Let me tell you about my absolute favorite cozy meal: the Chicken Parm Cottage Cheese Bowl! It’s like a warm hug in a bowl—so hearty and packed with flavor! I stumbled upon this recipe on a busy weeknight when I wanted something nutritious without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of protein-rich cottage cheese, tender chicken, and zesty marinara sauce makes it not just filling but also super satisfying.

Honestly, every time I make this, I can’t help but smile. The gooey melted cheese on top just makes everything feel indulgent, even though it’s actually quite healthy! Plus, if you’ve got leftover chicken, you can whip this up in no time. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself coming back for seconds—or even thirds! It’s a dish that’s as comforting as a good movie on a rainy day, and I know you’re going to love it just like I do!

Ingredients List

1 cup cottage cheese: Use full-fat or low-fat, depending on your preference. This creamy base brings a delightful texture to the bowl.
1 cup cooked chicken, diced: Perfect for using up leftovers! Grilled or rotisserie chicken works wonders here.
1/2 cup marinara sauce: Choose your favorite store-bought or homemade sauce. The more flavorful, the better!
1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: This adds that gooey, melty goodness that we all crave in a Chicken Parm dish.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: For that extra punch of flavor! It really elevates the dish.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A sprinkle of this mix adds a lovely herby aroma—trust me, it makes a difference!
Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t forget to season; it really brings all the flavors together!

How to Prepare the Chicken Parm Cottage Cheese Bowl

First things first, grab a mixing bowl and combine the cottage cheese with the Italian seasoning. I like to get in there and really mix it well so that every bite is packed with flavor!
Next, toss in your diced chicken and give it a good stir. Make sure everything is coated nicely in that herby goodness. It’s starting to smell amazing already!
Now, let’s heat things up! In a saucepan over medium heat, pour in your marinara sauce. Stir it occasionally until it’s warmed through—this usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
Once the sauce is nice and hot, pour it over the chicken and cottage cheese mixture. Give it another gentle mix to ensure everything is well combined.
Now comes the fun part! Top the mixture with the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. I like to sprinkle it on generously because who can resist extra cheese, right?
Preheat your oven’s broiler. Then, place the bowl in the oven and broil for about 5-7 minutes. Keep an eye on it, as you want that cheese to melt and get all bubbly and golden without burning!
Once it’s ready, carefully take it out of the oven—watch out, it’s hot! Serve your Chicken Parm Cottage Cheese Bowl immediately and enjoy every cheesy, savory bite!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Parm Cottage Cheese Bowl

Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something tasty without all the fuss.
High Protein Content: With a whopping 40 grams of protein per serving, this bowl will keep you satisfied and energized—perfect for post-workout meals!
Delicious Flavors: The rich marinara, creamy cottage cheese, and melty cheeses create a flavor explosion that’ll make your taste buds dance!
Comfort Food Vibes: It’s like a warm hug in a bowl! This dish feels indulgent yet healthy, satisfying your cravings without the guilt.
Customizable: Whether you want to add extra veggies or switch up the cheeses, this recipe is super flexible to fit your mood or pantry!
Perfect for Leftovers: Got leftover chicken? This is the ideal way to use it up and transform it into something new and exciting!

Tips for Success with Your Chicken Parm Cottage Cheese Bowl

Alright, let’s make sure your Chicken Parm Cottage Cheese Bowl turns out as amazing as possible! Here are some of my favorite tips to elevate this dish:

Use Leftover Chicken: This recipe is fantastic for using up leftover chicken! Rotisserie chicken works like a charm—just grab it from the fridge, dice it up, and you’re ready to go!
Season to Taste: Don’t be shy with the seasoning! Taste your cottage cheese mixture before adding the sauce. If it needs a little extra salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning, go for it! Everyone’s taste buds are different, so adjust accordingly.
Mix Up the Cheeses: While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic, feel free to experiment! Try adding provolone for a different flavor or even some goat cheese for a tangy twist!
Add Veggies: Want to sneak in some greens? Toss in some spinach or sautéed mushrooms when you mix in the chicken. They’ll add flavor and nutrition without much effort!
Broiling Tips: Keep a close eye on the broiler! It can go from perfectly melted to burnt pretty quickly. I like to set a timer for 5 minutes and then peek in to see how it’s doing.
Serving Suggestions: Serve your bowl with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. The freshness of a salad perfectly balances the richness of the Chicken Parm Cottage Cheese Bowl!

With these tips, you’re all set to create a deliciously satisfying meal that’ll impress everyone at the table. Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Variations of the Chicken Parm Cottage Cheese Bowl

If you’re anything like me, you love a recipe that’s flexible and can be customized to fit your taste buds or what you have on hand. So let’s dive into some fun variations for this Chicken Parm Cottage Cheese Bowl that’ll keep things exciting!

