Sometimes the best recipes are inspired by the simplest ingredients already sitting in your refrigerator. That’s exactly how this 34g Protein Everything Bagel Chicken Cottage Cheese Bowl came to life. I had some grilled chicken left over from meal prep, a container of cottage cheese that needed to be used, fresh cucumbers and cherry tomatoes, and a jar of everything bagel seasoning that I had been sprinkling on almost everything lately. Instead of making another salad or sandwich, I layered everything into a bowl, added a generous sprinkle of seasoning, and discovered one of the easiest high-protein lunches I’ve ever made.

This bowl proves that healthy meals don’t need to be complicated to be incredibly satisfying. The creamy cottage cheese provides a rich base that’s packed with protein, while the juicy grilled chicken adds hearty texture and even more complete protein. Crisp cucumbers and sweet cherry tomatoes bring freshness and crunch, and the everything bagel seasoning ties the entire dish together with its irresistible blend of sesame seeds, garlic, onion, poppy seeds, and salt.

If you’re looking for meals that support muscle recovery, help you stay full longer, or simply make it easier to increase your daily protein intake, this 34g Protein Everything Bagel Chicken Cottage Cheese Bowl is a fantastic choice. Every serving delivers an impressive 34 grams of protein using simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at any grocery store. There’s no complicated cooking process, no expensive specialty ingredients, and no long list of steps to remember.

One reason I keep returning to this recipe is how refreshing it feels. Unlike heavier lunches that leave you feeling sluggish, this bowl is cool, crisp, and satisfying without weighing you down. It’s especially perfect during warmer months when I want something filling but don’t feel like eating a hot meal.

Meal prep is another reason this recipe has become one of my weekly favorites. I usually grill several chicken breasts at the beginning of the week, wash and chop fresh vegetables, and portion cottage cheese into containers. When lunchtime arrives, assembling this bowl takes less than five minutes, making healthy eating almost effortless.

The everything bagel seasoning deserves special attention because it completely transforms the recipe. That familiar combination of toasted sesame seeds, garlic, onion, and poppy seeds creates bold flavor without requiring heavy sauces or complicated spice blends. It’s amazing how such a small amount of seasoning can elevate simple ingredients into something that feels much more exciting.

Another thing I love about this bowl is its flexibility. Some days I add avocado for healthy fats, while other times I toss in sliced bell peppers, radishes, green onions, or even a hard-boiled egg for additional protein. The basic recipe stays consistent, but those small additions make it easy to enjoy throughout the week without getting bored.

Whether you’re meal prepping for busy workdays, looking for a satisfying post-workout lunch, or simply trying to eat more protein without spending hours in the kitchen, this recipe checks every box. It’s quick, nutritious, customizable, and genuinely delicious.

Healthy eating often becomes sustainable when recipes are simple enough to make repeatedly, and this bowl is one you’ll likely find yourself craving week after week.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• 🍗 Packed with 34 grams of protein per serving.
• 🧀 Creamy cottage cheese creates a rich, satisfying base.
• 🥒 Crisp cucumbers add refreshing crunch.
• 🍅 Cherry tomatoes provide natural sweetness and color.
• 🥯 Everything bagel seasoning delivers bold flavor with minimal effort.
• ⏱ Ready in about 20 minutes.
• 📦 Perfect for weekly meal prep.
• ❄️ Served chilled—no reheating required.
• 💪 Great for post-workout recovery.
• ❤️ Naturally low in carbohydrates.
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Family-friendly and easy to customize.
• 🌿 Made with simple everyday ingredients.

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My Personal Experience

I’ve always enjoyed meals that are both refreshing and filling.

The challenge was finding recipes that actually delivered enough protein without requiring complicated preparation.

For a while, I relied on grilled chicken salads.

They were healthy.

But after eating nearly the same lunch every day, I wanted something different.

One afternoon while preparing lunch, I noticed a container of cottage cheese sitting beside leftover grilled chicken.

