One-Pan Mediterranean Cottage Cheese Chicken with Olives & Tomatoes

Description

A vibrant, wholesome Mediterranean-inspired dish where tender chicken breasts are simmered in a creamy, protein-rich cottage cheese sauce infused with garlic, herbs, briny olives, and juicy cherry tomatoes. This easy one-pan recipe is perfect for busy weeknights — hearty enough for dinner, yet light and refreshing thanks to fresh herbs and tangy flavors.

Ingredients for One-Pan Mediterranean Cottage Cheese Chicken with Olives & Tomatoes

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs total)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• ½ cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced

• 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese (blended smooth for creaminess)

• ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth

• 1 tsp dried oregano (or 1 tbsp fresh)

• 1 tsp dried basil (or 1 tbsp fresh)

• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

1. Prepare Cottage Cheese Sauce

   • Blend cottage cheese until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

2. Sear the Chicken

   • Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

   • Sear chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown (not fully cooked yet). Remove and set aside.

3. Cook Aromatics

   • In the same skillet, add onion and sauté until translucent (about 3 minutes).

   • Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Build the Sauce

   • Add tomatoes, olives, oregano, basil, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir for 2 minutes until tomatoes start to soften.

   • Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.

5. Finish Cooking Chicken

   • Return chicken to the pan, cover, and cook over medium-low for 8–10 minutes until fully cooked (internal temp 165°F / 74°C).

6. Add Cottage Cheese Creaminess

   • Reduce heat to low, stir in the blended cottage cheese until sauce is creamy. Do not boil after adding to prevent curdling.

7. Serve

   • Garnish with fresh parsley or basil.

   • Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.

Notes

• Blending the cottage cheese is key for a smooth sauce.

• You can substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs for extra juiciness.

• Use a mix of green and Kalamata olives for a more complex flavor.

• If you like a richer sauce, add 1–2 tbsp of cream cheese.

Tips

• Meal Prep Friendly – This dish reheats well for up to 3 days in the fridge.

• Lower Fat Option – Use fat-free cottage cheese and less olive oil.

• Extra Veggies – Add spinach or zucchini for more nutrients.

• Serving Suggestion – Pair with quinoa, couscous, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Servings

• Yield: 4 servings

• Serving Size: ~1 chicken breast with sauce

Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)

• Calories: 310 kcal

• Protein: 38 g

• Carbs: 8 g

• Fat: 13 g

• Fiber: 2 g

• Sodium: 650 mg

• Sugar: 3 g

Benefits

• High Protein – Cottage cheese and chicken provide lean protein for muscle maintenance.

• Mediterranean Flavors – Heart-healthy olive oil, tomatoes, and olives add antioxidants and healthy fats.

• One-Pan Ease – Minimal cleanup and quick cooking.

• Balanced Nutrition – Good mix of protein, healthy fats, and vegetables.

Q&A

Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Yes, replace cottage cheese with unsweetened coconut yogurt or cashew cream.

Q: Will the cottage cheese taste be strong?
A: No, once blended and cooked with herbs, it turns into a mild, creamy sauce.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Not recommended, as dairy sauces can separate upon thawing. Better to refrigerate and eat within 3 days.

Q: How do I keep the sauce from curdling?
A: Add the cottage cheese at low heat after the chicken is cooked, and avoid boiling.