High Protein Chicken Parm Bowl

This High Protein Chicken Parm Cottage Cheese Bowl combines the comforting flavors of chicken parmesan with the creamy texture of cottage cheese for a hearty and nutritious meal. It’s an ideal choice when you need a quick lunch or dinner that is both satisfying and packed with protein.

I first made this on a busy weeknight when I wanted something fast but filling. Since then, it has become one of my go-to dishes because it always hits the spot without much fuss.

Ingredients

• Cooked chicken breast: make sure it is diced or shredded for easy layering and protein content
• Cottage cheese: use low-fat or full-fat depending on your preference for creaminess and fat content
• Marinara sauce: choose a quality brand or homemade for the best tomato flavor
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: this melts beautifully to create the classic parmesan texture
• Grated Parmesan cheese: adds sharpness and depth to the dish
• Italian seasoning: blends herbs like oregano and basil that bring that distinctive Italian flavor
• Garlic powder: enhances the savory profile
• Salt and pepper: for seasoning and balance
• Fresh basil or parsley: optional but excellent for a bright finish and garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

Season Chicken: In a medium bowl combine the cooked chicken with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Mix well until the chicken is evenly coated with spices.

Assemble the Bowl:

Layer Cottage Cheese: In your serving bowl spread cottage cheese evenly as the base. Add Chicken: Spread the seasoned chicken on top of the cottage cheese layer. Add Marinara Sauce: Pour marinara sauce over the chicken spreading it carefully so it covers most of the surface. Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the sauce to create a cheesy top layer.

Heat the Bowl:

Microwave: Place the bowl in the microwave and heat on high for one to two minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles up. Alternatively preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and bake the bowl for about ten minutes until bubbly and hot throughout.

Serve:

Garnish: Remove the bowl from heat and top with fresh basil or parsley if you like. This adds a fresh aroma and color to the dish. Enjoy: The bowl is best served warm for a comforting taste.

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Cottage cheese is my favorite ingredient here because it brings a light creaminess that balances the savory parmesan and tomato flavors perfectly. A memorable time was when I served this bowl after a long day and everyone was amazed at how quickly it came together while still tasting restaurant quality.

Storage Tips

Keep leftovers in an airtight container refrigerated for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave stirring halfway to ensure even heating. For longer storage divide into portions and freeze unheated then bake or microwave when ready.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap chicken breast with cooked turkey, chicken thighs, or lean ground beef to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Use Greek yogurt in place of cottage cheese for a tangier flavor or ricotta cheese for a richer texture. Try different cheeses such as provolone or fontina for a unique twist on the classic parmesan topping.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this bowl with a simple green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil to lighten the meal. Add a side of garlic bread or roasted vegetables for extra comfort and fiber. Consider serving with steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach mixed right into the bowl for added nutrition.

Cultural Context

Chicken parmesan is a beloved Italian-American dish. Originally made with breaded chicken cutlets topped with tomato sauce and cheese, this protein-packed bowl reinterprets the classic with cottage cheese for a more health-conscious but still flavorful experience. It’s a great example of how traditional recipes can be adapted for modern nutritional needs.

Pro Tips

Toast your Italian seasoning briefly in a dry pan before mixing it with chicken to intensify the herb flavors. If using the oven method cover the bowl with foil for the first half of baking to prevent over-browning the cheese. Let the bowl rest for a minute after heating to allow the flavors to meld and the cheese to set slightly which improves texture.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooked chicken breast?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works well and saves preparation time while maintaining great flavor.

→ What are good vegetables to add for extra nutrition?

Steamed broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers complement the dish nicely and add freshness.

→ How long does it take to prepare and heat this bowl?

Preparation takes about 10 minutes, with an additional 1-10 minutes for heating, depending on microwave or oven use.

→ Can I substitute chicken with other proteins?

Turkey or lean ground beef are great alternatives to vary flavors and textures.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheat before serving.