Ingredients:

  • 6 oz chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 pinch sea salt
  • 1 pinch cracked black pepper
  • 1 tsp olive oil
  • 1/2 cup small curd cottage cheese (4% fat)
  • 1/2 cup marinara sauce (no sugar added)
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1/4 cup shredded low-moisture mozzarella
  • 1 tbsp freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp fresh basil leaves, torn

Instructions:

  1. Prep the protein. Pat the 6 oz chicken breast dry with a paper towel. Note: Excess moisture causes steaming rather than searing.
  2. Season thoroughly. Toss the chicken with 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, a pinch of sea salt, and cracked black pepper.
  3. Heat the pan. Add 1 tsp olive oil to the skillet over medium high heat until it shimmers and wisps of smoke appear.
  4. Sear the chicken. Place chicken in the pan. Cook for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until the edges are golden and the center is opaque.
  5. Mix the base. While chicken cooks, stir together 1/2 cup cottage cheese, 1/2 cup marinara sauce, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes in a small bowl.
  6. Combine. Reduce heat to low and pour the sauce mixture over the chicken.
  7. Add the cheese. Sprinkle 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella over the top.
  8. Melt. Cover the pan for 1-2 minutes until the mozzarella is molten and bubbling.
  9. Garnish. Remove from heat and top with 1 tbsp freshly grated Parmesan and 1 tbsp torn fresh basil.
  10. Rest. Let it sit for 1 minute before eating until the sauce thickens slightly.