Cottage Cheese Chicken Taco Bowl

Why you will love this recipe

• High protein: Cottage cheese and chicken make this bowl protein-packed.
• Simple ingredients: Everything is easy to find and quick to prepare.
• Meal prep friendly: Stays fresh in the fridge for several days.
• Customizable: Swap ingredients to fit your taste or diet needs.
• Easy & quick: Comes together in minutes for a fuss-free meal.

Key ingredients and substitutions

• Shredded chicken – The main protein source! Use rotisserie chicken, chicken breast, or even chicken thighs. Ground chicken or turkey works too.
• Cottage cheese – The creamy base for the taco dip. Use fat-free, low-fat, or full-fat cottage cheese depending on your preference. Greek yogurt can be an alternative for a different texture.
• Salsa – Adds moisture and flavor to the taco chicken. Choose mild, medium, or spicy based on your heat tolerance.
• Taco seasoning – Brings that signature taco taste. You can use store-bought or my homemade taco seasoning blend of chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, oregano, black pepper, salt, paprika, and red pepper flakes.
• Cherry tomatoes – Fresh and juicy, they add a little sweetness. Regular diced tomatoes or pico de gallo work too.
• Pickled jalapeños – A touch of spice! You can skip them or use fresh jalapeños instead.
• Cheddar cheese – For a cheesy topping, and it also goes inside the quick cottage cheese taco dip we’ll be making. Low-fat cheese or Mexican blend also works.
• Cilantro – Adds freshness! If you’re not a fan, just leave it out.
• Tortilla chips – Optional for dipping or crunch. Swap with crushed taco shells or leave them out for a low-carb option.
• Tajin – A tangy, spicy finishing touch! Totally optional but highly recommended. A squeeze of lime juice and a sprinkle of chili powder can work in a pinch.

How to make a cottage cheese chicken taco bowl

1. Mix the taco chicken: In a small bowl, combine the shredded chicken, salsa, and taco seasoning. Mix well to coat everything in that bold taco flavor.
2. Heat it up: Microwave the taco chicken for 1-2 minutes until warmed through. If you prefer, heat it in a skillet over medium heat.
3. Blend the cottage cheese dip: Add the cottage cheese, cherry tomatoes, taco seasoning, and pickled jalapeños to a bowl or blender. Blend until smooth—I like using an immersion blender for a creamy finish.

4. Melt the cheese: Stir in the grated cheddar cheese, then microwave for about a minute, stirring halfway through. This makes the dip extra creamy and melty!

5. Assemble the bowl: Spread the cottage cheese taco dip in the bottom of your bowl.
6. Top it off: Add the warm taco chicken on top, followed by diced tomatoes, cilantro, extra grated cheese, and pickled jalapeños.

7. Sprinkle with Tajin: This step is optional, but that tangy chili-lime seasoning takes it up a notch!
8. Dig in!: Serve with tortilla chips for crunch or eat it as is for a low-carb option.

Recipe notes and tips

• Make it smoother: Blend the cottage cheese extra well for a super creamy dip. A food processor works great if you want an ultra-smooth texture.
• Adjust the spice: Like it mild? Skip the jalapeños and use mild salsa. Want it fiery? Add hot sauce or extra chili powder.
• Double it up: This recipe is easy to scale up for meal prep. Make a double batch and store extras for quick meals.
• Add extra crunch: Crushed tortilla chips, shredded lettuce, or even bell peppers can add a satisfying crunch.

Variations

• Ground meat option – Swap the shredded chicken for ground turkey, lean ground beef, or ground chicken.
• Vegetarian version – Skip the meat and add black beans, pinto beans, or even a scoop of guacamole for plant-based protein.
• Extra cheese – Mix in a little cream cheese or low-fat cheese into the cottage cheese dip for extra creaminess.
• Spicy kick – Add a drizzle of hot sauce, extra jalapeños, or some spicy salsa to turn up the heat.
• Taco salad style – Serve everything over a bed of chopped romaine or shredded lettuce for a fresh, crunchy taco salad.
• Burrito bowl – Serve with a base of brown rice or cauliflower rice for a more filling meal.
• Crunchy topping – Crushed tortilla chips, crispy taco shells, or roasted corn salsa can add extra texture.

What to serve with cottage cheese chicken taco bowls

• Sides: Serve with pinto beans, black beans, or brown rice for a balanced meal.
• Crunchy add-ons: Pair with tortilla chips, crispy taco shells, or a scoop of corn salsa for extra texture.
• Fresh toppings: Add pico de gallo, avocado slices, or a squeeze of lime juice for a refreshing boost.
• Dips & sauces: Try spicy salsa, creamy Greek yogurt, or guacamole for extra flavor.
• Protein boost: Toss in more shredded chicken, pollo asado, or a scoop of fat-free cottage cheese to up the protein content.

Frequently asked questions