This White Chicken Chili Cottage Cheese Winter Bake is warm and cozy, perfect for chilly days! With tender chicken, creamy cottage cheese, and flavorful spices, every bite is comforting.
Honestly, you can’t go wrong with this dish. It’s like a hug in a bowl! I love serving it with some crusty bread for dipping. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This is great for sautéing, but feel free to swap it out for canola or avocado oil if that’s what you have on hand.
Onion: A yellow or white onion works best here for sweetness. However, you could use shallots for a milder flavor or even green onions for a fresh twist.
Chicken: I love using rotisserie chicken because it’s quick and tasty. If you’re vegetarian, try swapping chicken with mushrooms or chickpeas!
Cottage Cheese: The recipe calls for well-drained cottage cheese, which adds a creamy texture. If you don’t have any, ricotta can be a lovely alternative.
Green Chilies: Canned green chilies are convenient, but fresh or roasted peppers can add a great smoky flavor. Adjust the amount based on how spicy you like it!
Cheese: Monterey Jack gives a creamy melting quality, but mozzarella is also nice. For a bit more flavor, try sharp cheddar or pepper jack.
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture for Casserole Dishes?
The key to achieving that perfect casserole texture lies in mixing ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution and creaminess.
- Firstly, don’t skip draining the cottage cheese; excess moisture can lead to a runny casserole.
- When combining, gently fold in the chicken and beans so you don’t break them up too much. This keeps some chunkiness.
- Lastly, allow the dish to rest after baking; this helps it set up nicely and makes serving easier.
With these tips, you’re sure to create a deliciously creamy and filling White Chicken Chili Cottage Cheese Winter Bake that everyone will enjoy!
How to Make White Chicken Chili Cottage Cheese Winter Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie or boiled works well)
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed (e.g., cannellini or Great Northern)
- 1 cup mild green chilies, chopped (canned or fresh)
- 1 ½ cups cottage cheese, well drained
- 1 ½ cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese or mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This White Chicken Chili Cottage Cheese Winter Bake requires about 15 minutes of prep time and 25-30 minutes of baking time. So, you can have a delicious and hearty meal ready in about an hour. Perfect for those cozy winter nights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get the Oven Ready:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, lightly grease a medium-sized oven-safe casserole dish to prevent sticking.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until it turns translucent, which should take about 4-5 minutes. Then, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until it’s fragrant.
3. Add the Chicken and Beans:
Stir in the shredded chicken, drained white beans, and chopped green chilies. Cook this mixture for about 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld together nicely.
4. Create the Creamy Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, 1 cup of shredded cheese, sour cream, chicken broth, cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix it all together until smooth and creamy; it’s going to be delicious!
5. Combine Everything:
Now add the chicken and bean mixture into the cheesy goodness. Carefully fold to combine everything evenly without breaking up the beans too much.
6. Assemble the Bake:
Pour the combined mixture into your prepared casserole dish and spread it out evenly. Then, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese over the top for a melty, cheesy finish.
7. Bake to Perfection:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. It will smell heavenly!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s out of the oven, let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy it hot with crusty bread or tortilla chips for a cozy winter meal!
This creamy, flavorful White Chicken Chili Cottage Cheese Winter Bake is bound to become a favorite during chilly nights! Enjoy every bite! 🌟
Can I Substitute the Chicken with Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can use shredded rotisserie chicken, boiled chicken, or even turkey. For a vegetarian option, consider using chickpeas or mushrooms to replace the chicken.
Is There a Way to Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
Yes! You can substitute the cottage cheese with a dairy-free alternative like cashew cheese or tofu blended until smooth. Use a dairy-free sour cream for creaminess as well.
How Long Will Leftovers Last in the Fridge?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Definitely! You can freeze it before baking. Just cover tightly with plastic wrap and then foil, and it can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.