Mediterranean One Pot Southwest Cottage Cheese Skillet
This one-pot Mediterranean-style skillet blends lean chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy cottage cheese base with a touch of Southwest-inspired flavor. It’s wholesome, packed with protein, and comes together quickly in a single pan, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With juicy chicken, tender zucchini, and a light yet satisfying sauce, this dish proves that comfort food can also be nourishing.
Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
For the Skillet Bake:
2 tbsp olive oil
1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, diced
2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced or chopped
1 small red onion, finely chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped (optional, for extra color and sweetness)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese (optional, for topping)
Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5–6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add onion, zucchini, and bell pepper (if using). Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened. Add garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder, stirring until fragrant.
Combine and simmer: Return the chicken to the skillet, mix with the vegetables, and adjust seasoning if needed. Lower the heat to medium.
Add cottage cheese: Stir in the cottage cheese until it melts slightly into the mixture, creating a creamy, tangy base.
Optional topping: If you’d like a baked finish, sprinkle with shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese. Cover with a lid for 2–3 minutes (or place under a broiler for 1–2 minutes) until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley and serve warm, straight from the skillet.
Tips
Cut evenly: Dice the chicken and vegetables into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly.
Don’t overcook cottage cheese: Add it at the end and stir gently to keep a creamy texture without separating.
Adjust heat: Start with a small amount of chili powder and increase if you want more spice.
Make it a meal: Serve with warm pita, rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a complete dinner.
Variations
Protein swaps: Use ground turkey, lean beef, or even shrimp instead of chicken.
Vegetarian option: Replace the chicken with chickpeas or black beans for a protein-rich meat-free version.
Cheese variations: Try feta for a sharper Mediterranean edge, or pepper jack for more Southwest flavor.
Extra veggies: Add corn, spinach, or cherry tomatoes to bulk it up.
Lighter version: Use low-fat cottage cheese and skip the mozzarella topping.
Make it a bake: Transfer everything to an oven-safe dish, sprinkle with cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes until bubbly.
Q&A
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Cook the skillet as directed, let it cool, and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven with a splash of broth if needed.
Can I use regular cheese instead of cottage cheese?
You can, but cottage cheese adds protein and a light creaminess without being too heavy. If you prefer, swap with ricotta or Greek yogurt for a similar texture.
Can I make it spicier?
Definitely. Add jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or extra chili powder to turn up the heat.
What can I serve this with?
It pairs well with rice, quinoa, couscous, or even tucked into tortillas for a skillet-style wrap. For a lighter option, serve with a green salad.
Can I freeze it?
Yes. The chicken and vegetables freeze well, though the cottage cheese sauce may separate slightly. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months, and stir well after reheating.
Nutrition
(per serving, 4 servings)
Calories: ~370
Protein: 37 g
Fat: 18 g
Carbohydrates: 14 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sugar: 5 g
(Values may vary based on cheese type and added vegetables.)
Conclusion
The Mediterranean One Pot Southwest Cottage Cheese Skillet is a quick, protein-packed meal that blends creamy comfort with bold, savory spices. It’s easy enough for weeknights and versatile enough to adapt with whatever vegetables or proteins you have on hand. With its one-pan cleanup and wholesome balance of flavors, this dish is sure to become a regular in your kitchen rotation.