Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works beautifully)
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
- 1 cup enchilada sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1 cup cooked brown rice or quinoa (optional, for a heartier bowl)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional toppings: sliced avocado, lime wedges, jalapeño slices, shredded cheese
Substitution tip: If you don’t have cottage cheese, Greek yogurt is a lovely alternative that keeps the creaminess and adds a tangy note. For the chicken, you can swap in turkey or even roasted chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir for 1-2 minutes until the spices bloom and fill your kitchen with that irresistible aroma.
- Stir in the shredded chicken and cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb all those lovely spices.
- Reduce heat to low and pour in the enchilada sauce, stirring gently to coat the chicken mixture evenly. Let it simmer for 5 minutes, so the flavors meld beautifully.
- In a separate bowl, gently fold the cottage cheese into the warm chicken mixture, creating a creamy texture that’s reminiscent of the comforting sauces Mama Lou used to make.
- If using, warm your cooked brown rice or quinoa and divide it into serving bowls. Spoon the creamy enchilada chicken mixture over the grains, or enjoy it on its own for a low-carb option.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and your choice of optional toppings like sliced avocado or a squeeze of lime. This step always reminds me of the vibrant, colorful plates Mama Lou would present, making every meal feel like a celebration.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International

