This White Chicken Chili Cottage Cheese Winter Bake is a cozy dish that will warm you right up! It’s packed with tender chicken, spicy chili, and creamy cottage cheese for a delicious twist.
It’s perfect for chilly evenings when all you want is something comforting. I love how easy it is to make; just mix everything together, bake, and enjoy the scents filling your kitchen!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked shredded chicken: This is the heart of the dish. You can use rotisserie chicken for ease or leftover chicken from another meal. If you’re vegetarian, try substituting with cooked lentils or mushrooms for a hearty twist!
Cottage cheese: It adds a creamy texture and protein boost. If you dislike cottage cheese, ricotta or cream cheese make great substitutes. They will change the flavor slightly, but they’ll keep the dish creamy!
White beans: Cannellini or great northern are perfect for this recipe. If you’re not a fan, kidney beans work too but will alter the color a bit. Black beans are also a viable option for a different taste.
Cheese: Monterey Jack is my go-to for gooey melted cheese, but feel free to mix it up! Pepper Jack gives a spicy kick, and you can also swap cheddar for a sharper flavor. Just keep the quantity similar.
Spices: Ground cumin and chili powder are essential for that chili flavor. If you want heat, add cayenne pepper or more chili powder. Each spice brings something special, so don’t skip them if you can help it!
How Can You Achieve Creamy Perfection in Your Bake?
To ensure a rich and creamy texture, mixing cottage cheese and sour cream well is vital. This combination not only adds creaminess but also balances the flavors nicely. Here’s how to make it work:
- Mix the cottage cheese and sour cream thoroughly before combining with the other ingredients. This helps create a smooth texture.
- Add chicken broth gradually until you achieve your desired consistency. A little extra liquid helps everything meld together during baking.
- Make sure to bake it uncovered so the cheese can brown nicely on top. This adds a delightful crunch to every bite!
White Chicken Chili Cottage Cheese Winter Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken breast
- 1 (15 oz) can white beans (e.g., cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty bake takes about 15-20 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to bake, making it a total of around 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner that is warm and comforting!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready for your bake. This helps the cheese get that nice golden color!
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a skillet over medium heat, warm up the olive oil or butter. Once it’s hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes or until softened and translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it smells delicious.
3. Mix the Main Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, drained white beans, and the diced green chilies along with your sautéed onions and garlic. Give it a good mix!
4. Add the Creamy Elements:
Now, stir in the cottage cheese, sour cream, ground cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well until it’s all combined and creamy!
5. Incorporate the Chicken Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth to loosen up the mixture slightly, and mix again until everything is incorporated. The broth helps make it nice and moist.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Grease your ovenproof baking dish, and then transfer the creamy chicken mixture into it, spreading it evenly.
7. Add the Cheese Topping:
Sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese evenly over the top of your dish. This is what will give it that beautiful cheesy crust!
8. Bake:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
9. Cool and Garnish:
Once it’s ready, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro or parsley on top for an added touch of flavor and color.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve this delicious winter bake warm, and pair it with tortilla chips for dipping or a fresh side salad. Enjoy every comforting bite!
This White Chicken Chili Cottage Cheese Winter Bake is sure to be a family favorite, bringing warmth and cheer on those chilly evenings!
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor. Just shred the meat and use it in place of the cooked chicken breast in the recipe.
Can I Make This Bake Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute the chicken with cooked lentils, chickpeas, or extra beans for protein. You can also add more vegetables, like bell peppers or zucchini, to enhance the dish.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If it seems dry, a splash of chicken broth or water can help restore moisture!
Can I Freeze This Bake?
Yes, this dish freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