Nearby were cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and my favorite jar of everything bagel seasoning.

I honestly wasn’t expecting much.

I simply layered everything together, sprinkled on the seasoning, and sat down to eat.

The first bite surprised me.

The creamy cottage cheese balanced the savory chicken perfectly.

The cucumbers stayed wonderfully crisp.

The tomatoes added freshness.

Then the everything bagel seasoning tied every ingredient together with its crunchy sesame seeds, garlic, onion, and poppy seeds.

It tasted much more interesting than I expected from such simple ingredients.

Since then, this recipe has become part of almost every meal prep session.

Whenever I grill chicken for dinner, I intentionally cook extra because I know this bowl will appear later in the week.

I’ve also noticed how satisfying it is.

The high protein content keeps me comfortably full throughout the afternoon, which makes it much easier to avoid unnecessary snacking.

Friends who’ve tried this bowl usually ask what dressing I used.

They’re always surprised when I tell them there really isn’t one.

The creamy cottage cheese combined with everything bagel seasoning creates enough flavor that additional dressing isn’t even necessary.

Recipes like this remind me that healthy eating doesn’t have to involve dozens of ingredients or complicated cooking techniques.

Sometimes the simplest combinations become your favorites.

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Required Equipment

Grill Pan or Skillet

A quality grill pan or heavy skillet creates beautifully browned chicken with excellent flavor.

I often use a cast-iron grill pan because it develops a slight char that pairs wonderfully with the everything bagel seasoning.

Alternative: Outdoor grill, air fryer, or nonstick skillet.

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Chef’s Knife

A sharp knife makes slicing the chicken and chopping vegetables quick, safe, and precise.

Even cuts also improve the presentation of the finished bowl.

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Cutting Board

Using separate cutting boards for raw chicken and vegetables helps maintain good food safety practices.

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Mixing Bowl

Although this recipe can be assembled directly in serving bowls, a mixing bowl is useful if you’re preparing multiple servings at once.

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Measuring Cups

Helpful for accurately portioning cottage cheese and vegetables.

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Measuring Spoons

Ensures the everything bagel seasoning stays balanced every time you prepare the recipe.

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Meal Prep Containers

One reason I make this recipe so often is because it stores beautifully.

Airtight containers keep everything fresh throughout the week.

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Instant-Read Thermometer

An instant-read thermometer guarantees perfectly cooked chicken every time by ensuring it reaches 165°F (74°C) without becoming dry.

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Ingredients & Substitutions

Every ingredient contributes something unique to the final bowl, creating the perfect balance of protein, freshness, and texture.

For the Chicken

4 ounces boneless, skinless chicken breast

Chicken breast provides lean, complete protein while staying light enough for a refreshing lunch.

When properly cooked, it remains juicy even after refrigeration.

Substitutions

• Turkey breast
• Chicken tenderloins
• Rotisserie chicken
• Leftover grilled chicken

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1 tablespoon olive oil

Helps the seasonings stick while encouraging even browning.

Substitutions

• Avocado oil
• Light olive oil

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½ teaspoon garlic powder

Adds savory flavor to the chicken.

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½ teaspoon onion powder

Balances the garlic with mild sweetness.

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Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Essential for bringing out the natural flavor of the chicken.

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For the Bowl

½ cup low-fat cottage cheese

The creamy foundation of the bowl.

Besides contributing protein, cottage cheese also provides calcium and slow-digesting casein protein that promotes fullness.

Substitutions

• Full-fat cottage cheese
• Blended cottage cheese
• Plain Greek yogurt

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½ cup diced cucumber

Adds refreshing crunch and hydration.

Substitutions

• Persian cucumbers
• English cucumbers
• Celery

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½ cup cherry tomatoes

Cherry tomatoes contribute natural sweetness, bright color, and freshness.

