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Easy Chicken Parmesan with Cottage Cheese

Easy Chicken Parmesan with Cottage Cheese

3.25 from 4 votes
A lighter twist on classic Chicken Parmesan, using cottage cheese for a creamy, protein-rich topping instead of ricotta. Crispy baked chicken breasts are layered with marinara, mozzarella, and seasoned cottage cheese for a delicious and satisfying meal the whole family will love.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 120
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts about 6 oz each
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs beaten
  • 1.5 cup breadcrumbs Italian-seasoned
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese divided
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
Topping
  • 1 cup cottage cheese full-fat recommended
  • 1 cup marinara sauce store-bought or homemade
  • 1.5 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 tbsp fresh basil chopped, for garnish

Method
 

Steps
  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  2. Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound to an even 0.5-inch thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
  3. Set up a breading station: place flour in one shallow dish, beaten eggs in another, and mix breadcrumbs, 0.25 cup Parmesan, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper in a third dish.
  4. Dredge each chicken breast in flour, dip in egg, then coat thoroughly with breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to adhere.
  5. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer to prepared baking sheet.
  6. Spoon 1–2 tablespoons of marinara sauce over each chicken breast. Top with cottage cheese, then sprinkle with mozzarella and remaining 0.25 cup Parmesan.
  7. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until chicken reaches 165°F internally and cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately with pasta, zucchini noodles, or a side salad.

Notes

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.