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High-Protein Chicken Parmesan Bowl with Cottage Cheese

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Introduction

The High-Protein Chicken Parmesan Bowl with Cottage Cheese is a modern twist on the classic Italian-American Chicken Parmesan. This dish is perfect for health-conscious food lovers who want a protein-packed meal without sacrificing flavor. Combining tender chicken, creamy cottage cheese, and Parmesan, this recipe delivers a rich, satisfying taste while offering numerous health benefits. Whether you’re meal prepping or enjoying a hearty dinner, this dish is bound to win hearts.

Chicken Parmesan Bowl with Cottage Cheese
Origin of Chicken Parmesan

Chicken Parmesan, or Pollo alla Parmigiana, originated in Italian-American cuisine. It is inspired by traditional Italian dishes like Eggplant Parmesan but adapted to include chicken for its popularity in the U.S. Over time, variations such as baked and healthier versions emerged, including this high-protein adaptation.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken cutlets (6 oz each)

  • 3/4 cup chicken bone broth

  • 1/2 cup heavy cream

  • 1/4 cup whole milk cottage cheese

  • 2 tbsp sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)

  • 2 tbsp finely grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 tsp tomato paste

  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

  • 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter

  • 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped

  • 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes

  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves (torn)

Method of Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Blend chicken bone broth, heavy cream, cottage cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, and tomato paste until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Pat chicken cutlets dry and season with salt and pepper. Dust them with flour and Italian seasoning, pressing lightly to adhere.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken cutlets until golden brown on both sides (about 5 minutes per side). Transfer to a plate to rest.

Step 4: Make the Base

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium-low heat. Sauté garlic and red pepper flakes until fragrant (about 30 seconds).

Step 5: Combine Sauce and Chicken

Return chicken to the skillet along with any juices. Pour the blended sauce over the chicken. Add torn basil leaves and simmer for 5–7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 6: Serve

Plate the chicken and top with additional grated Parmesan and basil leaves.

Serving Tips

  • Serve over cooked quinoa or whole-grain pasta for added texture.

  • Pair with a green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

  • Garnish with fresh basil for an aromatic finish.

Health Benefits of Ingredients

  1. Chicken: A lean source of protein that supports muscle growth and repair.

  2. Cottage Cheese: Packed with casein protein and calcium, it aids in bone health.

  3. Parmesan Cheese: Rich in calcium and adds umami flavor.

  4. Sun-Dried Tomatoes: High in antioxidants like lycopene.

  5. Basil: Contains essential vitamins like A and K along with anti-inflammatory properties.

Cooking Tips

  1. Use thin chicken cutlets for even cooking.

  2. Blend cottage cheese thoroughly to avoid grainy texture in the sauce.

  3. Don’t overcook the chicken to maintain its tenderness.

  4. Adjust seasoning as needed after combining all ingredients.

Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Skipping the blending step can result in a lumpy sauce.

  2. Overcrowding the skillet may prevent proper browning of the chicken.

  3. Using pre-shredded Parmesan may compromise flavor; opt for freshly grated.

Interesting Facts

  • Cottage cheese has been gaining popularity as a high-protein alternative in recipes due to its versatility.

  • Chicken Parmesan is often considered comfort food due to its rich flavors and crispy textures.

  • This dish can be customized by adding vegetables like spinach or zucchini for more nutrients.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

This recipe combines indulgence with nutrition, making it ideal for fitness enthusiasts and foodies alike. The creamy sauce infused with cottage cheese delivers a unique twist while maintaining classic flavors that everyone loves.

Summarized Recipe

  1. Blend sauce ingredients (broth, cream, cottage cheese, tomatoes, Parmesan, tomato paste).

  2. Season thin chicken cutlets with flour and Italian seasoning; cook them until golden brown.

  3. Sauté garlic and red pepper flakes; combine cooked chicken with sauce in skillet.

  4. Simmer until thickened; garnish with basil and serve hot.

Enjoy this protein-packed delight that’s both wholesome and flavorful!

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