Substitutions

• Grape tomatoes
• Roma tomatoes
• Mini sweet peppers

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¼ teaspoon everything bagel seasoning

The signature ingredient.

Its combination of sesame seeds, garlic, onion, poppy seeds, and salt provides bold flavor with almost no effort.

Substitutions

• Homemade everything bagel seasoning
• Sesame seasoning blend
• Garlic herb seasoning

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Optional Fresh Chives

Chopped chives add a mild onion flavor and fresh color.

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Optional Lemon Wedges

A squeeze of fresh lemon brightens every bite.

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How to Make 34g Protein Everything Bagel Chicken Cottage Cheese Bowl

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken breast dry using paper towels.

Drizzle with olive oil and season evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.

Allow the chicken to rest for about 10–15 minutes before cooking.

Mini Tip

Letting the chicken rest with the seasoning helps develop deeper flavor while promoting even cooking.

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Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a grill pan, skillet, or outdoor grill over medium-high heat.

Cook the chicken for approximately 5–7 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Transfer it to a cutting board and let it rest for at least five minutes before slicing.

Mini Tip

Resting the chicken keeps it juicy and prevents moisture from escaping when sliced.

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Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables

Wash the cucumber and cherry tomatoes thoroughly.

Dice the cucumber into bite-sized pieces.

Leave the cherry tomatoes whole or slice them in half if preferred.

Mini Tip

Dry the vegetables completely before assembling the bowl to prevent excess moisture.

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Step 4: Prepare the Cottage Cheese Base

Spoon the cottage cheese into the serving bowl.

If you prefer an ultra-creamy texture, blend it for 30–45 seconds before adding it to the bowl.

Mini Tip

Blended cottage cheese creates a texture that’s similar to whipped ricotta while maintaining all of the protein.

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Step 5: Assemble the Bowl

Arrange the sliced grilled chicken over the cottage cheese.

Add the diced cucumbers and cherry tomatoes around the chicken.

Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning evenly across the top.

If using, finish with chopped fresh chives and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Mini Tip

Add the seasoning just before serving to preserve the crunch of the sesame and poppy seeds.

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Step 6: Serve or Refrigerate

Serve immediately while the vegetables are crisp and refreshing.

For meal prep, store the bowl in an airtight container and refrigerate until ready to enjoy.

Air Fryer Method

Cook the seasoned chicken at 380°F (193°C) for 14–16 minutes, flipping halfway through.

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Oven Method

Bake the seasoned chicken at 400°F (204°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

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Stovetop Method

Cook the chicken in a lightly oiled skillet over medium-high heat for approximately 5–7 minutes per side, adjusting for thickness. Allow it to rest before slicing and assembling the bowl.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Although this bowl is one of the easiest high-protein meals you can prepare, a few small mistakes can affect its texture and flavor. These are the most common ones I’ve encountered over the years.

Overcooking the Chicken

Chicken breast cooks quickly, and even a couple of extra minutes can leave it dry.

Fix: Use an instant-read thermometer and remove the chicken once it reaches 165°F (74°C). Let it rest before slicing.

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Using Watery Cottage Cheese

Some brands contain excess liquid that can collect at the bottom of the bowl.

Fix: Stir the cottage cheese well or drain any excess liquid before serving.

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Packing Wet Vegetables

Cucumbers and tomatoes release moisture if they aren’t dried properly.

Fix: Wash and thoroughly dry all vegetables before assembling the bowl.

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Adding the Seasoning Too Early

Everything bagel seasoning can lose some of its crunch if it sits on moist ingredients for too long.

Fix: Sprinkle it over the bowl immediately before serving whenever possible.

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Under-Seasoning the Chicken

The everything bagel seasoning adds flavor, but the chicken should still be properly seasoned.

Fix: Season generously before cooking with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

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Skipping the Resting Time

Cutting the chicken immediately after cooking allows valuable juices to escape.

Fix: Rest the chicken for at least five minutes before slicing.

