Creamy Chicken and Cottage Cheese Recipe with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
If you’re looking for a unique and flavorful chicken and cottage cheese recipe, you’re in for a treat. This dish combines tender chicken with creamy cottage cheese, fresh spinach, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, creating a delicious meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Perfect for a quick dinner or an elegant lunch, this recipe elevates the classic chicken dish with an innovative twist. This chicken and cottage cheese recipe is sure to become a favorite, regardless of your preference for high-protein meals or your love for flavor experimentation.
Ingredients
- Two large chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, should be cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Blend 1 cup of cottage cheese to create a smooth and creamy sauce.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (adds depth to the sauce)
- Add 1 cup of fresh spinach, roughly chopped for nutrients.
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (thinly sliced, packed in oil, or rehydrated)
- 1/2 onion (finely chopped for extra flavor)
- Mince 2 garlic cloves for aromatic richness.
- 1 tbsp olive oil (or butter for cooking)
- Add 1/2 tsp of smoked paprika for a smoky undertone.
- Add 1/2 tsp dried oregano to add a herbal touch.
- Salt and pepper to taste.
- Optional garnish: Fresh basil leaves or grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Before starting, chop all the ingredients. Slice the chicken into uniform, bite-sized chunks to promote even cooking and a tender finish. Blend the cottage cheese until smooth to create a creamy sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Warm olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium heat until it shimmers with readiness. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute, releasing its aroma.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Add the chicken to the skillet. Sprinkle it with smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes fully cooked and golden.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Lower the heat and pour in the chicken broth, deglazing the skillet by scraping up any browned bits for extra flavor. Slowly add the blended cottage cheese, stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Step 5: Add Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Stir in the chopped spinach and sun-dried tomatoes. Continue cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the spinach to wilt and the tomatoes to fully incorporate. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
Step 6: Serve and enjoy.
Plate the creamy chicken and cottage cheese mixture over rice, quinoa, or a bed of roasted vegetables. Top with a sprinkle of fresh basil or a dusting of Parmesan to elevate the dish with a final flourish.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Cottage Cheese Recipe
This chicken and cottage cheese recipe stands out because it’s both healthy and indulgent. The cottage cheese creates a velvety sauce without the need for heavy cream, making it a high-protein, low-carb option. Sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of tangy flavor, while spinach provides a nutritious green element. It’s a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and savory that will leave you craving more.
This dish is versatile and simple to make, suitable for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to elevate simple ingredients into something extraordinary.