Looking for a healthy, high-protein meal that’s as delicious as it is nutritious? This cottage cheese chicken salad is the perfect solution! Packed with lean protein, this salad is not only satisfying but also easy to prepare. It’s ideal for lunch, dinner, or even a hearty snack.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious cottage cheese chicken salad:
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 1/2 cup celery, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
Equipments
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork
- Knife
- Chopping board
- Spoon
How to Make Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad – Step By Step
Step 1 – Gather Your Ingredients
Start by prepping all your ingredients. Dice the cooked chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Chop the celery and red bell pepper finely, and slice the green onions. Having everything ready and within reach will make the assembly of your salad quick and easy.
Step 2 – Prepare the Dressing
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cottage cheese, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. This combination provides a creamy and tangy dressing that perfectly complements the chicken and vegetables. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
Step 3 – Combine Ingredients
Add the diced chicken, chopped celery, sliced green onions, and diced red bell pepper to the bowl with the dressing. Using a spoon or spatula, gently mix everything until the ingredients are well combined and evenly coated with the dressing.
Step 4 – Chill and Serve
Once mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh parsley for added color and flavor.
How to Serve Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad
Enjoy your cottage cheese chicken salad as a standalone dish or serve it on a bed of fresh greens. It also pairs wonderfully with whole grain bread, crackers, or in wraps for a satisfying and nutritious meal.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
Feel free to modify this recipe by adding your favorite ingredients. Try including nuts like almonds or walnuts for a crunchy texture, or add fruits like apples or grapes for a sweet twist. If you prefer a spicier kick, a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can elevate the flavors beautifully.
Protein Powerhouse: High-Protein Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad Version
If you’re aiming to increase your protein intake, this salad can be your go-to meal. By incorporating a mixture of Greek yogurt with cottage cheese in the dressing and adding a boiled egg, you can amplify the protein content without compromising on flavor.
This version is ideal for fitness enthusiasts or anyone on a high-protein diet, providing a balanced meal that supports muscle recovery and satiation throughout the day.
Low-Carb Delight: Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad with a Twist
This low-carb variation of the cottage cheese chicken salad is perfect for those watching their carb intake. Substitute the red bell pepper with cucumbers and skip any sweet fruit additions. Opt for lettuce wraps instead of bread to keep things light yet fulfilling.
This twist makes the salad not only lighter but also keeps it refreshing, with every bite offering a crisp and punchy taste perfect for summer meals or picnics.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Be sure to give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing. Unfortunately, the salad doesn’t freeze well due to the fresh ingredients and dairy content.
FAQs
- Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken? Yes, leftover rotisserie chicken works wonderfully in this recipe for added flavor.
- Is Greek yogurt a good substitute for cottage cheese in this recipe? Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute if you prefer a smoother texture.
- Can I prepare this salad the day before? Absolutely! Preparing the salad a day in advance allows the flavors to blend even better.
- What other vegetables can I include? Feel free to include other veggies like carrots, snap peas, or cherry tomatoes for extra crunch and color.
Join in on the Fun! Your Thoughts on This Recipe
We hope you enjoy making and savoring this deliciously healthy cottage cheese chicken salad. Let us know in the comments how it turned out for you! Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family who love a good high-protein meal. Happy cooking!
Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- cottage cheese
- cooked chicken breast
- celery
- green onions
- red bell pepper
- lemon juice
- Dijon mustard
- salt and pepper
Instructions
Steps
- Start by prepping all your ingredients. Dice the cooked chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Chop the celery and red bell pepper finely, and slice the green onions. Having everything ready and within reach will make the assembly of your salad quick and easy.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cottage cheese, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. This combination provides a creamy and tangy dressing that perfectly complements the chicken and vegetables. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
- Add the diced chicken, chopped celery, sliced green onions, and diced red bell pepper to the bowl with the dressing. Using a spoon or spatula, gently mix everything until the ingredients are well combined and evenly coated with the dressing.
- Once mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh parsley for added color and flavor.