This White Chicken Chili Cottage Cheese Winter Bake is a warm, cozy dish packed with yummy flavors. It includes tender chicken, creamy cottage cheese, and chili spices that warm you up inside!
Spoon it up with some crunchy bread or on its own—it’s like a cozy hug on a chilly day. I love how quick it is to prepare; perfect for not-so-quiet winter evenings!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a go-to for convenience. If you’re looking for something lighter, poached or grilled chicken works just as well. For a vegetarian option, try using cooked quinoa or chickpeas instead!
Cottage Cheese: This adds creaminess and protein to the dish. If you’re not a fan, you can swap it for cream cheese or ricotta for a different texture and flavor.
Cheeses: I love the blend of mozzarella and Monterey Jack, but you can use cheddar or pepper jack for more flavor. If you’re dairy-free, consider using a plant-based cheese option.
White Beans: These lend a nice creaminess. If you want a heartier dish, swap them for black beans or kidney beans, or leave them out entirely for a lighter bake.
Diced Green Chilies: They add mild warmth. If you want more spice, use diced jalapeños instead. You can also use fresh green peppers for crunch if desired.
How Do I Get the Cheese to Melt Perfectly?
Getting that perfectly melted cheese on top is key for a cozy bake. Here are some tips:
- Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded; it melts better and has a smoother texture.
- Mix half of the cheese into the mixture while keeping the other half for the topping. This ensures cheesy goodness throughout!
- Bake the dish uncovered so the cheese can brown nicely and create a delicious crust.
Letting the bake sit for a few minutes after removing from the oven helps the cheese set slightly, making for easier serving!
White Chicken Chili Cottage Cheese Winter Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bake:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or poached)
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or white cheddar cheese
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed (optional for creaminess)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For Garnishing:
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- Fresh jalapeño slices, for garnish (optional)
- Dollop of sour cream, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting winter bake takes approximately 10 minutes to prep and about 25 minutes to bake. In just 35 minutes, you’ll have a warm, hearty meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot when you pop your bake in!
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, bring together the shredded chicken, sautéed onions and garlic, cottage cheese, ½ cup of mozzarella cheese, Monterey Jack or white cheddar, diced green chilies, white beans (if using), chicken broth, sour cream, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s evenly combined.
4. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Grease a baking dish or ovenproof casserole. Pour the mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly to make sure everything cooks nicely.
5. Add Cheese on Top:
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese over the top of the mixture. This will create a deliciously cheesy crust when baked!
6. Bake the Dish:
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes. You want it to be bubbly and the cheese on top to be melted and lightly browned.
7. Let It Rest and Garnish:
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. This helps it set perfectly. Before serving, garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley and add some fresh jalapeño slices on top if you like a little heat. Don’t forget a dollop of sour cream!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve this hearty, creamy bake warm, paired with crusty bread or some tortilla chips for an extra crunch. Enjoy every comforting bite!
Enjoy this creamy, cheesy, mild chili bake with the wholesome goodness of cottage cheese and tender chicken—perfect for chilly days!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to fully thaw it before cooking. You can do this by leaving it in the fridge overnight or using a microwave on the defrost setting. Once thawed, cook the chicken, shred it, and it’s ready to add to the bake!
Can I Make This Bake Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to cook, just pop it in the oven. You may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
What Can I Use Instead of Cottage Cheese?
If you’re not a fan of cottage cheese, you can replace it with ricotta or cream cheese for a creamier texture. Greek yogurt could also work as a lower-fat alternative, adding a nice tang!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or you can microwave individual portions for a quicker option.
