This White Chicken Chili Cottage Cheese Winter Bake is a warm and cozy dish that’s perfect for chilly nights! It combines tender chicken, creamy cottage cheese, and spicy chili flavors in every bite.
I love how easy it is to whip up! Just mix everything together, bake, and enjoy a delicious meal that feels like a warm hug. Pair it with some crusty bread and you’re set! 🍞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: A staple for sautéing. You could swap it for canola or avocado oil if you prefer. Both work great for cooking without changing the dish’s flavor much.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth. If you want a milder taste, go for shallots. If you’re in a hurry, use onion powder (1 teaspoon) instead.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are excellent, but thighs are my favorite! They’re juicier and more flavorful. You can also use rotisserie chicken for added convenience.
Cottage Cheese: This adds creaminess! If you want a dairy-free option, consider using silken tofu blended until smooth, or a dairy-free cream cheese replacement.
Cheese: Monterey Jack and mozzarella are delicious choices. For a sharper flavor, try cheddar. If you’re dairy-free, there are many plant-based cheeses available nowadays.
Beans: White beans like cannellini are standard, but black or pinto beans can add a different twist. They’re great if you want to mix things up!
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Stays Juicy?
To keep chicken tender and juicy, it’s important not to overcook it. Here’s how to do that:
- Cook the chicken until just browned. It doesn’t need to be fully cooked through since it’ll finish baking.
- If you’re using leftover or rotisserie chicken, simply mix it in at the end to avoid drying it out.
- Keep an eye on your skillet while browning; moving the pieces around ensures even cooking.
By managing cooking times carefully and choosing the right cuts of chicken, you’ll enjoy a luscious, flavorful filling every time!
White Chicken Chili Cottage Cheese Winter Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 jalapeños, seeded and diced (optional, for heat)
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1 (15 oz) can white beans, drained and rinsed (e.g., cannellini or great northern)
- 1 (15 oz) can chicken broth
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese, divided
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: squeeze of lime juice for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to bake, totaling about 40 minutes from start to finish. A quick, hearty meal perfect for a cozy winter evening!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it’s ready to bake your delicious creation when you’re done prepping!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and jalapeño (if you’re using it) and sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes. The smell will be amazing!
3. Add the Garlic:
Once the onions are soft, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant. This will give your dish a lovely aroma!
4. Brown the Chicken:
Add the chicken pieces to the skillet. Brown the chicken on all sides until it’s almost cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Don’t worry; it will finish cooking in the oven.
5. Stir in the Spices:
Now, it’s time to add the diced green chilies, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and let it cook for another minute to let the spices bloom. Your kitchen is going to smell so good!
6. Add Beans and Broth:
Add the drained white beans and chicken broth. Stir everything to combine, and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together nicely.
7. Mix the Cheese:
In a separate bowl, mix the cottage cheese with the sour cream until smooth. This adds a creamy element that is just divine!
8. Combine Everything:
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the cottage cheese mixture. Make sure it’s mixed in evenly with the chicken and spices.
9. Prepare for Baking:
Transfer the chili mixture to a baking dish or oven-safe bowl. Sprinkle half a cup of shredded cheese on top. Just look at all that goodness!
10. Bake the Dish:
Place it in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 15 minutes. You want the top to be bubbly and the cheese slightly browned.
11. Add More Cheese:
After the first round of baking, remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the remaining half cup of shredded cheese on top. Return to the oven for another 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.
12. Final Touches:
Garnish your beautiful bake with chopped fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice if you like. This adds a nice fresh kick!
13. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your White Chicken Chili Cottage Cheese Winter Bake warm, with tortilla chips, cornbread, or alongside a crisp winter salad. Enjoy the cozy flavors and warmth!
This creamy, cheesy bake is a simple yet satisfying dish that brings warmth and comfort to any winter evening. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works perfectly. Just mix it in at the end before baking to save time and ensure it stays tender.
What Can I Substitute for Cottage Cheese?
If you’re not a fan of cottage cheese, you can use ricotta cheese or blended silken tofu for a dairy-free option. Both alternatives will add creaminess to the dish!
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you love some heat, add more jalapeños or sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes along with the spices. You can also use spicy green chilies instead of mild ones for an extra kick.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Adding a splash of broth can help refresh the texture!
