This Healthy Spinach Artichoke Chicken is a lighter take on the classic creamy dish, using cottage cheese for richness without extra calories. Tender chicken breasts are paired with earthy spinach, tangy artichokes, garlic, and Parmesan, creating a flavorful, protein-packed meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy yet healthy – Cottage cheese provides a luscious texture without excess fat.
- High in protein – Chicken and cottage cheese make this a satisfying meal.
- Easy and quick – Ready in just 40 minutes with minimal prep.
- Gluten-free and nutritious – A great option for a balanced diet.
- Perfect for meal prep – Store and reheat easily for leftovers.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 large chicken breasts
- ½ cup artichoke hearts, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup cottage cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
- Sear the chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove from heat and set aside.
Make the Spinach Artichoke Mixture
- In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil, garlic, artichoke hearts, and spinach. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts.
- Remove from heat and stir in cottage cheese and Parmesan cheese. Mix until well combined.
Assemble and Bake
- Spread the spinach-artichoke mixture evenly over the seared chicken breasts.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) internally.
Serve and Enjoy
- Let rest for 5 minutes, then serve warm with your favorite sides.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Extra Cheesy – Add ¼ cup shredded mozzarella for a gooier texture.
- Spicy Kick – Mix in ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes for heat.
- Creamier Version – Blend the cottage cheese for a smoother texture.
- Low-Carb Option – Serve with cauliflower rice or roasted veggies.
- Dairy-Free Alternative – Use dairy-free cottage cheese and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigeration – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing – Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheating – Warm in the oven at 325°F for 10 minutes, or microwave for 1-2 minutes.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, just thaw and squeeze out excess water before using.
2. What’s the best way to make this dish lower in fat?
Use low-fat cottage cheese and reduce the olive oil slightly.
3. Can I cook this on the stovetop instead of baking?
Yes! Cover and simmer on low for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
4. How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Don’t overbake—use a meat thermometer and remove once it reaches 165°F.
5. Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Mushrooms, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes work well.
6. How do I make the sauce thicker?
Blend the cottage cheese before mixing it in for a smoother texture.
7. Can I meal prep this recipe?
Yes! Cook the dish ahead and store in meal prep containers for easy lunches.
8. What’s the best side dish for this recipe?
Serve with quinoa, rice, roasted veggies, or a simple green salad.
9. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, but adjust cooking time—thighs may take 5 minutes longer to bake.
10. How do I make this dish keto-friendly?
Skip the artichokes and pair with zucchini noodles or cauliflower mash.
Conclusion
This Healthy Spinach Artichoke Chicken with cottage cheese is a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy a creamy dish without the guilt. With simple ingredients and bold flavors, it’s an easy weeknight dinner that’s satisfying and packed with protein. Try it today for a wholesome, flavorful meal!
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Healthy Spinach Artichoke Chicken
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Healthy Spinach Artichoke Chicken is a lighter, protein-packed twist on a classic dish! Made with tender chicken breasts, fresh spinach, artichoke hearts, and creamy cottage cheese, it’s a rich and satisfying meal without the extra calories. Gluten-free and perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions!
Ingredients
For the Chicken & Sauce
- 2 large chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup artichoke hearts, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Prep & Sear the Chicken
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.
2. Make the Spinach Artichoke Mixture
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add artichoke hearts and spinach, cooking for 1-2 minutes until wilted.
- Stir in cottage cheese and Parmesan cheese until combined.
3. Bake & Serve
- Place seared chicken breasts in a baking dish and spread the spinach artichoke mixture over each.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Make it extra creamy! Add cream cheese or shredded mozzarella as suggested by other home cooks.
- Meal prep tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
- Low-carb serving idea: Pair with roasted veggies or a side salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Baking, Sautéing
- Cuisine: Healthy, American
