If you love the bold, spicy kick of buffalo chicken paired with a creamy, health-conscious twist, you’re going to adore this Cottage Cheese Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe. It’s a deliciously satisfying way to enjoy all the flavors you crave from traditional buffalo chicken dip but with cottage cheese adding a rich, protein-packed creaminess that balances the heat perfectly. Whether you’re gearing up for game day, hosting a casual get-together, or simply craving a comforting snack, this recipe is a total game-changer and will quickly become your new favorite dip to share with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cottage Cheese Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the creamy cottage cheese that keeps it light and protein-rich to the punchy Frank’s RedHot sauce that delivers that classic buffalo flavor.
- Cooked boneless skinless chicken breast (1 lb): Chopped small for perfect bite-sized pieces that soak up all the flavor.
- Cottage cheese (2 cups): Provides creamy texture and a healthy protein boost without overpowering taste.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 1/4 cups): Adds gooey, melty richness and a little sharpness to balance heat.
- Frank’s RedHot sauce (1/4 cup): The essential tangy and spicy element that defines buffalo flavor.
- Garlic powder (1 tsp): Brings subtle savory depth to the mix.
- Green onion (1): Fresh garnish that adds a mild bite and a splash of color on top.
How to Make Cottage Cheese Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by heating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures it’s ready to go as soon as your dip is mixed and assembled, so you get that perfect bubbly texture fast.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a medium bowl, mix together your cooked, chopped chicken, cottage cheese, one cup of shredded cheddar, Frank’s RedHot sauce, and garlic powder. If you prefer an extra smooth texture, feel free to blend the cottage cheese first before mixing it all together—it makes the dip creamy and luscious with every bite.
Step 3: Transfer and Top
Transfer this delicious mixture to a small casserole or any ovenproof dish. Use a spatula to smooth out the top, then sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of cheddar cheese generously over the surface. This will melt beautifully and create a gorgeous golden cheese crust.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake your dip for 15 to 20 minutes in the preheated oven until it’s hot and bubbly around the edges. For those who love a crispy top, switch on the broiler for the last one or two minutes—just keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn. The contrast of creamy and crispy textures is heavenly.
Step 5: Cool and Garnish
Remove the dip from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes—this allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to serve. Sprinkle with chopped green onion for a fresh, vibrant finish that adds a little bite and gorgeous color.
How to Serve Cottage Cheese Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly sliced green onions not only brightens the look of your dip but also adds a mild crisp, oniony flavor that complements the richness perfectly. Feel free to add a dash of chopped fresh parsley or a drizzle of ranch dressing for some extra flair.
Side Dishes
This dip is a superstar with crunchy dippers like fresh veggie sticks—think celery, carrot, and cucumber sticks—or classic tortilla chips for that satisfying salty crunch. You can also serve it alongside crusty bread slices or pita chips for a bit of hearty bite.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Cottage Cheese Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe in a hollowed-out bell pepper or a mini pumpkin bowl during fall gatherings. Another idea is to layer it in a clear glass dish with additional chopped green onions and cheddar to create a colorful dip parfait that will wow your guests visually and taste-wise.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Its flavors tend to deepen overnight, making it taste even better the next day. Just give it a good stir before reheating to bring back that creamy consistency.
Freezing
You can freeze the dip for up to 2 months by placing it in a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy again, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Note that the texture of the cottage cheese may change slightly, but stirring well after reheating will help restore the dip’s creaminess.
Reheating
To reheat, warm your dip gently in the microwave or in a small oven-safe dish at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through. Keep an eye on it to avoid drying, and if it looks a bit thick, add a spoonful of milk or cream to loosen it up while warming.
FAQs
Can I use regular cream cheese instead of cottage cheese?
While you can substitute cream cheese, using cottage cheese gives this dip a lighter texture and a boost of protein that cream cheese won’t provide. Cottage cheese also keeps the dip less heavy, making it more nutritious without sacrificing creaminess.
How spicy is this Cottage Cheese Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe?
The heat level depends on how much Frank’s RedHot sauce you use. This recipe strikes a nice balance by delivering that iconic buffalo zing without overwhelming heat, making it friendly for most spice tolerances.
Can I prepare this dip without an oven?
This particular recipe relies on baking to get that bubbly, melted top that everyone loves. However, you could warm it gently on the stovetop in a covered skillet, stirring regularly, though the texture won’t be the same as oven-baked.
Is it possible to make this dip vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the chicken with cooked, diced cauliflower or jackfruit as a fantastic vegetarian alternative that will still absorb the buffalo flavors beautifully.
What are good alternatives to Frank’s RedHot sauce?
If you don’t have Frank’s, you can use any similar cayenne pepper hot sauce, but keep in mind it will slightly alter the flavor. For a milder taste, try buffalo wing sauce blends or mix hot sauce with a bit of melted butter to mimic traditional buffalo wing sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Cottage Cheese Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that combines the best of spicy, creamy, and savory elements in one effortless dish. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, shows beautifully on the table, and is sure to become a staple in your dip rotation. Don’t hesitate—give this recipe a try, and watch it disappear fast every time you serve it!
Print
Cottage Cheese Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cottage Cheese Buffalo Chicken Dip is a creamy, tangy, and protein-packed appetizer that combines tender cooked chicken with spicy Frank’s Red Hot sauce and melty cheddar cheese. Baked until bubbly and topped with green onions, it’s perfect for game day or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Chicken Mixture
- 1 lb cooked boneless skinless chicken breast, chopped small
- 2 cups cottage cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup Frank’s Red Hot sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Topping
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 green onion, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the dip evenly.
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix the cooked chicken, cottage cheese (blend first if you prefer a smoother texture), 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, Frank’s Red Hot sauce, and garlic powder until well combined.
- Transfer to Dish: Pour and spread the mixture evenly into a small casserole dish or any ovenproof dish.
- Add Topping: Smooth out the surface and sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake the Dip: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until the mixture is bubbly and heated through.
- Broil for Crispiness (Optional): For a browned, crispy top, switch on the broiler for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onion and serve warm with fresh veggie sticks or tortilla chips.
Notes
- Note 1: For a smoother dip, blend the cottage cheese before mixing it with the other ingredients.
- Note 2: Cottage cheese adds protein and creaminess without the heaviness of cream cheese.
- Note 3: Use sharp cheddar for better flavor, and feel free to adjust the cheese quantity based on your preference for cheesiness.
- Note 4: Adjust the amount of hot sauce according to your preferred spice level.
