• 2 cups shredded chicken (pre-cooked chicken works well)
• 1 cup marinara sauce (low-sodium recommended)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning (fresh herbs preferred)
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese (any melting cheese may work)
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cook the chicken by grilling or boiling until fully cooked, then shred or dice into bite-sized pieces.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine cottage cheese, shredded chicken, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well to create a creamy mixture.
3. Step 3: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
4. Step 4: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the dish for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
5. Step 5: Let the dish cool for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh basil before serving warm. Optionally, add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Tips & Variations

• Use pre-cooked shredded turkey instead of chicken for a lighter twist.
• Replace marinara sauce with pesto for a fresh, vibrant flavor.
• Swap cottage cheese with ricotta for a creamier texture.
• Add sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
• Watch the cheese carefully while baking to avoid burning.
• Prepare the base mixture up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate; add cheese just before baking.
• Try different melting cheeses such as gouda or cheddar for unique flavors.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. To freeze, prepare the dish without baking, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

What type of chicken should I use for the High Protein Chicken Parm Cottage Cheese Bowl?

You can use any cooked chicken such as grilled, boiled, or rotisserie chicken. Pre-cooked chicken saves time and works perfectly—just shred or dice before mixing.

Can I freeze the High Protein Chicken Parm Cottage Cheese Bowl?

Yes, freeze the dish unbaked in a covered container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking for best results.

High Protein Chicken Parm Cottage Cheese Bowl Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 79 reviews

This High Protein Chicken Parm Cottage Cheese Bowl is a creamy, flavorful Italian-inspired dish featuring shredded chicken, cottage cheese, and marinara sauce, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. It’s baked to perfection with a bubbly cheesy crust and garnished with fresh basil for an aromatic finish. Ideal for a nourishing, protein-packed dinner, this recipe is easy to prep, customizable, and suitable for meal prep.

• Author: Elena
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 bowls 1x
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

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For the Base

• 2 cups Cottage Cheese (Greek yogurt or ricotta can be a substitute)
• 2 cups Shredded Chicken (use pre-cooked chicken to save time)
• 1 cup Marinara Sauce (opt for low-sodium options for a healthier twist)

For Flavor

• 1 tsp Italian Seasoning (using fresh herbs gives a brighter taste)
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

For the Topping

• 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese (any melting cheese may work)
• 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese (feel free to omit if desired)

For Garnish

• 1/4 cup Fresh Basil (optional but highly recommended)

Instructions

1. Pre-cook the Chicken: Start by grilling or boiling your chicken until it’s fully cooked. Then, shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces—this makes it easier to mix and enjoy.
2. Mix the Base: In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese, shredded chicken, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything until well-integrated, creating a creamy mixture full of flavor.
3. Transfer to Baking Dish: Carefully pour the mixture into a baking dish. Spread it evenly, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top to create a delicious cheesy crust.
4. Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the dish for about 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Watch closely to avoid burning the cheese.
5. Garnish and Serve: Let the dish cool for a couple of minutes, then top it with fresh basil for an aromatic finish. Serve warm and enjoy your nourishing chicken parm cottage cheese bowl.

Notes

• Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat if desired.
• Prepare the uncooked mixture up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate; add cheese just before baking to prevent watery texture.
• Use thick marinara sauce to avoid watery dishes.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days; reheat in microwave or oven.
• This dish freezes well; freeze unbaked, thaw overnight, then bake.
• Try substitutions like turkey for chicken, pesto instead of marinara, or ricotta for cottage cheese for different flavor profiles.

Keywords: Chicken Parm, Cottage Cheese Bowl, High Protein Dinner, Italian Recipe, Baked Chicken Dish, Healthy Chicken Parm