This Protein-Packed Cottage Cheese Stuffed Chicken is a delicious and nutritious way to fuel your body with high-quality protein. The creamy cottage cheese filling, combined with fresh vegetables and flavorful seasonings, creates a satisfying and hearty dish that supports muscle growth and recovery.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- High in Protein: With over 40 grams of protein per serving, this meal is great for muscle building.
- Nutrient-Dense: Packed with spinach, bell peppers, and tomatoes, adding vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- Creamy & Flavorful: The cottage cheese adds a rich, comforting texture to the chicken.
- Easy & Healthy: A simple yet delicious way to increase protein intake while enjoying a healthy dinner.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil, ghee, tallow, unrefined organic coconut oil, or extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- 3 shallots, diced
- 2 heaping cups fresh baby spinach (coarsely chopped)
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 cup cottage cheese (excess liquid drained)
- 1/4 cup egg whites
- Sea salt & freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Directions
- Prepare the Filling: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the diced shallots and sauté until soft. Add the spinach and cook until wilted, then stir in the garlic powder.
- Make the Cottage Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine the cooked spinach mixture with cottage cheese, egg whites, salt, and pepper. Stir well until fully combined.
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut a pocket into each chicken breast and stuff it with the cottage cheese mixture. Secure with toothpicks if necessary.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat the remaining tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until browned and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).
- Serve: Remove toothpicks and serve warm with your favorite sides.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Add More Veggies: Add bell peppers, tomatoes, or mushrooms to the filling for more flavor.
- Spice It Up: Add chili flakes or paprika to the filling for a bit of heat.
- Cheese Options: Use ricotta or mozzarella for a different texture and flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warm.
- Freezing: Freeze the stuffed chicken breasts for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs will work, but they may need slightly longer cooking time.
2. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and stuffing ahead of time and refrigerate. Cook it fresh when you’re ready to serve.
3. Can I use dairy-free cottage cheese?
Yes, you can use a dairy-free version of cottage cheese for a non-dairy option.
4. How can I make the stuffing creamier?
You can add a tablespoon of cream cheese or sour cream to the filling for extra creaminess.
5. Can I bake the chicken instead of cooking it in a skillet?
Yes, you can bake the chicken at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until fully cooked.
Conclusion
Protein-Packed Cottage Cheese Stuffed Chicken is a simple and healthy dish that’s perfect for a high-protein meal. With its creamy filling and nutrient-packed ingredients, it’s a satisfying dinner that supports muscle growth and recovery. Enjoy this delicious, flavorful recipe with your favorite sides for a wholesome meal.
Print
Protein-Packed Cottage Cheese Stuffed Chicken
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This Protein-Packed Cottage Cheese Stuffed Chicken is a delicious, nutrient-dense meal that provides over 40 grams of protein per serving. The creamy cottage cheese filling, combined with fresh spinach, shallots, and garlic, makes this dish a flavorful and satisfying way to support muscle growth and recovery. Perfect for a healthy dinner!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil, ghee, tallow, unrefined organic coconut oil, or extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- 3 shallots, diced
- 2 heaping cups fresh baby spinach (coarsely chopped)
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 cup cottage cheese (excess liquid drained)
- ¼ cup egg whites
- Sea salt & freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Instructions
1. Prepare the Filling:
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the diced shallots and sauté until soft, about 3-4 minutes. Add the spinach and cook until wilted. Stir in the garlic powder and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
2. Make the Cottage Cheese Mixture:
In a bowl, combine the cooked spinach mixture with cottage cheese, egg whites, salt, and pepper. Stir until fully combined.
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Cut a pocket into each chicken breast. Stuff each breast with the cottage cheese mixture and secure with toothpicks if needed.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the stuffed chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes per side until browned and fully cooked (internal temperature should be 165°F).
5. Serve:
Remove the toothpicks and serve warm with your favorite sides (such as steamed veggies, quinoa, or rice). Enjoy!
Notes
- Add More Veggies: Add bell peppers, tomatoes, or mushrooms to the filling for extra flavor and texture.
- Spice It Up: Add chili flakes or paprika for a bit of heat.
- Cheese Options: Swap cottage cheese for ricotta or mozzarella for a different flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Pan-Frying, Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
