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Healthy High Protein Cottage Cheese Chicken Recipe Easy Homemade Dinner Idea

healthy high protein cottage cheese chicken - featured image

A quick and easy high-protein chicken recipe featuring a creamy cottage cheese marinade that keeps the chicken tender and flavorful without heaviness.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds or 680 grams)
  • 1 cup (8 oz or 240 ml) full-fat or low-fat small-curd cottage cheese
  • 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ cup (1 oz or 25 grams) freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • A small handful fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a medium bowl, combine cottage cheese, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, dried thyme, dried oregano, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk or stir vigorously until mostly smooth.
  3. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Place them in the bowl and spoon the cottage cheese mixture over each piece, ensuring even coverage. Marinate for 20 minutes at room temperature or up to 2 hours in the fridge if time allows.
  4. Transfer the coated chicken breasts to a greased 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking dish or oven-safe skillet. Spread any leftover marinade on top.
  5. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the chicken.
  6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the topping is lightly browned and bubbling.
  7. Remove from oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

Patting the chicken dry helps the marinade stick better and promotes a nice crust. Whisk the marinade well to avoid clumps. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for juiciness. For a crispier finish, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end but watch carefully to avoid burning. If cottage cheese is too watery, drain slightly before mixing. Marinating for at least 20 minutes improves flavor but is optional.

Nutrition

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