Different Cheeses: Switch up the cheese game! Try using fontina or asiago for a unique twist. They melt beautifully and offer a rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the chicken and marinara.
Add Veggies: Sneak in some nutrition by tossing in spinach, zucchini, or even bell peppers! Just sauté them a bit before adding to the mix for extra flavor and soft texture.
Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or use a spicy marinara sauce. It’ll elevate the dish and give it that extra zing that some of us crave!
Pasta Twist: For a heartier meal, serve your chicken parm mixture over a bed of cooked pasta or zoodles (zucchini noodles). It’s a great way to bulk it up and make it feel more like a traditional pasta dish.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs! Toss in some basil or oregano right before serving for a burst of freshness that’ll brighten up the flavors.
Meat Alternatives: For a vegetarian spin, swap out the chicken for chickpeas or tofu. Just make sure to season them well so they soak up all that delicious marinara and cheese goodness!

These variations are just a starting point! Feel free to get creative with what you have in your fridge or what flavors you’re in the mood for. The best part about this Chicken Parm Cottage Cheese Bowl is that it’s all about making it your own!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve made this delicious Chicken Parm Cottage Cheese Bowl, and you’ve got some leftovers? First off, high five to you for enjoying this meal! Now, let’s talk about how to store and reheat it so it stays just as tasty for your next meal.

To store your leftovers, let the bowl cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s sealed tightly to prevent any funky fridge odors from creeping in!

When you’re ready to reheat, you have a couple of options. The microwave is the quickest route. Just pop your bowl in for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. Keep an eye on it, though—you want it heated through but not overcooked! If you prefer that cheesy top to be extra melty and bubbly, you can also reheat it in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), cover the bowl with aluminum foil to keep it from drying out, and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until it’s warmed all the way through.

Remember, the key here is to enjoy those leftovers while they’re still delicious! Whether you’re diving back in right away or saving some for later, this Chicken Parm Cottage Cheese Bowl is sure to keep you satisfied. Happy eating!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s chat about the nutritional goodness packed into each serving of this Chicken Parm Cottage Cheese Bowl. It’s not just delicious; it’s also a smart choice for your health! Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional values:

Calories: 350
Protein: 40g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 800mg
Cholesterol: 100mg

Keep in mind, these values are estimates based on the ingredients used, and they can vary depending on specific brands and preparation methods. But one thing’s for sure: with all that protein and flavor, you’re in for a satisfying meal that won’t weigh you down! Enjoy every bite, knowing you’re treating your body right!

FAQ Section

Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked chicken?
Absolutely! If you have fresh chicken, just cook it first (grilled or sautéed works great) before adding it to the bowl. It’s a delicious way to enjoy this meal with freshly cooked protein!

What type of marinara sauce should I use?
You can use any marinara sauce you love! I usually grab my favorite store-bought brand, but homemade is always a wonderful option if you have the time. Just make sure it’s flavorful to elevate the dish!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, definitely! This Chicken Parm Cottage Cheese Bowl is super meal prep-friendly. Just make the mixture, store it in separate containers, and then reheat when you’re ready to dig in!

Can I make this dish vegetarian?
For sure! Swap the chicken for chickpeas or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian option. Just adjust the seasoning to make sure it’s still bursting with flavor!

How can I make this dish spicier?
If you’re feeling adventurous, add some red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or even use a spicy marinara. It’ll give that extra kick that’ll have your taste buds dancing!

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers! Just make sure to store them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it in the oven or microwave. Just note that the texture may change slightly after freezing.

What can I serve with this Chicken Parm Cottage Cheese Bowl?
I love serving this dish with a crisp side salad or some garlic bread for dipping. Both are great companions that add freshness and balance to the meal!

Chicken Parm Cottage Cheese Bowl: 7 Comforting Reasons to Love

Author: [email protected]
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 2 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: High Protein

Print Recipe

Description

A hearty and nutritious Chicken Parm Cottage Cheese Bowl that combines protein-rich cottage cheese with flavorful chicken and marinara sauce.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup cottage cheese
1 cup cooked chicken, diced
1/2 cup marinara sauce
1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

In a bowl, combine cottage cheese and Italian seasoning.
Add diced chicken and mix well.
Heat marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat.
Pour marinara sauce over the chicken mixture.
Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Place in the oven and broil for 5-7 minutes until cheese is melted.
Serve hot and enjoy.

Notes

You can use leftover chicken for this recipe.
Adjust seasoning to your taste.
Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 350
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 40g
Cholesterol: 100mg

Keywords: Chicken Parm Cottage Cheese Bowl

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