This cozy winter bake combines tender chicken, creamy cottage cheese, and zesty spices for a hearty meal. It’s like a warm hug in a dish! 🥣
What I love most is how easy it is to whip up. Just mix everything, bake, and enjoy. Perfect for chilly nights when you need something comforting!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Cooked chicken is a must-have here. I often use leftover roast chicken or rotisserie chicken for ease. If you’re vegetarian, you can swap it out with canned beans (like white beans) to match the chili vibes.
Cottage Cheese: This gives the dish a creamy texture. If you’re not a fan, ricotta cheese works as a substitute. For a lactose-free option, choose dairy-free cottage cheese or silken tofu blended until smooth.
Cheese: I love using Monterey Jack for its meltiness, but you can mix it up! Use mozzarella or pepper jack for a bit of heat. The sharp white cheddar adds great flavor; just remember, any cheese you enjoy will work!
Green Chilies: Diced green chilies bring a little kick. If you like it spicier, consider using jalapeños or even fresh diced poblano peppers for added flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Sauté Onions and Garlic?
Sautéing the onions and garlic is crucial for building flavor in this dish. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat olive oil or butter in the skillet over medium heat.
- Add finely diced onions first. Stir occasionally until they’re soft and see-through, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic, cooking just until fragrant—about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn it!
This simple technique creates a foundation of flavor that elevates your bake, so don’t rush through it!
White Chicken Chili Cottage Cheese Winter Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Key Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or mozzarella blend)
- 1 cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
Spices & Seasoning:
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: red pepper flakes for garnish
Extras:
- Olive oil or butter for sautéing
- Crusty bread or tortilla chips (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty dish takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 20-25 minutes to bake, totaling around 35-40 minutes. With minimal effort, you’ll create a warm and satisfying meal perfect for winter nights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your winter bake cooks evenly and beautifully.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a medium skillet, heat a splash of olive oil or a bit of butter over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté until it turns translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, just until it’s fragrant. This builds a lovely flavor base for your bake!
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, your sautéed onions and garlic, diced green chilies, cottage cheese, sour cream, cream cheese, and half of both the shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses. This combo is bound to be creamy and delicious!
4. Season the Mixture:
Add in the ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until well combined—this is where all the flavors come together!
5. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Carefully transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. This will be the base of your cheesy delight!
6. Add the Cheese Topping:
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheeses evenly over the top for that perfect, gooey finish.
7. Bake:
Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and bubbling deliciously!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro or parsley, and if you like a little heat, sprinkle on some red pepper flakes. Serve warm with crusty bread or tortilla chips for dipping, and dive into this comforting winter bake!
Enjoy every warm, cheesy spoonful! This dish is sure to become a winter favorite.
Can I Use Leftover Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey works perfectly in this recipe. Just shred it or dice it like you would with the chicken, and follow the recipe as usual.
What Can I Substitute for Cottage Cheese?
If you’re not a fan of cottage cheese, feel free to use ricotta cheese for a similar texture. For a dairy-free option, consider using silken tofu blended until smooth!
How Can I Store the Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the microwave or in a skillet on low heat, stirring occasionally to avoid drying out.