Protein-Packed Chicken Parmesan by Stealth Health Life

Ingredients

• 2 large (approx. 11 oz each) Chicken breasts, boneless, skinless
• 1 tbsp Olive oil
• 1/2 cup Marinara sauce, your favorite
• 1/4 cup Low-fat cottage cheese
• 1/4 cup Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, freshly grated
• 1/2 tsp Salt, or to taste
• 1/4 tsp Black pepper, freshly ground, or to taste
• 1/2 tsp Garlic powder

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap or in a large zip-top bag. Using a meat mallet or a heavy pan, tenderize the chicken breasts until they are about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick. This ensures even cooking and improves texture.
3. Transfer the tenderized chicken breasts to the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, then season generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder on both sides. Rub the seasonings gently into the chicken.
4. Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) as measured by a meat thermometer. The chicken should be cooked through and lightly golden.
5. Once the chicken is cooked, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Evenly spread a portion of your favorite marinara sauce over each chicken breast.
6. Dollop the low-fat cottage cheese over the marinara sauce on each chicken breast. Then, generously sprinkle the freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese over the cottage cheese. Grate it finely for a better melt.
7. Return the baking sheet to the oven and turn on the broiler setting. Broil for 2-4 minutes, keeping a close eye on it, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned on top.
8. Carefully remove the chicken parmesan from the oven and let it rest for a minute before serving hot. This allows the flavors to meld and the cheese to set slightly.