As I flipped through my recipe book, the idea of Cottage Cheese Chicken Patties jumped out at me like an old friend. These patties aren’t just any ordinary dish; they’re a protein-packed delight that brings together the goodness of ground chicken and creamy cottage cheese for an irresistibly moist texture. What I love most is their versatility—perfect for meal prep, they can be tossed into a salad, wrapped in lettuce, or devoured on their own with your favorite dipping sauce. Whether you’re aiming for a low-carb option using almond flour or looking for a quick weeknight dinner solution, these patties have got you covered. Curious about how to whip up this delicious joy? Let’s dive in! Why are Cottage Cheese Chicken Patties amazing? Protein-Packed: These patties are not just satisfying; they are brimming with protein from the combination of cottage cheese and ground chicken, making them a perfect post-workout meal. Versatile Meal Prep Stars: Their adaptability means you can easily incorporate them into salads, wraps, or even eat them on their own—ideal for those who like variety in their weekly meals. Quick to Make: You can whip them up in no time, making dinner a breeze even on the busiest nights. Unique Texture: The creamy cottage cheese infuses moisture, giving you a juicy, flavorful bite with each pattie. Low-Carb Option: Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs for a gluten-free twist that doesn’t compromise on taste. If you’re a fan of meal preps, you might also enjoy my Cheesy Chicken Broccoli or Crockpot Chicken Tinga for easy weeknight dinners! Cottage Cheese Chicken Patties Ingredients For the Patties • Ground Chicken – The main protein source providing structure; can substitute with ground turkey for a different flavor. • Cottage Cheese – Adds moisture and creaminess, ensuring the patties remain juicy as you bite into them. • Egg – Acts as a binder to hold everything together, making the patties easy to flip. • Breadcrumbs (Panko) – Provides a crispy outer layer; feel free to use almond flour for a gluten-free option. • Garlic Powder – Infuses a delicious depth of flavor that elevates the overall taste. • Onion Powder – Enhances the savory profile of the patties, lending to their irresistible aroma. • Salt and Pepper – Essential for flavor balance; remember to season to your liking. • Parsley (optional) – Adds freshness and a touch of color, making the dish visually appealing. These Cottage Cheese Chicken Patties will not only make your meals more exciting but also keep you fueled throughout your busy days! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cottage Cheese Chicken Patties Step 1: Prepare the Mixture In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, cottage cheese, egg, and breadcrumbs (or almond flour for a low-carb version). Add in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and chopped parsley for extra flavor. Use a fork or your hands to mix everything until just combined, ensuring not to overmix, which can make the Cottage Cheese Chicken Patties tough. Step 2: Shape the Patties With clean hands, divide the mixture into small portions, about 2 tablespoons each. Roll each portion into a ball and then gently flatten it to create a patty shape, ensuring they are uniform for even cooking. Place the patties on a plate or cutting board as you shape them, making sure they are not touching each other. Step 3: Heat the Skillet Add a couple of tablespoons of olive oil to a skillet and heat it over medium heat. Allow the oil to warm for about 2 minutes until it shimmers, indicating it’s ready for cooking. This step is crucial for achieving a golden, crispy exterior on your Cottage Cheese Chicken Patties. Step 4: Cook the Patties Carefully place the shaped patties into the hot skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook them for 4–5 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a spatula to flip them gently to avoid breaking the patties while cooking. Step 5: Bake Alternatively If you prefer baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them inches apart. Bake for 20–22 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even cooking until golden brown and cooked through, enjoying a healthier option without the added oil. Step 6: Serve and Enjoy Once cooked, remove the Cottage Cheese Chicken Patties from the skillet or oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes. Serve them hot or cold, with your favorite dipping sauces or atop fresh salads and lettuce wraps for a delightful meal. Cottage Cheese Chicken Patties Variations Feel free to get creative and customize your Cottage Cheese Chicken Patties for a delicious twist! Ground Turkey: Substitute ground chicken with ground turkey for a slightly different flavor while keeping it protein-packed. You may notice a difference in texture, but it still offers a delightful moisture balance embodied by the cottage cheese. Almond Flour: Swap out breadcrumbs for almond flour to make these patties gluten-free. This alternative gives you a softer texture while maintaining that protein punch—perfect for anyone on a low-carb diet. Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for some heat. A little kick can elevate every bite and make your palate sing! Herb Bliss: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or dill into the mixture for an aromatic twist. These herbs bring brightness and a refreshing flair to the patties—perfect for a summer meal! Zesty Lemon: Mix in some lemon zest to brighten the overall flavor. The citrusy notes can really lift the taste, making each bite feel light and refreshing. Cheese Lover’s Delight: Fold in shredded cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella, into the mixture for extra creaminess. Cheese not only adds flavor but also that gooey texture that melts beautifully with each bite. Savory Umami: Consider adding a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for a depth of flavor. These additions can give your patties a rich, savory umami kick that complements the creamy cottage cheese. Savory Veggie Twist: Throw in some finely chopped spinach or grated zucchini for added nutrients. This not only boosts the health factor but makes each patty more colorful and appetizing! With these variations, you’ll find endless ways to enjoy your Cottage Cheese Chicken Patties. And don’t forget, they pair wonderfully with a side of crispy roasted veggies or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. Make Ahead Options These Cottage Cheese Chicken Patties are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the uncooked patties ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. To do this, simply shape the patties and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover them with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy, just cook them straight from the fridge, adding a couple of extra minutes to your cooking time for the best results. For longer storage, you can freeze cooked patties for up to 3 months—just allow them to cool completely before placing them in zip-sealed bags. When reheating, they’ll be just as delicious! Tips for the Best Cottage Cheese Chicken Patties Avoid Overmixing: Gently combine ingredients to keep patties tender. Overmixing can result in a tough texture. Check for Moisture: Use a ground chicken that has some fat to ensure juiciness. Too lean may lead to dry patties. Uniform Size: Shape patties to be uniform in size for even cooking. Uneven sizes can lead to some being overcooked and others undercooked. Cool Before Freezing: Allow patties to cool completely before freezing. This helps maintain their texture and prevents them from sticking together. Review Seasoning: Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Seasoning is crucial for enhancing the flavor of your Cottage Cheese Chicken Patties. What to Serve with Cottage Cheese Chicken Patties These delectable patties invite a symphony of flavors on your plate, turning a simple meal into a satisfying feast. Crispy Green Salad: Fresh greens coupled with a zesty vinaigrette add brightness to the dish, balancing the patties’ richness beautifully. Try tossing in some sliced cucumbers and crunchy radishes for added texture. Fluffy Quinoa: Served as a bed for your patties, quinoa’s nutty flavor and fluffy texture work in harmony, providing a healthy and filling base. