If you’re on the hunt for a meal that’s as satisfying as it is nutritious, you’ve just found a winner with this Easy High Protein Chicken Parmesan Bowl Recipe. It’s a deliciously simple dish that perfectly balances rich flavors and hearty ingredients to keep you energized and delighted. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a comforting dinner, or just a protein-packed treat, this recipe delivers on taste and ease, making it a go-to in my kitchen and hopefully yours too.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting your ingredients ready for this Easy High Protein Chicken Parmesan Bowl Recipe is straightforward, but each one plays a key role in making this dish truly memorable. From the perfectly cooked pasta to the creamy cottage cheese and savory Parmesan, every element adds flavor, texture, and that satisfying punch of protein.
- 2 ounces Dry high protein pasta: Choose a brand that packs extra protein to keep this bowl both filling and nourishing.
- 3 ounces Just Bare chicken: Tender and lean, it’s your main source of protein, cooked simply for juicy, flavorful bites.
- ½ cup Cottage cheese: Adds creaminess and a subtle tang that balances the marinara’s acidity.
- ½ cup Marinara: Use your favorite robust marinara sauce for a rich tomato base that brings the whole bowl together.
- ½ ounce Parmesan: Freshly grated is best for a salty, nutty finish that melts beautifully.
How to Make Easy High Protein Chicken Parmesan Bowl Recipe
Step 1: Cook Pasta and Chicken
Start by following the package instructions to cook your high protein pasta and Just Bare chicken. This ensures that you have perfectly cooked, tender ingredients that will form the heart of your chicken parmesan bowl.
Step 2: Combine Pasta and Half the Marinara
Once your pasta is cooked and drained, return it to a bowl and pour ¼ cup of marinara on top. This not only warms the pasta slightly but starts infusing those familiar Italian flavors right away.
Step 3: Add the Chicken and Remaining Marinara
Next, add the cooked chicken pieces on top of your sauced pasta, then cover with the remaining ¼ cup of marinara. This layering helps keep every bite juicy and flavorful.
Step 4: Sprinkle Parmesan Cheese
Now it’s time to add the Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle the ½ ounce evenly over the chicken and marinara, preparing it to melt into a gooey, delicious topping that elevates the whole bowl.
Step 5: Heat Cottage Cheese
Microwave the cottage cheese for one minute until warm. Warming the cottage cheese softens it, making it easier to mix in or dollop on top for that creamy texture we all love.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Finally, serve your Easy High Protein Chicken Parmesan Bowl Recipe while it’s nice and hot. The warm cottage cheese blends wonderfully with the melty Parmesan and savory marinara, creating an irresistible bowl that’s both hearty and comforting.
How to Serve Easy High Protein Chicken Parmesan Bowl Recipe
Garnishes
For a fresh pop of flavor, sprinkle chopped basil or parsley over the top just before serving. A crack of black pepper or a drizzle of good olive oil can also add a lovely finishing touch that brightens the bowl.
Side Dishes
If you want to complement your bowl, consider a crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables. Both add a refreshing contrast and extra veggies to your meal without stealing the spotlight.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your chicken parmesan bowl in a rustic ceramic bowl for cozy vibes, or get playful by layering it in a clear glass dish so the vibrant colors and textures shine through. It’s perfect for meal-prepping as well as impressing friends when you want to share your favorite recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers from your Easy High Protein Chicken Parmesan Bowl Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool it completely before sealing to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well if you want to save some for later. Transfer portions into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to keep the pasta moist. Heating just until warm preserves the flavors and keeps the cottage cheese creamy.
FAQs
Can I use regular pasta instead of high protein pasta?
Absolutely, you can substitute regular pasta if you prefer. While it won’t have the extra protein boost, the dish will still be delicious and comforting.
Is it necessary to microwave the cottage cheese?
Warming the cottage cheese helps it soften and blend better with the other ingredients, but if you prefer it cold or at room temperature, that works too—you’ll just get a different texture.
Can I prepare this recipe for more than one serving?
Yes, simply multiply the ingredient quantities by the number of servings you want. It’s easy to scale up and still enjoy the same great flavors.
What other cheeses can I use instead of Parmesan?
Pecorino Romano or a mild mozzarella can be great alternatives if you want to switch up the flavor profile or use what you have on hand.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free high protein pasta or your favorite gluten-free pasta to keep the dish safe without sacrificing taste or texture.
Final Thoughts
This Easy High Protein Chicken Parmesan Bowl Recipe is truly a gem when you want something nourishing, simple, and incredibly tasty. It’s perfect for busy days or whenever you crave that comforting Italian-inspired flavor without any fuss. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making it again and again, just like me!
Print
Easy High Protein Chicken Parmesan Bowl Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Microwaving and stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Easy High Protein Chicken Parmesan Bowl is a quick and nutritious meal combining high-protein pasta, tender chicken, creamy cottage cheese, and flavorful marinara sauce topped with Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner, it’s simple to prepare and ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Protein and Main Ingredients
- 2 ounces Dry high protein pasta
- 3 ounces Just Bare chicken
- ½ cup Cottage cheese
- ½ cup Marinara sauce
- ½ ounce Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook pasta and chicken: Prepare the dry high protein pasta and cook the Just Bare chicken according to their respective package instructions until both are tender and fully cooked.
- Prepare pasta with marinara: Drain the cooked pasta and place it in a bowl. Add ¼ cup of the marinara sauce on top of the pasta.
- Add chicken and sauce: Place the cooked chicken on top of the pasta and marinara, then cover with the remaining ¼ cup of marinara sauce.
- Top with Parmesan cheese: Sprinkle ½ ounce of Parmesan cheese evenly over the assembled bowl.
- Heat cottage cheese: Add ½ cup of cottage cheese to the bowl and microwave for 1 minute to warm the cottage cheese without overcooking it.
- Serve hot: Carefully remove from microwave and enjoy your high-protein chicken Parmesan bowl immediately while hot.
Notes
- Use high-protein pasta to boost the meal’s protein content.
- Microwaving just warms the cottage cheese gently; avoid overheating to keep its creamy texture.
- You can substitute fresh cooked chicken breasts if Just Bare chicken is unavailable.
- Adjust marinara sauce quantity to your taste preference for sauce coverage and moisture.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for added nutrients and fiber.
