Looking for a protein-packed meal that delivers bold flavor without the guilt? This Buffalo Chicken Cottage Cheese Bowl is about to become your new favorite meal prep staple. The spicy kick of buffalo sauce perfectly complements the cool creaminess of cottage cheese, creating a satisfying balance that keeps you coming back for more.
I created this recipe after searching for ways to make cottage cheese more exciting while still keeping my protein intake high. The combination might sound unusual at first, but trust me – once you try this savory, tangy, and creamy bowl, you’ll understand why it’s become such a sensation among fitness enthusiasts and foodies alike.
Why You’ll Love This
- High-protein meal that keeps you full for hours (over 30g protein per serving!)
- Perfect balance of spicy, savory, and cool flavors in every bite
- Ready in under 45 minutes with minimal cleanup
- Meal-prep friendly – stays delicious for up to 3 days in the refrigerator
- Customizable heat level to suit your personal spice preference
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded
- ½ cup cottage cheese
- ¼ cup celery, diced
- ¼ cup carrots, shredded
- 2 tablespoons buffalo sauce
- 2 tablespoons ranch dressing
Instructions
- Toss shredded chicken with buffalo sauce until evenly coated.
- Layer cottage cheese, buffalo chicken, celery, and carrots in a bowl.
- Drizzle with ranch dressing and serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
- For a milder version, mix the buffalo sauce with equal parts ranch dressing before coating the chicken.
- Try using rotisserie chicken to save time – just shred and warm with buffalo sauce.
- Make it low-carb by adding diced avocado and a side of cucumber slices.
- For extra crunch, sprinkle with crushed tortilla chips or crispy fried onions.
- Vegetarian option: Substitute chicken with roasted cauliflower or chickpeas tossed in buffalo sauce.
- For meal prep, store the cottage cheese and buffalo chicken separately, combining just before eating.
Serving Suggestions
These protein-packed bowls are delicious on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a side of celery and carrot sticks for added crunch and freshness. The cool vegetables provide a perfect contrast to the spicy buffalo chicken.
For a more substantial meal, serve over a bed of greens, alongside roasted sweet potatoes, or with a slice of crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. A light side salad with a vinaigrette dressing also makes a refreshing accompaniment.
Notes
- Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Chicken is done when it reaches 165°F (74°C) and juices run clear.
- If cottage cheese releases liquid during storage, simply drain before serving.
- This recipe can be easily doubled for larger gatherings or extended meal prep.
FAQs
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese?
Yes! Greek yogurt makes a great substitute if you’re not a fan of cottage cheese. The tangy flavor works well with the buffalo chicken.
How spicy is this dish?
The spice level depends on your choice of buffalo sauce. For a milder version, choose a sauce labeled “mild” or cut it with some ranch dressing.
Can I make this in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Cook chicken breasts in the air fryer at 375°F for about 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, then proceed with shredding and sauce coating.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, with approximately 5g of carbs per serving (mostly from the cottage cheese), this dish fits well into a ketogenic diet while providing ample protein.
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