Chicken Parm Cottage Cheese Bowl
Craving comfort food without the heavy calories? This Chicken Parm Cottage Cheese Bowl delivers all the flavor of the classic Italian favorite—reimagined in a high-protein, low-carb bowl. Tender, golden-seared chicken is topped with melty mozzarella, zesty marinara, and served over a creamy bed of cottage cheese for a nourishing twist. It’s quick, satisfying, and perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or fueling up post-workout. With just the right balance of indulgence and nutrition, this bowl proves that healthy eating can still feel like a treat.
Ready in: 25–30 minutes
Serves: 2
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
2 small boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
1/3 cup marinara sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
For the Bowl Base:
1 cup low-fat or full-fat cottage cheese
1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice (optional, for a heartier meal)
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Cook the Chicken:
Pound chicken breasts to even thickness if needed. Season with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F/74°C).
2. Add Marinara and Cheese:
Lower heat. Spoon marinara sauce over the chicken. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan. Cover the skillet and let the cheese melt, about 2–3 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. Assemble the Bowl:
Divide cottage cheese between two bowls. (Optional: Add a scoop of quinoa or rice on the side or underneath.)
Slice the cheesy chicken and place it over the cottage cheese. Spoon extra marinara from the skillet on top.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
✅ Tips:
- Use rotisserie or pre-cooked chicken for a quicker version.
- Want it spicy? Add chili flakes to the marinara or use spicy tomato sauce.
- Air fryer method: Air fry chicken at 375°F for 15 minutes, then top with sauce and cheese and return to air fryer for 2 more minutes.
- Choose low-sodium marinara and low-fat cottage cheese for a lighter version.
❓ Chicken Parm Cottage Cheese Bowl – Q&A
Q: Can I meal prep this?
A: Yes! Keep the chicken and cottage cheese separate until ready to eat. Reheat the chicken, then assemble.
Q: Is this dish low-carb?
A: Without rice or quinoa, it’s low in carbs and high in protein. Keep the grain optional for a keto-friendly version.
Q: Can I use shredded chicken instead of whole breasts?
A: Absolutely. Just toss the shredded chicken with marinara and top with cheese before heating.
Q: Does the cottage cheese get warm?
A: It can stay cold for a contrast or be warmed slightly by the hot chicken — your choice!
Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Try using breaded eggplant slices or plant-based chicken alternatives instead.
Nutrition per Serving (approximate):
Based on using low-fat cottage cheese and no added grain
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 40g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Sugar: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Sodium: 550mg
- Calcium: ~20% DV