High protein chicken Parmesan with cottage cheese—healthy, flavorful, and packed with nutrients for a satisfying, low-carb dinner option!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- High in protein and low in carbs
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- Simple, wholesome ingredients
- Baked, not fried
- Great for meal prep
- Kid-friendly and customizable
- No breadcrumbs needed
- Gluten-free option
- Deliciously cheesy and savory
- Balanced and satisfying
Ingredients
- 3 chicken breasts, tenderized
- 2 tsp olive oil
- Salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian herb blend (to season)
- ½ heaping cup marinara sauce (divided)
- ½ heaping cup cottage cheese (divided)
- 4 oz freshly grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
- Optional garnish: fresh parsley and chili pepper flakes
Directions
- Preheat oven to 425 °F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place tenderized chicken breasts on the sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season both sides generously with salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian herb blend.
- Bake for about 15 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 165 °F.
- Remove chicken from oven. Top each breast with marinara sauce, then divide the cottage cheese evenly (about 2–3 tablespoons per breast), and sprinkle with Parmesan.
- Return to oven and bake for an additional 5–7 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and chili pepper flakes, if desired.
Servings And Timing
- Servings: 3
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 312 kcal per serving
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350 °F for 10-12 minutes or microwave in 30-second increments until heated through.
FAQs
What makes this version of chicken Parmesan high in protein?
This version uses lean chicken breasts and protein-rich cottage cheese, significantly boosting the protein content while keeping calories moderate.
Can I use shredded mozzarella instead of Parmesan?
Yes, you can substitute mozzarella for Parmesan if you prefer a meltier, stretchier cheese texture.
Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?
Absolutely. Without breading or pasta, this dish is naturally low in carbohydrates.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes. Bake the chicken and add toppings later before a quick reheat for best texture and flavor.
What kind of marinara sauce works best?
Use a low-sugar or no-sugar-added marinara for a healthier version. Homemade or store-bought both work.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can try dairy-free cottage cheese alternatives and use nutritional yeast or dairy-free Parmesan.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, though the texture of cottage cheese may change slightly. Freeze in airtight containers and reheat thoroughly.
What side dishes pair well with this meal?
Roasted vegetables, zoodles, a green salad, or cauliflower rice are great options.
Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Yes, though cooking times may vary. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165 °F.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Definitely. It stores and reheats well, making it ideal for prepping lunches or dinners in advance.
Conclusion
This High Protein Chicken Parmesan with Cottage Cheese is a smart and satisfying way to enjoy a classic comfort food. With its fast prep, wholesome ingredients, and delicious flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll return to time and time again—whether for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal prep staple.
Keep the High-Protein Goodness Going
Loved this High-Protein Chicken Parmesan With Cottage Cheese? Keep your meals tasty and protein-rich with more easy recipes from our collection. Try the One-Pan Chicken Parmesan & Cauliflower Steaks for a simple sheet-pan dinner with bold Italian flavor. Looking for a meat-free but satisfying option? The Cauliflower Fried Rice – Low Carb & Keto-Friendly is perfect for weekly meal prep. For a quick, flavorful veggie-based side, the Protein-Packed Avocado Chickpea Salad brings freshness and texture. Craving something cozy but low-effort? Our Low Effort Pineapple Juice Cake Under 250 Calories offers a sweet finish. And don’t miss the Low-Carb Greek Yogurt Almond Cake — a perfect healthy dessert to complement your protein-rich meals.
Print
High Protein Chicken Parmesan With Cottage Cheese
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings 1x
Description
High protein chicken Parmesan with cottage cheese—healthy, flavorful, and packed with nutrients for a satisfying, low-carb dinner option!
Ingredients
3 chicken breasts, tenderized
2 tsp olive oil
Salt, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian herb blend (to season)
½ heaping cup marinara sauce (divided)
½ heaping cup cottage cheese (divided)
4 oz freshly grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
Optional garnish: fresh parsley and chili pepper flakes
Instructions
Preheat oven to 425 °F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
Place chicken breasts on the sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season both sides with salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian herb blend.
Bake for about 15 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165 °F.
Remove from oven and top each breast with marinara sauce, cottage cheese (2–3 tbsp per breast), and Parmesan cheese.
Return to oven and bake an additional 5–7 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with fresh parsley and chili pepper flakes if desired.
Notes
Tenderize the chicken for even cooking and juiciness.
Use full-fat cottage cheese for extra creaminess.
You can substitute marinara with spicy arrabbiata sauce for more heat.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: High Protein
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American