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Cottage Cheese Chicken Parm Bowl

A viral high-protein lunch bowl that packs 54g of protein into a creamy, cheesy, comfort-food meal ready in less than 20 minutes.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 1 Bowl
Course: Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine: High Protein, Italian-American
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Bowl Base
  • 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese or full fat for creaminess
  • 0.25 cup marinara sauce Rao's or low sugar preferred
  • 0.25 cup shredded mozzarella cheese divided
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 pinch salt and black pepper to taste
Toppings
  • 4-5 oz breaded chicken tenders frozen or homemade
  • 1 tbsp grated parmesan cheese optional
  • 1 tbsp fresh basil chopped
  • 1 pinch red pepper flakes optional for heat

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Microwave-safe bowl
  • Spoon
  • Knife

Method
 

  1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Line the basket with parchment paper if desired for easy cleanup.
  2. Place breaded chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  3. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy. Remove and chop into bite-sized chunks.
  4. While chicken cooks, combine cottage cheese, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and half of the mozzarella in a microwave-safe bowl.
  5. Microwave the bowl mixture for 60-90 seconds, stirring halfway through, until cheese begins to melt and sauce is warm. Optional: Blend sauce before heating for a smoother texture.
  6. Add the chopped crispy chicken into the bowl and toss to coat slightly with the sauce. Top with remaining mozzarella and parmesan.
  7. Microwave for another 30-45 seconds (or broil for 2 minutes) until the cheese topping is bubbly and melted.
  8. Garnish with fresh basil and red pepper flakes. Serve immediately.

Notes

For a lower carb version, use unbreaded grilled chicken. To increase volume, mix in steamed broccoli.