Description
A lighter take on chicken Parmesan featuring creamy cottage cheese, tangy marinara, and melted mozzarella, perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (about 2 medium breasts)
- 2 cups low-fat cottage cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1–2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Pat chicken dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add 1 tbsp olive oil. When the oil shimmers, add the chicken. Cook 6–7 minutes per side until well browned and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken and let it rest for 5 minutes.
- In the same skillet, pour in the marinara sauce and scrape up browned bits with a wooden spoon. Reduce heat to low.
- Stir in the cottage cheese until combined and warmed through, about 2–3 minutes.
- Slice the rested chicken against the grain and place the slices in an oven-safe bowl or small casserole dish.
- Pour the cottage cheese–marinara mixture over the chicken and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden. Optionally, broil for 1–2 minutes for extra browning.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve.
Notes
For a smoother sauce, blend the cottage cheese briefly before adding. Can substitute with full-fat or part-skim cottage cheese, and use chicken thighs if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian