This Healthy Cottage Cheese Chicken Parm Bowl brings together tender chicken and creamy cottage cheese, topped with zesty marinara sauce and melted cheese. It’s a tasty twist on the classic!
I love how easy this dish is to make. Just bake the chicken, add the toppings, and you’re all set for a meal that’s both delicious and healthy. It’s perfect for busy days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Diced chicken breast is lean and cooks quickly. For a different flavor, try turkey breast or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option. Both work well in absorbing the dish’s flavors.
Cottage Cheese: This is a key ingredient for creaminess without the extra calories. If you’re lactose intolerant, consider using dairy-free cottage cheese or ricotta as alternatives. I love the texture of cottage cheese, but ricotta adds a nice touch too!
Marinara Sauce: Using a low-sugar marinara keeps the dish healthy. If you want to switch things up, try a homemade tomato sauce with fresh herbs or even a pesto for a twist.
Zucchini: Zucchini adds a nice crunch and is a great way to sneak in veggies. You could easily swap in other vegetables like bell pepper or spinach, depending on what you have on hand.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan gives a delicious salty kick. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the milk!
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken just right is crucial. First, ensure it’s cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. Heat your skillet and add oil before the chicken goes in.
- Add the chicken to the skillet only once onions and peppers are soft.
- Season it early with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. This builds flavor!
- Stir occasionally and cook until there’s no pink left, usually about 5-7 minutes.
Using a meat thermometer can help; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety. Happy cooking!
How to Make a Healthy Cottage Cheese Chicken Parm Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Parm Bowl:
- 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, diced
- 2 cups cottage cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce (preferably low-sugar)
- 1 cup zucchini, diced
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 20 minutes to cook, giving you a total time of about 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick and healthy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. This will make your kitchen smell delicious!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Next, add the diced chicken breast to the skillet. Season it with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Cook everything together for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink and is cooked through.
3. Add the Zucchini and Marinara Sauce:
Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the diced zucchini and marinara sauce. Let this mixture simmer on low for about 5 minutes. You want the zucchini to be nice and tender but still have a bit of crunch.
4. Stir in the Cottage Cheese:
Remove the skillet from heat and add in the cottage cheese. Gently mix everything until well combined—you want all those wonderful flavors to blend together!
5. Serve and Garnish:
Now, it’s time to serve! Transfer the chicken and vegetable mixture into a bowl. Top it off with the grated Parmesan cheese and some fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor.
6. Enjoy Your Meal!
Dig in while it’s warm and enjoy your healthy cottage cheese chicken parm bowl! It’s nutritious, delicious, and quick to make—perfect for any night of the week!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of cottage cheese, you can substitute it with ricotta or Greek yogurt for a creamy texture. Just make sure to use a low-fat version to keep it healthy.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Recipe?
Yes, feel free to pick your favorites! Spinach, mushrooms, or even broccoli would work well. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly based on how quick they cook compared to zucchini.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave it in a covered bowl to keep the moisture in, or warm it up in a skillet over low heat until heated through.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the chicken and vegetable mixture in advance, and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just mix in the cottage cheese right before serving to keep its texture fresh!