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: This creamy side offers a low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, complementing the chicken patties while bringing a slight garlic punch that enhances every bite. Roasted Veggies: Mix up a medley of seasonal veggies such as bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots, drizzled with olive oil and herbs. Their caramelized sweetness beautifully contrasts with the savory patties. Creamy Coleslaw: The crunch of coleslaw, with its creamy dressing and tangy notes, adds a refreshing element that contrasts nicely with the cottage cheese’s richness. Zesty Dipping Sauce: A side of tzatziki or spicy buffalo sauce elevates your meal, providing a playful dip that pairs beautifully with the juicy texture of the patties. Herb-Infused Couscous: Light and fluffy, couscous can be enhanced with herbs and lemon zest, creating an aromatic side that perfectly complements the savory patties. Chilled White Wine: A crisp, refreshing white wine pairs nicely with the flavors of the chicken patties, enhancing the dining experience and making it feel even more special. Refreshing Fruit Salad: To lighten up your meal, a fruit salad with melons, berries, and mint adds a sweet, refreshing note that cleanses the palate after each savory bite. How to Store and Freeze Cottage Cheese Chicken Patties Fridge: Store leftover patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for quick meals. Freezer: Allow cooked patties to cool completely. Then, freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to zip bags for up to 3 months, preserving their juicy texture. Reheating: For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or in the oven at 350°F until heated fully. Enjoy them just like fresh! Meal Prep: These Cottage Cheese Chicken Patties are perfect for meal prepping; make a big batch and store them for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. Cottage Cheese Chicken Patties Recipe FAQs What type of ground meat should I use for Cottage Cheese Chicken Patties? Ground chicken is my go-to for these patties, as it provides a juicy texture and holds together well. However, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey. Just make sure to choose turkey that’s not too lean; a bit of fat helps to keep the patties moist. How long can I store Cottage Cheese Chicken Patties in the fridge? These patties can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This makes them perfect for meal prep! You’ll have easy access to a nutritious protein-packed dish right when you need it. Can I freeze Cottage Cheese Chicken Patties? Absolutely! To freeze, allow the cooked patties to cool completely. Then, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm, about 30 minutes. Once frozen, transfer them to zip bags or airtight containers. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months! When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in a skillet or oven until warmed through. What should I do if my patties fall apart while cooking? If your patties are breaking apart, it could be a sign that the mixture is too dry or you didn’t bind them well enough. To fix this, try adding a little more cottage cheese or an extra egg for moisture. Another helpful tip is to ensure you’re shaping them into uniform size; this ensures even cooking and sturdiness. If you prefer, chill the patties in the fridge for about 30 minutes before cooking, as this helps them to firm up and hold together better. Are Cottage Cheese Chicken Patties suitable for gluten-free diets? Yes! If you substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour, these patties become a fantastic low-carb and gluten-free option. Ensure all other ingredients, especially sauces or dips, are also gluten-free if serving for those with dietary restrictions. Can my pets share Cottage Cheese Chicken Patties? While the ingredients are generally safe for pets, it’s best to skip on the onion powder and garlic powder when making a batch for your furry friends, as they can be harmful to dogs and cats. You might consider making a smaller, pet-friendly version with just chicken and cottage cheese, without added spices. Cottage Cheese Chicken Patties for Juicy Meal Prep Bliss Cottage Cheese Chicken Patties are a protein-packed delight, perfect for meal prep with moist texture and versatile serving options. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsCooling Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 35 minutes mins Servings: 4 pattiesCourse: ChickenCuisine: AmericanCalories: 200 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Patties1 lb Ground Chicken Can substitute with ground turkey1 cup Cottage Cheese Adds moisture1 large Egg Acts as a binder1 cup Breadcrumbs (Panko) Use almond flour for gluten-free1 tsp Garlic Powder For flavor1 tsp Onion Powder Enhances aromato taste Salt Essential for flavor balanceto taste Pepper Essential for flavor balance1/4 cup Parsley Optional, for freshness Equipment Mixing bowlskilletBaking Sheet Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsIn a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, cottage cheese, egg, and breadcrumbs (or almond flour for a low-carb version). Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and chopped parsley. Mix until just combined.Divide the mixture into small portions, about 2 tablespoons each. Roll each portion into a ball and then flatten to create a patty.Add olive oil to a skillet and heat over medium heat for about 2 minutes. It is ready when it shimmers.Carefully place the patties into the hot skillet, cooking for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.For baking, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20-22 minutes, flipping halfway through.Let the patties cool for a couple of minutes before serving hot or cold with dipping sauces or salads. Nutrition Serving: 1pattiesCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 30gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1.5mg NotesAvoid overmixing to keep patties tender. Use ground chicken with some fat for juiciness. Shape patties uniform for even cooking. Cool completely before freezing. 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