Healthy Spinach Artichoke Chicken with Cottage Cheese ❤️
Description:
This healthy spinach artichoke chicken is a light yet creamy dish, packed with protein from cottage cheese and chicken, plus the goodness of spinach and artichokes. Unlike traditional heavy, cheesy recipes, this one is made with wholesome ingredients, making it guilt-free and delicious. Perfect for meal prep, a family dinner, or a low-carb meal option!
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 2 large chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Spinach Artichoke Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- ½ cup artichoke hearts, chopped (canned or jarred, drained)
- ¾ cup low-fat cottage cheese (blended for a smoother texture)
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt (for extra creaminess)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
- ¼ cup low-sodium chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
- Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown (it will finish cooking in the oven). Remove and set aside.
2. Make the Sauce:
- In the same pan, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in spinach and artichokes, cooking until wilted (1-2 minutes).
- Reduce heat and add blended cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, Parmesan, onion powder, and red pepper flakes. Stir well.
- Pour in chicken broth and cook for another 2 minutes, letting the sauce thicken slightly.
3. Bake the Chicken:
- Nestle the chicken breasts back into the pan, spooning some sauce over them.
- Transfer to the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) internally.
4. Serve & Enjoy:
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh parsley if desired.
Servings:
📌 Serves 2-3 (can be doubled for meal prep).
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: ~280-320
- Protein: ~40g
- Carbs: ~6g
- Fats: ~10g
- Fiber: ~2g
- Calcium: High
- Low-Carb & High-Protein
Benefits of This Dish:
✅ High in Protein: Keeps you full and supports muscle growth.
✅ Low in Carbs: Great for a low-carb, keto-friendly meal.
✅ Rich in Vitamins: Spinach and artichokes provide fiber, iron, and antioxidants.
✅ Gut-Friendly: Greek yogurt and cottage cheese contain probiotics.
✅ Heart-Healthy: Made with olive oil and lean protein.
Tips for Success:
✔ Blend the cottage cheese for a smoother, creamier sauce.
✔ Use chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier cut.
✔ Make it dairy-free: Use cashew cream instead of cottage cheese.
✔ Want it cheesier? Add shredded mozzarella before baking.
✔ Meal Prep Tip: Store in the fridge for up to 4 days; reheat gently to avoid drying out.
Q&A:
🔹 Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Store the cooked dish in an airtight container and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
🔹 What can I serve this with?
Pair with quinoa, cauliflower rice, or a side of roasted veggies for a complete meal.
🔹 Can I freeze it?
You can freeze it, but the dairy-based sauce may slightly change texture when reheated. Best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
🔹 Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes! Just thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before using.
Enjoy this Healthy Spinach Artichoke Chicken with Cottage Cheese—it’s creamy, delicious, and full of nutrients! ❤️ Let me know if you need modifications! 😊