Some of the best meals come from “what do we have on hand?” moments. This bowl was created on a busy night with simple staples—like ground chicken, tomato sauce, fresh lettuce, and cottage cheese—ingredients that may be found at a Redwood Empire Food Bank distribution or already in your kitchen.
It delivers big taco flavor without tortillas and shows how fresh, simple ingredients can come together into a quick, affordable, low-carb, protein-packed meal that’s both satisfying and easy to make.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- ½ cup canned tomato sauce
- 1 cup cottage cheese (for topping or side)
- 1 head lettuce, shredded
- Taco seasoning (to taste)
Instructions
- Brown the ground chicken in a pan over medium heat.
- Stir in the tomato sauce and taco seasoning. Let simmer for 3–4 minutes until the mixture thickens and the flavors come together.
- Fill bowls with a generous base of shredded lettuce and spoon the warm taco chicken mixture on top.
- Add a large scoop of cottage cheese on top (or serve on the side) for a cool, creamy finish.
Optional: Add in your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick!
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Taco Lettuce Bowl is proof that a handful of simple ingredients can turn into something nourishing, satisfying, and full of flavor. It’s easy to make, easy to adapt, and perfect for busy nights when you need a meal that comes together quickly without sacrificing nutrition.
Feel free to make it your own—add extra veggies, spice it up, or serve it family-style so everyone can build their bowl just the way they like. However you enjoy it, this recipe is a reminder that good meals don’t have to be complicated to bring comfort to the table.
About the Author: Cara Gerard is a Certified Nutrition Counselor with Nourish Your Health Span. Cara is also a Redwood Empire Food Bank volunteer.
Got a favorite recipe using ingredients from our distribution sites? We want to hear from you! Submit your recipe and help inspire others in our community to cook healthy, delicious meals at home.
