Description
Elevate your meal prep with this nutrient-dense, high-protein chicken dish. Tender skinless chicken breasts are stuffed with a creamy blend of drained cottage cheese, egg whites, and wilted spinach, then pan-seared and baked to perfection. Served alongside sautéed shallots, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes, this wholesome meal is designed for optimal muscle recovery. It is a satisfying, bistro-quality entree that keeps your energy stable without the need for heavy breading or unnecessary added fats.
Ingredients
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup cottage cheese, drained
1/4 cup egg whites
2 heaping cups baby spinach, chopped
3 shallots, diced
2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 bell peppers, chopped
2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
Add diced shallots to the skillet and sauté for 2 minutes until softened.
Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until just wilted, then remove from heat to cool slightly.
In a mixing bowl, combine the drained cottage cheese, egg whites, cooled spinach mixture, and garlic powder.
Use a sharp utility knife to cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast.
Stuff each chicken breast with the cottage cheese mixture and secure with toothpicks if necessary.
Sear the stuffed chicken in the same skillet with the remaining oil until golden brown on both sides.
Add the bell peppers and cherry tomatoes around the chicken in the skillet.
Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.
Notes
Ensure the cottage cheese is well-drained to prevent the stuffing from becoming too watery. For extra flavor, feel free to add fresh herbs like basil or oregano to the cottage cheese mixture. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 25
- Cook Time: 25
- Category: High Protein Meals
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Healthy Modern