This Cottage Cheese Chicken Parm Bowl offers a delightful and healthy twist on the traditional chicken parmesan. By incorporating blended cottage cheese and air-fried chicken, this recipe provides a protein-rich meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. It’s a comforting dish that brings together classic Italian flavors in a nutritious way.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthier Alternative: Utilizing cottage cheese and air-fried chicken reduces fat content while maintaining rich flavors.
- Quick and Easy: With a total preparation and cooking time of around 30-40 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful: The combination of Italian seasonings, marinara sauce, and a blend of cheeses creates a deliciously satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 serving blended cottage cheese
- 1 serving air-fried chicken
- Salt
- Pepper
- Onion powder
- Garlic powder
- Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup Italian cheese blend (mozzarella, provolone, parmesan, asiago, fontina, romano)
- 1/4 cup marinara sauce
- Parsley
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat and Season the Chicken: Preheat your air fryer according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning, ensuring an even coating.
- Air Fry the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken in the preheated air fryer and cook for 15-20 minutes, depending on thickness, until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Prepare the Cottage Cheese: While the chicken cooks, heat one serving of blended cottage cheese in the microwave for up to 30 seconds. Stir in Italian seasoning and garlic to enhance the flavor.
- Assemble the Bowl: Top the warmed cottage cheese with the air-fried chicken. Sprinkle the Italian cheese blend over the chicken, then drizzle with marinara sauce.
- Melt the Cheese and Serve: Microwave the assembled bowl for an additional 15-20 seconds to melt the cheese slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields 1 serving.
- Preparation Time: 10-15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-40 minutes
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with air-fried eggplant or zucchini slices for a meatless version.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinara sauce for extra heat.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with other cheese blends, such as cheddar or gouda, to alter the flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes until warmed through, ensuring the cheese is melted and the chicken is heated properly.
FAQs
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work well. Ensure they are evenly sized for consistent cooking.
Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?
Yes, store-bought marinara sauce is convenient and works perfectly in this recipe.
Is there a substitute for cottage cheese?
Ricotta cheese can be used as a substitute, though it will alter the nutritional content slightly.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Ensure all seasonings and sauces are certified gluten-free, and avoid any breaded chicken preparations.
Can I prepare the chicken without an air fryer?
Yes, you can bake or pan-fry the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What side dishes pair well with this meal?
A fresh green salad or roasted vegetables complement this dish nicely.
How can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
Incorporate sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms into the bowl for added nutrients.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, prepare the components ahead of time and assemble when ready to eat. Store each component separately to maintain freshness.
Can I freeze leftovers?
It’s not recommended to freeze this dish, as the texture of the cottage cheese and cooked chicken may change upon thawing.
How do I blend the cottage cheese?
Use a blender or food processor to blend the cottage cheese until smooth before heating.
Conclusion
The Cottage Cheese Chicken Parm Bowl is a delightful fusion of classic Italian flavors and modern healthy twists. It’s a quick, nutritious, and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy the comforting taste of chicken parmesan with the added benefits of high-protein cottage cheese and the convenience of air-frying.
Print
Cottage Cheese Chicken Parm Bowl
- Prep Time: 10-15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-40 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Cottage Cheese Chicken Parm Bowl offers a healthier twist on traditional chicken parmesan by combining air-fried chicken and creamy blended cottage cheese. Packed with protein, Italian flavors, and melty cheese, this easy-to-make meal is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep!
Ingredients
This Cottage Cheese Chicken Parm Bowl offers a healthier twist on traditional chicken parmesan by combining air-fried chicken and creamy blended cottage cheese. Packed with protein, Italian flavors, and melty cheese, this easy-to-make meal is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep!
Instructions
- Preheat and Season the Chicken
- Preheat your air fryer according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning for an even coating.
- Air Fry the Chicken
- Place the seasoned chicken in the air fryer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Prepare the Cottage Cheese
- Blend one serving of cottage cheese until smooth. Heat it in the microwave for up to 30 seconds.
- Stir in Italian seasoning and a pinch of garlic for added flavor.
- Assemble the Bowl
- Spoon the warmed cottage cheese into the bottom of a bowl.
- Top it with the air-fried chicken.
- Sprinkle the Italian cheese blend over the chicken and drizzle with marinara sauce.
- Melt the Cheese and Serve
- Microwave the bowl for 15-20 seconds to slightly melt the cheese.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Substitute air-fried chicken with baked or pan-fried chicken if an air fryer isn’t available.
- Ricotta cheese can be used instead of cottage cheese for a smoother texture, though it alters the nutritional profile.
- Add a spicy kick with red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
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