High Protein Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Introduction
This High Protein Chicken Parmesan is a delicious twist on a classic favorite, perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a flavorful, satisfying meal while keeping protein intake high. Tender chicken breasts are baked and topped with a savory blend of marinara, cottage cheese, and parmesan, making it both hearty and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 3 chicken breasts, tenderized
- 2 tsp olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Garlic powder, to taste
- Onion powder, to taste
- Italian herb blend, to taste
- 1/2 heaping cup marinara sauce, divided
- 1/2 heaping cup cottage cheese, divided
- 4 oz freshly grated parmesan cheese, divided
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425℉. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Step 2: Place the tenderized chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Brush both sides with olive oil. Generously season each piece with salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and the Italian herb blend on both sides.
- Step 3: Bake the chicken for 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165℉, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and juicy.
- Step 4: Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Top each chicken breast with a portion of marinara sauce, followed by 3 tablespoons of cottage cheese, and then sprinkle generously with freshly grated parmesan.
- Step 5: Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 5 to 7 minutes, until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for 1-2 minutes after baking the cheese topping—watch closely to avoid burning.
- Substitute part of the cottage cheese with mozzarella for a creamier texture and classic flavor.
- Use fresh herbs like basil or oregano on top before serving for added freshness.
- Pair with a side of steamed vegetables or whole-grain pasta for a balanced meal.
Storage
Store any leftover chicken parmesan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350℉ for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through, to maintain the texture and flavor best.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
It’s best to use fresh or fully thawed chicken breasts to ensure even cooking and proper seasoning absorption.
Is cottage cheese necessary for the recipe?
Cottage cheese adds creaminess and extra protein, but you can substitute with ricotta or skip it if you prefer a simpler version with just marinara and parmesan.
PrintHigh Protein Chicken Parmesan Recipe
This High Protein Chicken Parmesan recipe offers a delicious and healthy twist on the classic Italian dish, featuring tenderized chicken breasts baked to perfection and topped with a combination of marinara sauce, cottage cheese, and freshly grated Parmesan. Ready in just over 20 minutes, it’s a great option for a satisfying, protein-packed meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Chicken
- 3 chicken breasts (tenderized)
- 2 tsp olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Garlic powder, to taste
- Onion powder, to taste
- Italian herb blend, to taste
Toppings
- 1/2 heaping cup marinara sauce (divided)
- 1/2 heaping cup cottage cheese (divided)
- 4 oz freshly grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425℉. Prepare a large rimmed baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Season Chicken: Place the tenderized chicken breasts on the lined baking sheet. Brush each piece with olive oil to keep them moist. Generously season both sides of the chicken with salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and Italian herb blend to infuse flavor.
- Bake Chicken: Bake the chicken breasts in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165℉, ensuring they are fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Add Toppings: Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Spread a portion of the marinara sauce evenly over each chicken breast. Then, dollop 3 tablespoons of cottage cheese on top of each, followed by a generous sprinkling of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake Again: Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the cheese is melted and slightly golden, and the toppings are heated through.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to the safe internal temperature of 165℉.
- For extra crispiness, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end but watch closely to avoid burning.
- Cottage cheese adds creaminess and extra protein but can be substituted with ricotta or mozzarella if preferred.
- Adjust herbs and seasoning to your taste for more or less bold flavors.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Keywords: High Protein Chicken Parmesan, Healthy Chicken Parmesan, Baked Chicken Parmesan, Protein Packed Dinner, Easy Chicken Parmesan
