This Protein-Packed Cottage Cheese Stuffed Chicken is a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy a high-protein meal. Juicy chicken breasts are filled with a creamy, savory cottage cheese mixture, packed with spinach and garlic for a flavorful and satisfying dish. Perfect for meal prep, this recipe is easy to make and keeps you feeling full and energized.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- High in Protein – Over 40 grams of protein per serving, making it great for muscle building.
- Nutrient-Dense – Packed with spinach, shallots, and garlic for added vitamins and minerals.
- Creamy & Flavorful – Cottage cheese adds a rich texture without being overly heavy.
- Quick & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes for a simple and healthy meal.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp avocado oil or extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- 3 shallots, diced
- 2 heaping cups fresh baby spinach, chopped
- 2 tsp 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
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
1. Prepare the Filling
- Heat 1 tbsp oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add diced shallots and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft.
- Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
- Stir in garlic powder and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
2. Make the Cottage Cheese Mixture
- In a bowl, mix the cooked spinach mixture with cottage cheese, egg whites, salt, and pepper.
- Stir well until fully combined.
3. Stuff the Chicken
- Cut a pocket into each chicken breast.
- Fill each chicken breast with the cottage cheese mixture.
- Secure with toothpicks if needed.
4. Cook the Chicken
- Heat the remaining 1 tbsp oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the stuffed chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
5. Serve & Enjoy
- Remove toothpicks and serve warm with your favorite sides.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Add More Veggies – Try bell peppers, tomatoes, or mushrooms in the filling.
- Spice It Up – Add red pepper flakes or paprika for heat.
- Cheese Swap – Use ricotta or mozzarella instead of cottage cheese.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage – Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating – Microwave or warm on the stovetop until heated through.
- Freezing – Freeze stuffed chicken breasts for up to 3 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! They will work but may need a slightly longer cooking time.
Can I bake the chicken instead?
Yes, bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until fully cooked.
How do I make the filling extra creamy?
Add a tablespoon of cream cheese or sour cream to the mixture.
Can I meal prep this recipe?
Yes, you can prep the filling and stuff the chicken ahead of time, then cook it fresh when needed.
What can I serve with this dish?
Pair with roasted vegetables, cauliflower rice, or a simple salad.
Conclusion
Protein-Packed Cottage Cheese Stuffed Chicken is a simple, delicious, and healthy way to get a protein boost. With its creamy, flavorful filling and easy preparation, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep. Enjoy this nutrient-rich dish with your favorite sides for a balanced meal!
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Protein-Packed Cottage Cheese Stuffed Chicken
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Protein-Packed Cottage Cheese Stuffed Chicken is a high-protein, nutrient-dense meal perfect for fitness enthusiasts and meal preppers. Juicy chicken breasts are filled with a creamy cottage cheese and spinach mixture, creating a delicious and satisfying dish. With over 40g of protein per serving, this easy 30-minute recipe keeps you full and energized!
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 2 tbsp avocado oil or extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- 3 shallots, diced
- 2 heaping cups fresh baby spinach, chopped
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup cottage cheese (excess liquid drained)
- ¼ cup egg whites
- Sea salt & black pepper, to taste
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Instructions
1. Prepare the Filling
- Heat 1 tbsp oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Sauté shallots for 3-4 minutes until soft.
- Add spinach and cook until wilted (about 1-2 minutes).
- Stir in garlic powder and cook for another 1 minute.
2. Make the Cottage Cheese Mixture
- In a bowl, mix the cooked spinach mixture with cottage cheese, egg whites, salt, and pepper.
- Stir well until fully combined.
3. Stuff the Chicken
- Cut a pocket into each chicken breast.
- Fill each chicken pocket with the cottage cheese mixture.
- Secure with toothpicks if needed.
4. Cook the Chicken
- Heat the remaining 1 tbsp oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook stuffed chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. Serve & Enjoy
- Remove toothpicks and serve warm with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Baking Option: Bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until fully cooked.
- Extra Creamy Filling: Add 1 tbsp cream cheese or sour cream.
- Vegetable Variations: Try adding bell peppers, tomatoes, or mushrooms.
- Spice It Up: Mix in red pepper flakes or paprika.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Seared / Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: American
