Description
The Chicken Parm Cottage Cheese Bowl is a healthy, protein-packed twist on the classic chicken parmesan. Tender chicken breast, topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, is served over a bed of creamy cottage cheese. A lighter alternative to traditional chicken parm, it’s perfect for healthy dinner recipes, quick lunch ideas, or any time you’re craving something comforting yet nutritious.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
For the Bowl:
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a shallow bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and dried oregano. Coat each chicken breast with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish.
- Add marinara and cheese: Spoon marinara sauce over each chicken breast and top with shredded mozzarella cheese. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
- Assemble the bowl: In each bowl, add a scoop of cottage cheese. Top with the baked chicken, spooning extra marinara sauce from the baking dish over the chicken.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.
Notes
- For a lower-carb version, skip the breadcrumbs and coat the chicken in almond meal or ground flax seeds.
- You can make your own marinara sauce or use a store-bought version for convenience.
- This bowl can be served with a side of steamed vegetables or over a bed of zucchini noodles for a lighter option.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 46g
- Cholesterol: 90mg