Chicken Cottage Cheese Salad
This Chicken Cottage Cheese Salad is a high-protein, creamy, and refreshing dish that’s perfect for a quick lunch, light dinner, or meal prep. With shredded chicken, creamy cottage cheese, crunchy veggies, and fresh herbs, this salad is both nutritious and satisfying. The cottage cheese adds a tangy, protein-packed alternative to mayo, making it a healthier twist on classic chicken salad.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or poached)
1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
½ cup Greek yogurt (or more cottage cheese for extra protein)
½ cup celery, finely chopped
½ cup red bell pepper, finely diced
¼ cup red onion, finely diced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Add-Ins:
¼ cup chopped nuts (almonds, pecans, or walnuts) for crunch
¼ cup dried cranberries or grapes for sweetness
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
1. Cook and shred the chicken if not using pre-cooked chicken.
2. Finely chop the celery, bell pepper, red onion, and herbs.
Step 2: Mix the Dressing
1. In a large bowl, whisk together cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
1. Add the shredded chicken, chopped veggies, and fresh herbs to the bowl.
2. Stir well until everything is evenly coated and creamy.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!
Serve on whole-grain toast, in a lettuce wrap, stuffed in an avocado, or as a dip with crackers.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 220
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 4g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Sodium: 400mg
Calcium: 10% DV
Iron: 8% DV
Notes & Tips
Make It Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cottage cheese and yogurt alternatives.
Make It Extra Creamy: Blend the cottage cheese before mixing for a smoother dressing.
Make It Vegan: Swap chicken for chickpeas or tofu crumbles.
Storage & Meal Prep:
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Stir before serving, as cottage cheese may release liquid.
Time Breakdown
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
This Chicken Cottage Cheese Salad is a quick, protein-packed meal that’s creamy, flavorful, and incredibly versatile. Perfect for meal prep, sandwiches, or a light and refreshing dish!