Cottage Cheese Chicken Bake Recipe
Introduction
This Cottage Cheese Chicken Bake is a creamy, flavorful dish that’s simple to prepare and perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner. Tender chicken breasts are baked in a smooth, cheesy sauce that’s packed with subtle spices. It’s a nutritious and satisfying meal the whole family will enjoy.
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
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray an 8×8-inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Step 2: In a blender, combine the cottage cheese, Parmesan, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Blend for 30–45 seconds until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Step 3: Arrange the chicken breasts evenly in the prepared baking dish. Pour the blended sauce over the chicken, making sure each piece is fully coated.
- Step 4: Bake the chicken uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the sauce is bubbling with light golden spots on top.
- Step 5: Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives if desired before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the sauce before blending.
- Swap chicken breasts for thighs if you prefer darker meat; adjust baking time accordingly.
- Use low-fat cottage cheese to reduce calories, but full-fat yields a richer sauce.
- Serve with steamed vegetables or over rice for a complete meal.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or oven until heated through, being careful not to dry out the chicken.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish a few hours before baking. Keep it covered in the refrigerator and bake just before serving.
What can I use if I don’t have cottage cheese?
You can substitute ricotta cheese for a similar texture and flavor, though the sauce may be slightly sweeter and creamier.
PrintCottage Cheese Chicken Bake Recipe
A creamy and flavorful Cottage Cheese Chicken Bake that combines tender chicken breasts with a savory cottage cheese and Parmesan sauce, seasoned with garlic, paprika, and onion powder. This easy oven-baked dish is quick to prepare and perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
- 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
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
Others
- Olive oil spray, for greasing the dish
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley or chives
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray an 8×8-inch baking dish with olive oil spray to prevent sticking.
- Blend the sauce: In a blender, combine cottage cheese, Parmesan cheese, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Blend for 30 to 45 seconds, scraping down the sides as needed, until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy.
- Assemble: Place the chicken breasts evenly in the prepared baking dish. Pour the blended cottage cheese sauce over the chicken breasts, making sure each piece is well coated.
- Bake: Bake the chicken uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and the sauce is bubbly with light golden spots on top.
- Rest and serve: Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes so the juices redistribute. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives if desired before serving.
Notes
- Ensure chicken breasts are of similar size to cook evenly.
- You can use full-fat or low-fat cottage cheese depending on your preference.
- For extra flavor, season the chicken breasts lightly with salt and pepper before adding the sauce.
- Make sure not to cover the dish while baking to allow the sauce to develop golden spots.
- This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
Keywords: cottage cheese chicken bake, baked chicken breasts, creamy chicken recipe, healthy chicken bake, easy chicken casserole
