Easy Cottage Cheese Chicken Parm Bowl
This Cottage Cheese Chicken Parm Bowl offers all the comforting flavors of traditional chicken parmesan but is lighter and packed with protein. Juicy chicken coated in savory tomato sauce and melted mozzarella sits atop a bed of creamy cottage cheese instead of heavy pasta, creating a healthy and satisfying meal.
Equipment
- Medium bowl
- Large skillet
- Small saucepan
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- Spatula or spoon
- Oven or broiler
- Oven-safe bowls
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- Pinch of red pepper flakes optional
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish optional
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the chicken cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the chicken in batches if necessary, until browned and cooked through. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes per batch.
- While the chicken is cooking, prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the tomato sauce, oregano, basil, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
- Divide the cottage cheese between two bowls.
- Top each bowl with the cooked chicken.
- Pour the tomato sauce over the chicken.
- Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
- Option 1: Oven Method: Place the bowls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Option 2: Broiler Method: Place the bowls under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your amazing Cottage Cheese Chicken Parm Bowl!
Notes
For a spicier flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato sauce or use spicy Italian sausage instead of chicken. You can also add sautéed vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the sauce, or stir in spinach or kale after the cheese is melted for added nutrients. For a richer cheese flavor, use a blend of mozzarella, Parmesan, and provolone, or add a dollop of ricotta cheese on top before broiling. The chicken and sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Assemble the bowls just before serving for the best results.