Chicken Parm Cottage Cheese Bowl Recipe
Introduction
This Chicken Parm Cottage Cheese Bowl is a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy days. Combining tender chicken, tangy marinara, and creamy cottage cheese creates a comforting dish with a fresh twist on classic chicken parmesan.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked chicken, diced or shredded
- ½ cup marinara sauce
- ½ cup cottage cheese (small curd)
- ¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tbsp Parmesan cheese, grated
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- Pinch of salt & pepper
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh basil (optional for topping)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a skillet or microwave-safe bowl, heat the diced chicken and marinara sauce together until hot, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Step 2: Spoon the cottage cheese into the bottom of your serving bowl to create a creamy base layer.
- Step 3: Add the hot chicken and marinara mixture over the cottage cheese layer, spreading evenly.
- Step 4: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top, then microwave for 30 to 45 seconds or until the cheese melts.
- Step 5: Finish by sprinkling Italian seasoning, a pinch of salt and pepper, and chopped fresh basil if desired.
Tips & Variations
- Use low-fat or regular cottage cheese depending on your preference for creaminess.
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes before microwaving.
- Try swapping marinara with a spicy arrabbiata sauce for more flavor.
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave until warmed through, stirring halfway to ensure even heating. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but reheats well.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use raw chicken for this recipe?
No, it is important to use cooked chicken for this dish as the heating step only warms the ingredients; it does not cook raw meat safely.
Can I prepare this recipe without a microwave?
Yes, you can heat the chicken and marinara mixture in a skillet and then assemble the bowl. To melt the cheese, place the bowl briefly under a broiler or in a preheated oven until the cheese softens.
PrintChicken Parm Cottage Cheese Bowl Recipe
A delicious and comforting Chicken Parm Cottage Cheese Bowl that combines tender cooked chicken simmered in marinara sauce with creamy cottage cheese and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Topped with Italian seasoning and fresh basil, this easy recipe is perfect for a quick, protein-packed meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Microwave
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Chicken and Sauce
- 1 cup cooked chicken, diced or shredded
- ½ cup marinara sauce
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- Pinch of salt & pepper
Cheese
- ½ cup cottage cheese (small curd)
- ¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tbsp Parmesan cheese, grated
Garnish
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh basil (optional for topping)
Instructions
- Heat the Chicken & Sauce: In a skillet over medium heat or microwave-safe bowl, heat the diced chicken and marinara sauce until hot and simmering, about 2–3 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and that the sauce bubbles slightly and coats the chicken well.
- Layer the Cottage Cheese: Spoon the cottage cheese into the bottom of a serving bowl to create a creamy base layer for the dish.
- Add Chicken & Sauce Mixture: Carefully spoon the hot chicken and marinara sauce mixture over the layer of cottage cheese, creating a flavorful, contrasting layer.
- Sprinkle Mozzarella & Parmesan: Top the chicken and sauce with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Place the bowl in a microwave and heat for 30–45 seconds until the cheeses melt and become bubbly.
- Add Seasoning & Garnish: Sprinkle the dish with Italian seasoning, a pinch of salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with freshly chopped basil if desired. Serve warm and enjoy.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh basil with dried basil if fresh is unavailable.
- Use low-fat cottage cheese to reduce calories and fat content.
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the seasoning.
- Microwave times may vary depending on your microwave power.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated.
Keywords: chicken parm, cottage cheese bowl, quick chicken recipe, healthy chicken dish, easy dinner, mozzarella cheese, parmesan, marinara sauce
