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Cottage Cheese Parmesan Firecracker Chicken

Juicy baked chicken breasts topped with a creamy cottage cheese and Parmesan mixture and spicy firecracker sauce — a high-protein, easy dinner ready in 45 minutes.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 370
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup cottage cheese
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 0.5 cup firecracker sauce store-bought or homemade
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
  • salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil for greasing the baking dish
  • fresh parsley or green onions chopped, optional garnish

Equipment

  • Baking dish
  • medium mixing bowl
  • Meat thermometer

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or nonstick spray.
  3. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
  4. In a medium bowl, combine the cottage cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until well mixed.
  5. Arrange the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
  6. Spread the cottage cheese mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast.
  7. Spoon the firecracker sauce over the cottage cheese layer.
  8. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  9. For a golden top, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes if desired. Watch closely.
  10. Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  11. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions before serving.

Notes

Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave with a splash of water, or covered in a 325°F oven for 15 minutes. Meal prep: Bake a full batch and portion with rice or vegetables for the week. Substitutions: Chicken thighs may be used in place of breasts — add 5 minutes to cook time. Low-fat cottage cheese works fine. Add shredded mozzarella to the topping for extra cheesiness. Use buffalo sauce or sweet chili sauce in place of firecracker sauce. Tips: Pat chicken dry before seasoning for better texture. Do not crowd the baking dish. Use a meat thermometer for accurate doneness. Pound thick chicken breasts to an even thickness for even cooking. Serve with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.