High Protein Pesto Chicken Bowl

This high protein pesto chicken cottage cheese bowl transforms simple ingredients into a creamy, protein-packed meal that satisfies both hunger and taste buds. The combination of homemade pesto with cottage cheese creates a lighter yet protein-rich alternative to traditional pesto that pairs perfectly with rotisserie chicken.

I created this recipe during a fitness challenge when I needed quick protein-rich meals. It's become my go-to lunch when I need something satisfying that won't weigh me down during afternoon workouts.

Ingredients

• Fresh basil leaves: Provides the classic pesto flavor and adds brightness
• Low-fat cottage cheese: Creates creaminess while boosting protein content
• Grated parmesan: Adds savory depth and that umami flavor
• Pine nuts: Give traditional pesto nuttiness and texture
• Extra-virgin olive oil: Brings essential healthy fats and smoothness
• Garlic clove: Adds aromatic punch to the pesto
• Lemon juice: Brightens all the flavors and cuts through richness
• Red bell pepper: Adds color contrast and slight sweetness
• Rotisserie chicken: Provides convenient lean protein
• Shredded mozzarella: Creates that irresistible melty cheese pull

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make Cottage Cheese Pesto:

Combine fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, parmesan, olive oil and cottage cheese in your food processor. Pulse until you achieve a smooth, vibrant green mixture. The cottage cheese creates a creamy texture while providing protein that traditional pesto lacks. Add a squeeze of lemon for brightness, then season with salt and pepper until the flavors sing.

Prepare Bell Pepper:

Place your diced bell pepper in a microwave-safe bowl covered with a plate. Microwave for exactly one minute to soften slightly while maintaining some texture. This quick cooking method preserves the pepper's nutritional value while making it easier to incorporate with the other ingredients.

Combine And Heat:

Mix your freshly made pesto with the warm bell pepper and shredded chicken. Stir thoroughly to ensure the chicken is fully coated in the vibrant green sauce. Microwave for one minute to warm everything through. The brief heating allows the flavors to meld together without overcooking the pesto.

Finish With Cheese:

Sprinkle mozzarella and remaining parmesan over the top of your bowl. Microwave for another minute until the cheese melts into glorious stretchy perfection. The cheese creates a savory top layer that complements the herby pesto below. Serve immediately while everything is hot and the cheese is at its melty best.

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The cottage cheese is truly the secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered this substitution by accident when I ran out of pine nuts one day and needed to bulk up my pesto. The resulting creamy texture was so good that it's become my preferred way to make pesto, even when I'm not watching my macros!

Make-Ahead Options

This bowl works beautifully as a meal prep option. Prepare the pesto separately and store in an airtight container with a thin layer of olive oil on top to prevent oxidation. When ready to eat, simply combine with chicken and proceed with the heating steps. The pesto maintains its vibrant color and flavor for up to 5 days when stored properly in the refrigerator.

Variations To Try

Transform this bowl into a complete meal by serving over zucchini noodles for additional vegetables without adding many calories. For a heartier option, mix with cooked whole wheat pasta or quinoa. You can also swap the chicken for salmon or white beans, creating entirely new flavor profiles while maintaining the high protein content that makes this dish so satisfying.

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Budget-Friendly Tips

When basil isn't in season or feels expensive, substitute half the basil with baby spinach or kale. The cottage cheese and seasonings will maintain the flavor profile while stretching your grocery budget. Additionally, prepare your own shredded chicken by cooking chicken breasts in bulk and freezing portions for quick meals, which is more economical than buying rotisserie chicken.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make this pesto chicken bowl ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cottage cheese pesto up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to eat, simply combine with the chicken and bell peppers, then heat and add cheese as directed.

→ What can I substitute for pine nuts in the pesto?

Walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds make excellent substitutes for pine nuts in this pesto. Each will provide a slightly different flavor profile while maintaining the desired texture.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with chickpeas, white beans, or cubed firm tofu. You'll still get protein benefits while maintaining a similar texture and heartiness to the dish.

→ What's the nutritional benefit of using cottage cheese in pesto?

Cottage cheese adds significant protein to traditional pesto while reducing the fat content that comes from using only olive oil. It also creates a creamier texture while providing calcium and other nutrients not typically found in standard pesto.

→ Can I use this pesto cottage cheese mixture for other dishes?

Absolutely! This protein-rich pesto works wonderfully as a spread on sandwiches, mixed with pasta, as a dip for vegetables, or dolloped onto eggs. Store extra portions in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this makes an excellent meal prep option. Prepare several portions of the pesto and store separately from your protein. When ready to eat, combine, heat, and add cheese for a fresh-tasting meal in minutes.