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Mixing Everything Too Aggressively

The ingredients look and taste better when each maintains its own texture.

Fix: Layer or gently fold the ingredients together rather than stirring vigorously.

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Pro Tips for Best Results

These simple tricks consistently produce the freshest, most flavorful bowl.

Grill Extra Chicken

Whenever you’re already cooking chicken, prepare an extra breast or two.

Future lunches become incredibly easy.

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Blend the Cottage Cheese

If you prefer a smoother texture, blend it for about 30–45 seconds.

The result is creamy, silky, and similar to whipped ricotta.

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Add Seasoning Last

Everything bagel seasoning stays crisp when sprinkled on just before eating.

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Chill Before Serving

A chilled bowl tastes especially refreshing during warmer months.

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Use Fresh Lemon

A squeeze of lemon brightens every ingredient without adding significant calories.

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Slice Chicken Thinly

Thin slices distribute more evenly throughout the bowl and make every bite balanced.

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Increase Protein Easily

Want even more protein?

• Add another ounce of chicken.
• Increase the cottage cheese slightly.
• Include a hard-boiled egg.

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Prepare Multiple Servings

I usually prepare three or four bowls at once.

It takes almost the same amount of effort as preparing one.

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High-Protein Nutrition & Strategy

One reason this recipe has become a regular part of my weekly meal prep is because it combines several naturally high-protein ingredients into one refreshing, balanced meal. Instead of relying on processed protein products, it uses everyday foods that work together beautifully.

Chicken breast serves as the primary protein source. It’s naturally lean, rich in complete protein, and contains all nine essential amino acids required for muscle growth, maintenance, and recovery.

Cottage cheese contributes another excellent source of complete protein, particularly casein, which digests more slowly than many other proteins. This slow digestion helps promote longer-lasting fullness, making the bowl especially satisfying during busy afternoons.

Everything bagel seasoning doesn’t significantly increase the protein content, but it dramatically enhances the flavor using toasted sesame seeds, garlic, onion, and poppy seeds. It allows the bowl to taste exciting without relying on heavy sauces or dressings.

Fresh cucumbers and cherry tomatoes provide hydration, fiber, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals while adding the crisp texture that makes this meal so refreshing.

Why High-Protein Meals Matter

Consuming enough protein throughout the day may help:

• Support muscle growth and repair
• Improve workout recovery
• Increase feelings of fullness
• Reduce unnecessary snacking
• Maintain steady energy levels
• Support healthy aging

Rather than eating most of your protein in one meal, distributing it throughout breakfast, lunch, and dinner can make it easier to meet your daily nutrition goals.

Excellent for Meal Prep

This recipe stores exceptionally well.

I often prepare grilled chicken on Sunday, chop fresh vegetables, and portion the cottage cheese into containers.

Lunch takes less than five minutes to assemble throughout the week.

Great Post-Workout Meal

With 34 grams of protein, this bowl makes an excellent recovery meal.

If you need extra carbohydrates after intense exercise, pair it with:

• Brown rice
• Roasted sweet potatoes
• Whole-grain crackers
• Fresh fruit

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Variations You Can Try

One reason I never get bored with this bowl is because it’s easy to customize.

Avocado Everything Bowl

Add sliced avocado for healthy fats and creamy texture.

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Southwest Version

Include:

• Corn
• Black beans
• Jalapeños
• Cilantro

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Mediterranean Bowl

Replace the everything bagel seasoning with oregano and include:

• Feta cheese
• Kalamata olives
• Fresh dill

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Ranch Version

Mix ranch seasoning directly into the cottage cheese before assembling.

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Buffalo Chicken Bowl

Toss the chicken in buffalo sauce before adding it to the bowl.

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Extra Cheesy Bowl

Add:

• Parmesan
• Mozzarella
• Reduced-fat cheddar

for even more protein and richness.

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Lower-Carb Version

Increase cucumbers and reduce tomatoes slightly.

