This High-Protein Buffalo Chicken Dip offers a healthier twist on the classic appetizer by incorporating cottage cheese, boosting its protein content while maintaining the creamy, spicy flavors you love. It’s an ideal choice for gatherings, game days, or as a satisfying snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Health-Conscious: Utilizes cottage cheese to increase protein and reduce fat compared to traditional recipes.
- Simple Ingredients: Requires only five common ingredients, making preparation straightforward.
- Versatile Serving Options: Pairs well with various dippers like celery sticks, crackers, or pita chips.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional: chopped green onions or chives for garnish
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Blend Base: In a blender or food processor, combine cottage cheese and Greek yogurt until smooth.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the blended cottage cheese mixture with shredded chicken, hot sauce, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese until well combined.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Spread the mixture evenly into an oven-safe dish.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the dip is heated through and the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped green onions or chives if desired, and serve warm with your choice of dippers.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Approximately 8
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Variations
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of hot sauce to make the dip milder or spicier according to your preference.
- Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for varied flavors.
- Add-Ins: Incorporate diced jalapeños, bell peppers, or onions for extra texture and taste.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through, stirring occasionally to maintain a creamy consistency.
FAQs
What type of chicken works best for this dip?
Rotisserie chicken or any cooked, shredded chicken breast works well.
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the dip up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to a day in advance. Bake when ready to serve.
Is there a substitute for Greek yogurt?
Sour cream can be used as a substitute, though it may alter the nutritional content slightly.
How can I make this dip dairy-free?
Use dairy-free alternatives for cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, and cheddar cheese.
Can I serve this dip cold?
While traditionally served warm, this dip can also be enjoyed cold if preferred.
What are some good dippers for this dip?
Celery sticks, carrot sticks, tortilla chips, pita chips, or sliced bell peppers are great options.
How can I make this dip gluten-free?
Ensure all ingredients, especially hot sauce and dippers, are certified gluten-free.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Freezing is not recommended as it may affect the texture of the dairy components.
What can I do if the dip is too thick?
Stir in a small amount of milk or additional Greek yogurt to reach your desired consistency.
Can I use a different hot sauce?
Yes, use your preferred brand or type of hot sauce to customize the flavor.
Conclusion
This High-Protein Buffalo Chicken Dip is a nutritious and flavorful alternative to traditional versions, offering the classic spicy taste with a boost of protein. It’s easy to prepare and sure to be a hit at your next event or as a satisfying snack.
Print
High-Protein Buffalo Chicken Dip
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This High-Protein Buffalo Chicken Dip is a lighter, healthier version of the classic favorite, featuring cottage cheese and Greek yogurt for a creamy, protein-packed twist. Perfect for game days, parties, or as a satisfying snack, this flavorful dip is as nutritious as it is delicious.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie or chicken breast)
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup hot sauce (e.g., Frank’s RedHot)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional: chopped green onions or chives for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Blend the base: In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese and Greek yogurt until smooth and creamy.
- Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the blended mixture with shredded chicken, hot sauce, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well.
- Assemble: Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish and spread it evenly.
- Add topping: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with green onions or chives if desired, and serve warm with dippers like celery sticks, tortilla chips, or carrots.
Notes
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the dip up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.
- Spice Adjustments: Add more or less hot sauce to control the heat level.
- Substitutions: Sour cream can replace Greek yogurt, and mozzarella or pepper jack can substitute cheddar for a flavor variation.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *