Tuscan Cottage Cheese Chicken Skillet
This Tuscan Cottage Cheese Chicken Skillet is a creamy, protein-rich, one-pan dish packed with Italian flavor. Tender chicken breasts are seared and simmered in a creamy cottage cheese-based Tuscan sauce with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Italian herbs. It’s a healthier twist on creamy Tuscan chicken — with less fat and more protein — perfect for a weeknight meal.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tbsp olive oil
For the Sauce:
1 cup low-fat or full-fat cottage cheese
1 tbsp olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (in oil), drained and sliced
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cups baby spinach
½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for flavor)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Red chili flakes (optional, to taste)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Season chicken on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C). Remove from skillet and set aside.
2. Make the Sauce Base
In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil.
Saute onions for 2–3 minutes, then add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute.
3. Add Cottage Cheese and Broth
Reduce heat to medium-low. Add cottage cheese and chicken broth. Stir gently until the mixture is creamy and smooth (you can blend the cottage cheese beforehand if you prefer a smoother texture).
Stir in Parmesan, if using.
4. Finish the Sauce
Add spinach and cook until wilted (about 2 minutes).
Season with salt, pepper, and optional chili flakes.
Return chicken to the skillet and simmer for 2–3 minutes to heat through.
5. Serve
Serve hot on its own or with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
Total Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Tips
Blending the cottage cheese gives a smooth, creamy sauce (especially helpful for picky eaters).
Add mushrooms or zucchini for extra veggies.
Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for variety.
Use low-sodium broth and low-fat cottage cheese for a lighter option.
Great with whole grain pasta or over cauliflower rice for low-carb.
Frequently asked questions FAQs
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can make the whole dish and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Q: Is this freezer-friendly?
A: It can be frozen, but the cottage cheese sauce may change texture slightly. For best texture, eat fresh or refrigerated.
Q: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese?
A: Yes, Greek yogurt can work as a substitute, though it may curdle if overheated. Stir it in at the end off heat.
Q: Can I use thighs instead of breasts?
A: Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and work perfectly.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 360 kcal
Protein: 42 g
Carbohydrates: 7 g
Fat: 18 g
Saturated Fat: 6 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 4 g
Sodium: 500 mg
Calcium: 150 mg
Iron: 2.2 mg
Cholesterol: 105 mg