Power-Packed High-Protein Chicken Cottage Cheese Enchilada Bowls for a Busy Weeknight
These delicious High-Protein Chicken Cottage Cheese Enchilada Bowls are not only family-friendly but also a quick and healthy option for those busy weeknights when you crave comfort food without the guilt. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a nourishing meal filled with lean protein and vibrant veggies, perfect for refueling after a long day.
Picture this: you’re juggling work, family, and life’s responsibilities, and the last thing you want is to spend hours in the kitchen. But you also want to serve a hearty meal that everyone will enjoy. This is where these enchilada bowls come to the rescue! They’re the ultimate blend of flavor and nutrition, with a cozy vibe that makes you feel right at home. Let’s dive into how to make this satisfying dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love These Flavorful Bowls
These enchilada bowls are not just tasty , they pack in layers of flavor and a healthy protein boost! You’ll be delighted to know that each serving contains about 30 grams of protein, which will keep you full and energized. Plus, with all the colorful vegetables and toppings, it’s a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds.
How to Make High-Protein Chicken Cottage Cheese Enchilada Bowls
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High-Protein Chicken Cottage Cheese Enchilada Bowls
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: High Protein
Description
A quick and healthy enchilada bowl filled with lean protein and vibrant veggies, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese (blended for smoother texture, optional)
- 4 tablespoons enchilada sauce
- 4 oz rotisserie chicken breast, shredded
- 4 tablespoons taco seasoning (or 1 package taco seasoning mix)
- 1 cup red bell pepper, diced (fresh or sautéed)
- 1/4 cup canned corn, drained
- 1/4 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 oz shredded cheese (Mexican blend or cheddar)
- Chopped cilantro, for garnish
- Avocado slices, for garnish
- Greek yogurt or sour cream, for garnish
Instructions
- Blend the cottage cheese: If you’d like a smoother consistency, blend the cottage cheese with enchilada sauce in a high-speed blender until creamy.
- Add the chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese mixture, shredded chicken, and taco seasoning, stirring until everything is nicely mixed.
- Add the veggies: Toss in the red bell pepper, corn, and black beans and give it a quick stir to coat the veggies in the mixture.
- Heat it up: Divide the mixture into two microwave-safe bowls, top each with shredded cheese, and microwave for 1-2 minutes until everything is warmed through and the cheese is melted.
- Garnish: Remove from the microwave and finish with chopped cilantro, avocado slices, and a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream. Enjoy the comforting warmth!
Notes
Customize the veggies and add jalapeños for extra heat. Can be baked instead of microwaved.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Microwaving
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Ingredients:
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese (blended for smoother texture, optional)
- 4 tablespoons enchilada sauce
- 4 oz rotisserie chicken breast, shredded
- 4 tablespoons taco seasoning (or 1 package taco seasoning mix)
- 1 cup red bell pepper, diced (fresh or sautéed)
- 1/4 cup canned corn, drained
- 1/4 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 oz shredded cheese (Mexican blend or cheddar)
- Chopped cilantro, for garnish
- Avocado slices, for garnish
- Greek yogurt or sour cream, for garnish
Directions:
- Blend the cottage cheese: If you’d like a smoother consistency, blend the cottage cheese with enchilada sauce in a high-speed blender until creamy.
- Add the chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese mixture, shredded chicken, and taco seasoning, stirring until everything is nicely mixed.
- Add the veggies: Toss in the red bell pepper, corn, and black beans and give it a quick stir to coat the veggies in the mixture.
- Heat it up: Divide the mixture into two microwave-safe bowls, top each with shredded cheese, and microwave for 1-2 minutes until everything is warmed through and the cheese is melted.
- Garnish: Remove from the microwave and finish with chopped cilantro, avocado slices, and a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream. Enjoy the comforting warmth!
Serving Your Bowl of Happiness
These enchilada bowls are perfect on their own but feel free to serve them with a side of tortilla chips or a light salad for extra crunch. They are versatile enough to be a standalone meal or a part of a lovely family spread.
Storing Your Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which is rare because they’re so good!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll last for about 3-4 days. Just reheat in the microwave before serving again.
Tips for a Perfect Bowl Every Time
- Customize the veggies: Feel free to use whatever vegetables you have on hand. Spinach, zucchini, or even frozen mixed veggies work wonderfully.
- Make it spicy: If you like a little heat, add some jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix.
- Skip the microwave: If you prefer, you can bake the bowls in the oven at 350°F until heated through and the cheese is bubbly, about 10-15 minutes.
Fun Variations to Try
- Vegetarian Delight: Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or more beans for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Cheesy Goodness: Add a layer of cheese between the cottage cheese mixture and the toppings for an extra cheesy experience.
- Festival Flair: Top with salsa or guacamole for a fresh twist that adds even more flavor and nutrients.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie?
Absolutely! Just cook and shred fresh chicken breast, then mix it in as directed.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just ensure that the enchilada sauce and taco seasoning are certified gluten-free.
Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just heat it up when you’re ready to serve!
These High-Protein Chicken Cottage Cheese Enchilada Bowls are not just a meal , they’re a comforting embrace in the form of food. Perfect for the whole family, these bowls will fill your dinner table with warmth and cheer. Enjoy!