Introduction
This Easy Cottage Cheese Chicken Parm Bowl is a delightful twist on a classic favorite, combining creamy cottage cheese with tender shredded chicken and melty cheese. It’s an incredibly satisfying meal that comes together in just over half an hour.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Cooked pasta or zucchini noodles (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cottage cheese, marinara sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top of the chicken mixture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Serve over cooked pasta or zucchini noodles if desired, and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Notes or Tips
- For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in Italian dressing before shredding.
- This dish can easily be made ahead of time and heated just before serving.
- Feel free to substitute the marinara sauce with your favorite pasta sauce for a different twist.
Cooking Techniques
The key to this dish is the layering of flavors. By mixing the cottage cheese with the chicken and seasonings, you create a rich and creamy base that holds up beautifully during baking. The final touch of melted cheese creates a luscious, satisfying topping that everyone will love.
FAQ
- Can I use cooked rotisserie chicken for this recipe? Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option.
- Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian? Absolutely! Just replace the chicken with sautéed vegetables or plant-based protein.
- Can I prepare this dish in advance? Yes, you can assemble the dish a day ahead and then bake it when ready to eat.
Conclusion
This Easy Cottage Cheese Chicken Parm Bowl is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor and comfort. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the wholesome goodness and the joy of a delicious homemade meal!