This Spinach Artichoke Chicken with Cottage Cheese is a creamy, protein-rich dish that offers a healthier twist on traditional creamy chicken recipes. With tender chicken, fresh spinach, artichoke hearts, and a light, cheesy sauce made from cottage cheese, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it’s easy to make and packed with flavor!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- High in Protein: Cottage cheese and chicken make this a protein-packed meal.
- Healthier Alternative: A creamy dish without heavy cream or excess fat.
- Quick & Easy: Simple prep and hands-off baking make it perfect for busy nights.
- Versatile: Enjoy it on its own, with rice, pasta, or even in a wrap.
- Gluten-Free & Low-Carb: Great for those following a lower-carb lifestyle.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- ½ cup cottage cheese
- ¼ cup fresh spinach, chopped
- ½ cup artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces, cottage cheese, chopped spinach, artichoke hearts, minced garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until well incorporated. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Drizzle the olive oil over the top for added moisture and flavor.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the top is lightly golden.
- Serve & Enjoy: Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy on its own, or serve over rice, pasta, or a bed of greens.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4 servings
- Prep Time: 15-20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 40-50 minutes
Variations
- Make It Spicier: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat.
- Extra Creamy: Stir in a little Greek yogurt or an extra spoonful of cottage cheese.
- Cheese Lovers: Sprinkle extra shredded mozzarella or cheddar before baking.
- Low-Fat Version: Use low-fat cottage cheese and reduce the olive oil.
- Add More Veggies: Toss in mushrooms, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a microwave (in 30-second intervals) or in an oven at 350°F for 10 minutes until heated through.
- Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes! Just thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, pop it in the oven as directed.
3. Can I substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs will add more flavor and remain juicier.
4. What should I serve with this dish?
It pairs well with rice, quinoa, pasta, or a simple side salad.
5. Can I use ricotta cheese instead of cottage cheese?
Yes, ricotta is a good substitute for a smoother, slightly richer texture.
6. Is this dish keto-friendly?
Yes! It’s low in carbs and high in protein, making it great for keto diets.
7. How do I make this dish dairy-free?
Use dairy-free cottage cheese and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
8. Can I cook this in a skillet instead of baking?
Yes! Sauté the chicken first, then add the other ingredients and cook until heated through.
9. What can I use instead of artichoke hearts?
Try roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for a different veggie mix.
10. Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Use a larger baking dish and increase the cooking time slightly.
Conclusion
This Spinach Artichoke Chicken with Cottage Cheese is the perfect healthy and creamy dish for any occasion. Packed with lean protein, fresh veggies, and cheesy goodness, it’s a simple, flavorful, and nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare. Try it today and enjoy a delicious, guilt-free comfort food!
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Spinach Artichoke Chicken with Cottage Cheese
This Spinach Artichoke Chicken with Cottage Cheese is a creamy, protein-rich dish that’s a healthier take on classic creamy chicken recipes. Made with tender chicken, fresh spinach, artichoke hearts, and a light, cheesy sauce, this easy baked dish is perfect for a quick, nutritious weeknight dinner!
- Total Time: 40-50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- ½ cup cottage cheese
- ¼ cup fresh spinach, chopped
- ½ cup artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
- In a mixing bowl, combine chicken pieces, cottage cheese, chopped spinach, artichoke hearts, minced garlic, and Parmesan cheese.
- Season with salt and black pepper and mix well.
- Assemble in Baking Dish:
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread evenly.
- Drizzle olive oil over the top for added moisture and flavor.
- Bake:
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the top is lightly golden.
- Serve & Enjoy:
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy on its own or over rice, pasta, or greens.
Notes
- Use frozen spinach if needed—just thaw and drain excess moisture.
- Swap cottage cheese for ricotta for a smoother texture.
- For extra creaminess, stir in Greek yogurt or extra cottage cheese.
- Prep Time: 15-20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Main Courses
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
