Cottage Cheese Buffalo Chicken Dip
Craving a light yet flavorful buffalo chicken dip? Try this easy cottage cheese version packed with protein and spice.
Ingredients
Cooked Shredded Chicken – 2 cups
Cottage Cheese – 2 cups (plain)
Buffalo Sauce – ¾ to 1 cup
Shredded Cheddar Cheese – 1 cup
Minced Garlic – 1 to 2 cloves (optional)
Onion Powder – ½ teaspoon
Salt and Pepper – to taste
Optional Add-Ons:
- Green Onions or Chives
- Ranch Seasoning
- Celery Bits
Optional Toppings:
- Extra cheese
- Drizzle of buffalo sauce
- Sliced jalapeños
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Cooked Chicken
- Option A: Boil and ShredPlace chicken breasts or thighs in a pot of water or chicken broth. Bring it to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the liquid and let it rest for a few minutes. Then shred it using two forks.
- Option B: Use Rotisserie ChickenIf you want a faster route, pick up a rotisserie chicken at the store. Remove the skin and bones, then shred the meat. This shortcut saves time in the kitchen.
- Option C: Leftover ChickenSometimes you have leftover chicken from another meal. This also works well. Just shred or chop it finely.
Step 2: Blend the Cottage Cheese
- Smooth Cottage Cheese (Optional Approach):Some prefer a smooth dip without the curds of cottage cheese. If you want a silkier base, blend the cottage cheese in a food processor or blender. Pulse it until it becomes creamy. This creates a closer texture to cream cheese.
- Keep It as Is:If you enjoy the original texture of cottage cheese, you can skip blending. Simply stir it with a spoon to make sure it’s slightly loosened.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in a Bowl
- Take a large mixing bowl.
- Add your cottage cheese (blended or unblended).
- Pour in the buffalo sauce. Start with ¾ cup if you want moderate heat, or go all the way to 1 cup for a stronger punch.
- Stir in shredded chicken until all pieces are coated in the sauce.
- Add onion powder and minced garlic (if using).
- Season lightly with salt and pepper, keeping in mind that hot sauce and cheese are already salty.
- Taste the mixture. Adjust seasonings as needed.
Step 4: Transfer to a Baking Dish
- Take a medium-sized baking dish (8x8 inches is a common size).
- Lightly grease it with cooking spray or a small amount of oil.
- Spread the mixture evenly in the dish. Level it out so it bakes consistently.
Step 5: Add the Shredded Cheddar Cheese on Top
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the dip.
- You can use more or less cheese depending on how gooey you want the top layer.
Step 6: Bake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the dish on a middle rack.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese on top melts and starts to bubble. If you see the edges browning lightly, that is a good sign it’s almost ready.
Step 7: Final Touch
- Remove the dish from the oven.
- If you want extra color, add a drizzle of buffalo sauce or some green onions.
- Let the dip rest for about 5 minutes before serving. It will thicken a bit as it cools.
Alternate Cooking Methods
- Slow Cooker: Mix all ingredients except the shredded cheese, place them in the slow cooker, and top with cheese. Cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally. This method helps keep the dip warm during parties.
- Stovetop: Combine the chicken, cottage cheese, and buffalo sauce in a pan on medium heat. Stir until it thickens, then add cheddar cheese. Stir again until melted. This is a fast approach, though you won’t get the same golden cheese top you get from baking.
Checking for Doneness
- The dip should be hot and slightly bubbly.
- The cheese on top should be melted.
- If you taste it and want a bolder flavor, you can add another splash of hot sauce or a pinch of salt.
Notes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 4g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 18g