Quick Description
This Ultimate Chicken Parm Cottage Cheese Bowl is a high-protein twist on classic chicken parmesan — creamy, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying. Crispy chicken strips are mixed with cottage cheese and marinara, then topped with melted mozzarella and baked until bubbly. It’s low-carb, protein-packed, and perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep.
Servings & Timing
Serves: 2–3 bowls
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Bake Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: ~30 minutes
Ingredients List
- 2 cups breaded chicken strips (cooked and chopped)
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- ½–1 cup marinara sauce (Rao’s or your favorite)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan (optional)
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
-
Cook the Chicken
Prepare breaded chicken strips according to package instructions (air fryer or oven works best). Chop into bite-sized pieces. -
Make the Creamy Base
In a large bowl, mix cottage cheese, marinara sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. -
Combine
Fold in the chopped chicken pieces until evenly coated. -
Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour mixture into a greased oven-safe dish or bowl. -
Top with Cheese
Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top. -
Bake
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Broil 1–2 minutes for golden top if desired. -
Garnish & Serve
Top with fresh herbs and serve warm.
Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)
Calories: 420
Protein: 45g
Carbs: 18g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Why You’ll Love It
- 40+ grams of protein per serving
- Creamy without heavy cream
- Low-carb friendly
- Meal-prep approved
- Comfort food without the guilt
Ingredient Swaps
- Lower carb: Use grilled chicken instead of breaded.
- Extra protein: Blend the cottage cheese smooth before mixing.
- Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or hot honey drizzle.
- Dairy-free: Use dairy-free mozzarella and plant-based cottage alternative.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over zucchini noodles
- Pair with roasted broccoli
- Spoon over spaghetti squash
- Enjoy as a protein bowl on its own
Storage
Refrigerate up to 4 days
Freeze up to 2 months
Reheat in microwave or oven until hot
Pro Tips
- Blending cottage cheese makes it ultra creamy and sauce-like.
- Air frying chicken keeps it crisp before mixing.
- Don’t overbake — just melt and bubble the cheese.
