Microwave Chicken & Broccoli Bowl

This microwave cottage cheese chicken and broccoli bowl has become my favorite quick protein-packed meal when I need something satisfying without the fuss of a full cooking session.

I created this recipe during a particularly busy work week when I needed high protein meals but had zero time to cook. Now it's my go-to lunch that keeps me full for hours without weighing me down.

Ingredients

• Fresh broccoli: adds essential nutrients and satisfying texture when chopped into bite-sized pieces
• Rotisserie chicken: provides instant lean protein without any cooking required
• Low-fat cottage cheese: creates a creamy base with exceptional protein content. Look for a quality brand with minimal additives
• Garlic powder: infuses flavor throughout without having to chop fresh garlic
• Paprika: adds beautiful color and a subtle smoky flavor dimension
• Shredded cheddar cheese: creates that irresistible melty topping everyone loves. Freshly shredded melts better than pre-packaged
• Crushed pork rinds: deliver the perfect crunchy topping without carbs. Choose a quality brand with minimal ingredients
• Salt and pepper: essential for bringing all flavors together

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep Your Ingredients:

Tear or chop your rotisserie chicken into small, bite-sized pieces about half-inch in size for even heating. Cut broccoli into small florets no larger than an inch to ensure quick and even cooking. Process cottage cheese with seasonings until completely smooth for a creamy texture that blends perfectly with other ingredients.

Steam The Broccoli:

Place your chopped broccoli in a microwave-safe bowl and cover completely with a plate that overlaps the bowl. This creates a steam environment that cooks the broccoli perfectly. Microwave for exactly one minute, then check by piercing with a fork. The broccoli should have slight resistance but be tender enough to eat comfortably. Season immediately while hot for best flavor absorption.

Assemble Your Bowl:

Spoon your seasoned cottage cheese into a medium microwave-safe bowl, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Distribute your chicken pieces throughout, ensuring they’re not clumped together. Add your perfectly steamed broccoli, distributing it evenly throughout. Make sure your ingredients are well-spaced for even heating. Top with an even layer of shredded cheddar cheese covering the entire surface.

Final Heating:

Microwave your assembled bowl uncovered for exactly 90 seconds on high power. The cheese should be completely melted and slightly bubbling at the edges, and you should see steam rising from the bowl. The interior should reach at least 165°F for food safety. If your microwave has lower wattage, you may need an additional 15-30 seconds.

Finishing Touch:

Immediately sprinkle your crushed pork rinds over the hot bowl. They should slightly soften from the heat while maintaining their crunch. Serve right away while the contrast between the crunchy top and creamy interior is at its peak.

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The cottage cheese is truly the secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered that blending it with seasonings transforms it from a chunky dairy product many people avoid into a creamy, satisfying sauce that perfectly binds everything together. My husband who previously claimed to hate cottage cheese now requests this bowl weekly.

Make-Ahead Options

This bowl works wonderfully as a meal prep option. You can prepare all components separately and store them in individual containers in the refrigerator. The broccoli can be pre-steamed and stored for up to 3 days, while the seasoned cottage cheese mixture keeps beautifully for up to 5 days. When ready to eat, simply assemble and microwave for 2 minutes instead of the standard 90 seconds to account for the chilled ingredients.

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Customization Ideas

While this recipe features broccoli and chicken, the basic formula works with countless variations. Try swapping broccoli for cauliflower, asparagus, or bell peppers. The protein component is equally flexible—leftover steak, canned tuna, or even tofu work beautifully with the creamy cottage cheese base. The seasoning profile can shift completely by changing from paprika to curry powder, Italian herbs, or taco seasoning. Each variation still delivers the high protein profile with minimal effort.

Nutrition Benefits

This single bowl delivers a complete nutritional package that works wonderfully for anyone focused on protein intake without excessive carbohydrates. The broccoli provides fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants. The combination of proteins from both animal and dairy sources provides a complete amino acid profile. The moderate fat content from the cheese and pork rinds adds satiety that keeps hunger at bay for hours, making this an excellent option for those practicing intermittent fasting or trying to reduce snacking between meals.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well as a substitute. Microwave it according to package instructions until just tender, then drain any excess water before combining with other ingredients.

→ What can I substitute for pork rinds to keep this dish vegetarian?

For a vegetarian crunch topping, try panko breadcrumbs, crushed nuts, toasted quinoa, or roasted chickpeas. Each will provide texture without compromising the dish's integrity.

→ How can I make this dish dairy-free?

Substitute the cottage cheese with silken tofu blended with nutritional yeast and a splash of lemon juice. Replace the cheddar with a dairy-free cheese alternative that melts well.

→ Can I meal prep this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare all components except the pork rinds and store refrigerated for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, microwave until hot and add the pork rind topping just before serving to maintain crispness.

→ What's the protein content of this dish?

This bowl contains approximately 30-35g of protein, primarily from the chicken, cottage cheese, and cheddar cheese, making it an excellent high-protein meal option.

→ Can I use other vegetables besides broccoli?

Absolutely! Cauliflower, green beans, asparagus, or zucchini would all work well. Simply adjust microwaving time based on the vegetable's density to ensure proper tenderness.