How do I know when the chicken is cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) internally.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can assemble it and refrigerate it unbaked for up to a day in advance.

What other cheeses can I use?

Provolone, asiago, or a mixed Italian cheese blend work well with this recipe.

Is there an alternative to marinara sauce?

You could substitute with homemade pesto for a deliciously different flair.

Can I add more vegetables?

Incorporating spinach or sliced mushrooms into the sauce adds flavor and nutrients.

Deliciously Easy Cottage Cheese Chicken Parm Recipe

Name: Deliciously Easy Cottage Cheese Chicken Parm Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: boneless chicken breasts; cottage cheese; marinara sauce; shredded mozzarella cheese; grated parmesan cheese; garlic powder; Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper; Olive oil

Craving chicken parmesan, but looking for a healthier twist? Look no further than this ooey-gooey Cottage Cheese Chicken Parm. Using cottage cheese adds a creamy texture and a burst of protein, making it a perfect meal for any health-conscious food lover. Expect all the classic flavors but with a delightful twist that will leave you craving more.

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Ingredients

For a rich and delicious Cottage Cheese Chicken Parm, you’ll need the following ingredients:

4 boneless chicken breasts
1 cup of cottage cheese
1 cup of marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking
1 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

Equipments

Oven
Baking dish
Frying pan
Mixing bowl
Measuring cups
Knife
Cutting board

How to Make Deliciously Easy Cottage Cheese Chicken Parm – Step By Step

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is perfect to ensure that your chicken gets cooked through while giving the cheese a golden, bubbly top. While your oven heats, it gives you time to prepare your ingredients without any rush.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Place your chicken breasts on a cutting board and season them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Flip the chickens to coat both sides. If you prefer a little more flavor, you can let the chicken sit while you move on to the next steps, allowing the seasonings to seep into the meat.

Step 3: Prepare the Coating

In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, half of the parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning. This mixture should be creamy and easily spreadable. The cottage cheese offers a lower-fat substitute to ricotta, traditionally used in some chicken parm recipes, while enhancing the protein content significantly.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Heat a drizzle of olive oil in your frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts, cooking each side for about 5 minutes until they’re golden brown. The objective here isn’t to cook the chicken through but to develop a delicious crust that will enhance the overall texture of the dish.

Step 5: Assemble Your Dish

In your baking dish, lay the browned chicken breasts flat. Spoon the cottage cheese mixture on top of each piece, ensuring a generous amount on each. Pour the marinara sauce over the cheese mixture, being careful to cover the chicken completely. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and the remainder of the parmesan cheese on top for that classic parm look.

Step 6: Bake

Place the baking dish into your preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the cheese is melted and bubbly on top. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to ensure the cheese doesn’t burn, unless you like a little char.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once done, carefully remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool for a moment. Serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil for an extra pop of color and flavor. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some whole grain pasta for a complete meal.

How to Serve Deliciously Easy Cottage Cheese Chicken Parm

For the best presentation and added flavor, serve your Cottage Cheese Chicken Parm with a garnish of fresh basil leaves or parsley. You can accompany your dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a classic Caesar salad. To create a truly comforting meal, consider a light drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra tanginess, complementing the savory depth of the dish.

Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions

To ensure the best results, allow the chicken to rest momentarily after baking to lock in its juices. Experiment with different cheese blends for topping; adding provolone or asiago can deliver new layers of flavor. If you’re watching carbs, a sprinkle of almond flour can replace breadcrumbs for texture. Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasonings before baking for a personalized touch.

Increase the Protein with this High-Protein Version!

Are you looking for a recipe that packs a punch of protein? Consider keeping the chicken breast and cottage cheese but adding in your favorite protein-rich ingredients. Quinoa or chickpeas can be added to the marinara sauce to boost its nutritional value, while a sprinkling of nutritional yeast delivers extra umami flavor.

Incorporating spinach or kale into the cheese mixture also increases protein, and these ingredients bring additional vitamins and minerals to your meal. So, prepare to enjoy a nourished and satisfied appetite with every bite of this protein-loaded meal.

Cottage Cheese Chicken Parm: A Low-Carb Delight

Love Chicken Parm but trying to cut carbs? This Cottage Cheese Chicken Parm helps you stay on track. Swap out traditional breadcrumbs for almond flour or skip the breading altogether. This step alone can drastically reduce the carb content while keeping the delicious goodness intact!

Serve it with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice to further enhance your low-carb, guilt-free indulgence. These simple substitutions cater to specific dietary needs without sacrificing the taste or joy of enjoying a fabulous chicken parm.

Storage Instructions

Your Cottage Cheese Chicken Parm can be refrigerated for up to four days in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze individual portions in airtight freezer bags for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake in a preheated oven until warmed through.

FAQs

How do I know when the chicken is cooked? Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) internally.
Can I prepare this dish in advance? Yes, you can assemble it and refrigerate it unbaked for up to a day in advance.
What other cheeses can I use? Provolone, asiago, or a mixed Italian cheese blend work well with this recipe.
Is there an alternative to marinara sauce? You could substitute with homemade pesto for a deliciously different flair.
Can I add more vegetables? Incorporating spinach or sliced mushrooms into the sauce adds flavor and nutrients.

Wrap Up & Bon Appétit!

Whether you’re seeking a nutritious dinner or a new twist on a classic, this Cottage Cheese Chicken Parm is sure to satisfy. It’s rich, creamy, and utterly delicious! Feel free to share this recipe with friends and family and let us know your twists in the comments below. Happy cooking!