Cottage Cheese Chicken Bake: Creamy, High-Protein, One-Dish Wonder Recipe

Introduction

This Cottage Cheese Chicken Bake is a creamy, high-protein, one-dish wonder that’s both comforting and easy to make. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, it’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (similar size for even cooking)
• 1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Olive oil spray, for greasing the dish
• Optional garnish: chopped parsley or chives

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray an 8×8-inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Step 2: Add cottage cheese, Parmesan, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to a blender. Blend for 30–45 seconds, scraping down the sides if needed, until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
3. Step 3: Place the chicken breasts evenly in the prepared baking dish. Pour the blended sauce evenly over the chicken, making sure each piece is fully coated.
4. Step 4: Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the sauce bubbles with light golden spots on top.
5. Step 5: Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives if desired.

Tips & Variations

• For a richer flavor, use full-fat cottage cheese, but low-fat works well for a lighter dish.
• Try adding a handful of chopped spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce before blending for extra nutrition and color.
• If you prefer a crispy topping, sprinkle additional Parmesan over the chicken during the last 5 minutes of baking.
• Serve with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Storage

Store leftover chicken bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Avoid overcooking during reheating to keep the chicken tender and the sauce creamy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese instead of Parmesan?

Yes, you can substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a different but complementary flavor. Avoid very soft cheeses as they may alter the sauce texture.

Is it necessary to blend the sauce?

Blending ensures the cottage cheese mixture is smooth and creamy, which coats the chicken evenly and creates a luscious texture. If you prefer a chunkier sauce, you can skip blending, but the texture will be different.

Cottage Cheese Chicken Bake: Creamy, High-Protein, One-Dish Wonder Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 133 reviews

This Cottage Cheese Chicken Bake is a creamy, high-protein, one-dish meal featuring tender chicken breasts baked in a smooth blend of cottage cheese, Parmesan, and spices. It’s an easy, flavorful dinner option that’s perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or meal prep.

• Author: Lena
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (similar size for even cooking)

Sauce

• 1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Other

• Olive oil spray, for greasing the dish
• Optional garnish: chopped parsley or chives

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly spray an 8×8-inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Blend the sauce: In a blender, combine the cottage cheese, Parmesan cheese, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Blend for 30–45 seconds, scraping down the sides as needed, until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy.
3. Assemble: Arrange the chicken breasts evenly in the prepared baking dish. Pour the blended sauce evenly over the chicken, making sure each piece is fully coated with the creamy mixture.
4. Bake: Place the dish uncovered in the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the sauce is bubbling with light golden spots on top.
5. Rest and serve: Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes to allow the chicken juices to redistribute. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives if desired before serving.

Notes

• Use chicken breasts of similar size to ensure even cooking.
• For a lower-fat version, use low-fat or fat-free cottage cheese and Parmesan.
• Check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure doneness.
• Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal.

Keywords: Cottage Cheese Chicken Bake, creamy chicken bake, high protein chicken recipe, healthy baked chicken, easy dinner, one dish chicken