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Turkey Bowl

Replace the chicken with grilled turkey breast for a different flavor while maintaining excellent protein.

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Tips for This Recipe

One of the easiest ways to improve this bowl is to focus on freshness. Cold cottage cheese paired with chilled vegetables and freshly sliced chicken creates an incredibly refreshing meal that’s especially enjoyable during warmer weather.

If you’re serving guests, arrange the ingredients in neat sections instead of mixing everything together. The colorful presentation looks much more inviting and allows everyone to enjoy a little of each ingredient in every bite.

A generous pinch of freshly cracked black pepper pairs beautifully with the everything bagel seasoning and enhances the flavor of the cottage cheese.

For meal prep, keep the seasoning in a separate small container and sprinkle it over the bowl just before eating. This helps preserve its signature crunch.

Finally, don’t hesitate to adjust the protein portion to fit your needs. An extra ounce of grilled chicken or another spoonful of cottage cheese is an easy way to increase the protein without changing the overall flavor profile.

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Optional Additions

Although the bowl is delicious as written, these simple additions make it even more satisfying.

Hard-Boiled Eggs

A sliced hard-boiled egg adds complete protein and creates a heartier meal.

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Avocado

Provides healthy fats and a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the cottage cheese.

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Hemp Hearts

A tablespoon adds plant-based protein, healthy fats, and minerals.

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Chia Seeds

A teaspoon contributes fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.

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Sunflower Seeds

Add crunch while increasing healthy fats and vitamin E.

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Bell Peppers

Diced bell peppers provide sweetness, vitamin C, and additional crunch.

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Cottage Cheese

If you’re aiming for even higher protein, simply increase the cottage cheese portion slightly.

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Whey Protein

Some people ask whether unflavored whey protein can be mixed into cottage cheese.

While it’s possible, I don’t usually recommend it because it changes the creamy texture. The bowl already provides plenty of natural protein.

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Serving Ideas

This bowl works well for almost every occasion.

Meal Prep Lunch

Prepare several portions for quick weekday lunches.

Post-Workout Meal

Pair with roasted potatoes or fruit for additional recovery carbohydrates.

Light Summer Dinner

Serve with sparkling water and fresh berries.

Office Lunch

Since it’s delicious cold, it’s ideal for work lunches.

Weekend Brunch

Enjoy alongside whole-grain toast or fresh fruit.

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Storage Recommendations

Refrigerator

Store the assembled bowl in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

For the best texture, keep the everything bagel seasoning separate until serving.

Freezer

Freeze only the cooked chicken for up to 3 months.

The vegetables and cottage cheese should not be frozen.

Reheating

This recipe is designed to be enjoyed chilled.

If preferred, warm only the chicken before adding it back to the bowl.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this bowl ahead of time?

Yes.

It’s an excellent meal-prep recipe and stores well for several days.

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Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely.

Rotisserie chicken is one of the easiest shortcuts.

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Can I replace cottage cheese with Greek yogurt?

Yes.

Greek yogurt creates a tangier flavor while still providing plenty of protein.

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Is this recipe good after a workout?

Definitely.

The lean chicken and cottage cheese provide high-quality protein for recovery.

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Can I blend the cottage cheese?

Yes.

Blending creates a smooth, creamy texture that many people enjoy.

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Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes.

Choose dairy-free cottage cheese alternatives, although the protein content will vary.

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Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely.

Bell peppers, radishes, celery, spinach, and green onions all work beautifully.

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Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

Approximate values.

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	320
Protein	34g
Fat	12g
Total Carbohydrates	10g
Fiber	2g
Net Carbs	8g
Sugar	6g
Sodium	520mg

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📌 Recipe Snapshot

Recipe Name: 34g Protein Everything Bagel Chicken Cottage Cheese Bowl

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Course: Lunch, Dinner, Meal Prep

Cuisine: American

Servings: 1

Calories: 320 per serving

Protein: 34g per serving