This Cottage Cheese Chicken Parm Bowl turns classic comfort food into a quick, protein-packed weeknight win. It’s creamy, cheesy, and ready in about 25 minutes using ingredients you probably already have in your fridge.
I remember the first time I threw this together on a particularly chaotic Tuesday evening. Soccer practice ran late, homework needed attention, and I was staring at a nearly empty fridge wondering what I could possibly make that wouldn’t involve takeout. That’s when I spotted some leftover chicken nuggets and cottage cheese, and this bowl was born. Now it’s one of those recipes I turn to when I need something satisfying fast, and my kids actually finish their plates without complaint. The cottage cheese adds serious protein while keeping things creamy, and the whole thing comes together right in the microwave.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Cottage Cheese Chicken Parm Bowl
I always keep Good Culture cottage cheese on hand because the consistency is perfect for these kinds of bowls. The full-fat version creates that rich, creamy base that makes this recipe feel indulgent while still being packed with protein. Here’s what you’ll need to make one satisfying bowl.
- 4-6 Just Bare chicken nuggets (about 1 serving, air-fried according to package directions)
- 1 cup Good Culture cottage cheese – I recommend full-fat for the richest flavor
- 1/4 cup Rao’s marinara sauce (or your favorite brand)
- 1/4 cup part-skim shredded mozzarella – My preference is freshly shredded for better melting
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or to taste)
- 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder (or to taste) – I usually add a bit extra for bolder flavor
- Optional: fresh basil or parsley for garnish
- Optional: grated parmesan cheese for topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
I recommend letting your cottage cheese sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before starting. This helps everything blend more smoothly and prevents any curdling when you heat it up.
Step 1: Start by air-frying your chicken nuggets according to package directions (typically 12-15 minutes at 400°F), checking them about 2 minutes early to avoid overcooking. They should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. While they’re cooking, grab your microwave-safe bowl and combine the cottage cheese, marinara sauce, half of the mozzarella, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Stir everything together until the red sauce swirls through the white cottage cheese.
Step 2: Microwave the cottage cheese mixture on high for 1 minute, stopping halfway through to give it a good stir. This ensures even heating and helps the cheese start to melt. The mixture should be warm throughout with small bubbles forming around the edges and steam rising from the surface.
Step 3: Once your chicken nuggets are golden and crispy, let them cool for just a minute so they’re easier to handle, then cut them into bite-sized pieces. Stir the chicken pieces into your warm cottage cheese mixture, making sure each piece gets coated in that creamy, cheesy sauce.
Step 4: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella on top and microwave for another 30 seconds, or until the cheese is completely melted and starting to turn golden in spots. The mozzarella should be gooey and stretchy. Give it one final stir before serving, being careful as the bowl will be hot.
Perfect Pairings for Cottage Cheese Chicken Parm Bowl
This protein-packed bowl is hearty on its own, but pairing it with the right sides creates a complete, balanced meal.
Simple Green Salad: A crisp romaine salad with Italian dressing cuts through the richness of the cheese and adds fresh crunch that balances the creamy texture of the bowl.
Garlic Bread Rolls: These homemade garlic bread rolls are perfect for scooping up every last bit of that cheesy sauce, and they add a satisfying carb element to round out the meal.
Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted broccoli or zucchini seasoned with olive oil and garlic powder. The slightly charred vegetables add texture contrast and boost the nutritional value without much extra effort.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: Serve this cottage cheese bowl over a bed of this creamy pasta to make it stretch further and create a more traditional chicken parm experience that’s still lighter than the fried version.
Loaded Veggie Baked Ziti: Pair with this veggie-packed pasta for a complete Italian-inspired dinner that brings even more vegetables to the table.
Caesar Salad: The tangy, creamy dressing and crunchy romaine complement the Italian flavors while adding freshness to your plate.
Keeping It Fresh
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld together beautifully overnight, making leftovers just as delicious as the original meal. If meal prepping, the cottage cheese mixture keeps for 3 days and cooked chicken stays fresh for 4 days when stored separately.
When reheating, microwave for 60 to 90 seconds, stirring halfway through until everything is heated evenly and the cheese is melted again. If you’re meal prepping, consider storing the chicken separately from the cottage cheese mixture to maintain the best texture and keep the chicken from getting soggy.
This bowl is incredibly versatile too. Try it over different pasta shapes, swap marinara for pesto, or add sautéed spinach for extra vegetables. The basic formula works with whatever you have on hand.
FAQs
Can I use regular chicken instead of nuggets?
Absolutely. Leftover rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken breast, or homemade baked chicken tenders all work perfectly. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces before mixing.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
No problem. Bake the chicken nuggets in your oven according to package directions, or use any leftover cooked chicken you already have. The method doesn’t matter as long as the chicken is hot and ready to stir in.
Can I make this ahead for meal prep?
Yes, but store the components separately. Keep the cottage cheese mixture in one container and the cooked chicken in another. Combine and heat when ready to eat for the best texture and freshness.
Cottage Cheese Chicken Parm Bowl
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by air-frying chicken nuggets according to package directions (typically 12-15 minutes at 400°F), checking them about 2 minutes early to avoid overcooking. They should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. While they’re cooking, combine cottage cheese, marinara sauce, half of the mozzarella, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Microwave the cottage cheese mixture on high for 1 minute, stirring halfway through. The mixture should be warm throughout with small bubbles forming around the edges.
- Cut the cooked chicken nuggets into bite-sized pieces and stir them into the warm cottage cheese mixture until well coated.
- Sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top and microwave for 30 seconds, or until cheese is completely melted and starting to turn golden. Stir once more before serving.
Notes
