Creamy Garlic Cottage Cheese Chicken Skillet

Creamy Garlic Cottage Cheese Chicken Skillet: Healthy, Quick, and Delicious

Looking for a high-protein, creamy chicken dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes? This Creamy Garlic Cottage Cheese Chicken Skillet is packed with flavor, tender chicken breasts, and a luscious garlic-cottage cheese sauce that feels indulgent but is surprisingly healthy.

It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or whenever you want a comforting meal without the heavy cream or unnecessary calories.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

High in protein thanks to cottage cheese and chicken
Creamy, garlicky sauce without heavy cream
One-pan recipe for easy cleanup
Ready in about 25 minutes
Pairs well with rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and black pepper, to taste
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely diced
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Optional: red pepper flakes for heat

Equipment Needed

Large skillet with lid
Wooden spoon or spatula
Knife and cutting board

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian herbs. Set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken breasts 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Cottage Cheese Sauce

Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet, sauté onion until translucent (about 3 minutes). Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

Stir in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low and stir in cottage cheese and Parmesan until creamy and smooth.

Step 4: Return Chicken to Skillet

Nestle chicken breasts into the sauce. Cover and simmer for 5–7 minutes until chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C).

Step 5: Finish and Garnish

Sprinkle with chopped parsley and optional red pepper flakes. Serve immediately over rice, pasta, or alongside steamed vegetables.

Tips for the Best Skillet Chicken

Do not overcook chicken—searing first locks in moisture.
Blend cottage cheese if you prefer a completely smooth sauce.
Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
Add spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies.
Serve immediately—sauce thickens as it cools.

Variations

Low-Carb / Keto: Serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Spicy Version: Add ½ teaspoon smoked paprika and ¼ teaspoon chili flakes.
Creamier Version: Add 2 tablespoons of cream or Greek yogurt.
Cheesy Extra: Mix in shredded mozzarella or cheddar.

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of broth if sauce thickens.

Nutrition Estimate (Per Serving – serves 4)

Calories: ~280
Protein: 36g
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fiber: 1g

This dish is rich in protein while remaining relatively low in calories, making it ideal for healthy weeknight meals.

Why This Dish Works

The combination of seared chicken and a garlicky cottage cheese sauce creates a flavor-packed meal that feels indulgent without heavy cream. Cottage cheese provides protein and creaminess while keeping the dish light. One skillet, minimal ingredients, and maximum flavor make this a go-to healthy dinner.

Serving Suggestions

Over steamed rice or quinoa
With roasted or sautéed vegetables
Paired with garlic bread for a cozy dinner
Topped with extra Parmesan for a cheesy kick

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Garlic Cottage Cheese Chicken Skillet proves that healthy meals don’t have to be boring. Quick, protein-packed, and bursting with flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.