Name: Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced; 1 cup cottage cheese (low-fat or full-fat); ¼ cup Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise for a richer taste); ½ cup celery, finely chopped; ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped; ½ cup cucumber, diced (optional); ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste); ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad is a nutritious, protein-packed dish that combines tender chicken with the creamy texture of cottage cheese, fresh vegetables, and flavorful seasonings. It’s perfect for meal prep, a light lunch, or a satisfying dinner. Unlike traditional chicken salad recipes that rely on mayonnaise, this version provides a healthier twist with cottage cheese, offering a boost of calcium and protein while keeping it low in fat. Whether served in a sandwich, on crackers, or as a filling for lettuce wraps, this recipe is versatile and delicious.

Ingredients

Cooked chicken, shredded or diced
Cottage cheese
Celery, chopped
Red onion, finely diced
Bell pepper, diced
Fresh parsley, chopped
Dijon mustard
Lemon juice
Garlic powder
Salt
Black pepper
Paprika (optional)
Chopped nuts or seeds (optional)

Directions

Prepare the Chicken: Start by cooking your chicken if it isn’t already prepared. You can use rotisserie chicken, grilled, or poached chicken. Once cooled, shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces.
Mix the Base: In a large mixing bowl, add the cottage cheese. If you prefer a smoother texture, blend the cottage cheese slightly before mixing with the other ingredients.
Add the Vegetables: Stir in the chopped celery, red onion, bell pepper, and fresh parsley. These ingredients add crunch and freshness to the salad.
Season the Salad: Add Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using). Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
Incorporate the Chicken: Gently fold in the shredded or diced chicken, making sure it is well combined with the cottage cheese mixture.
Adjust the Taste: Taste the salad and adjust seasonings as needed. You can add a bit more lemon juice for tanginess or a pinch of extra salt if desired.
Optional Additions: For extra texture and flavor, add chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts, or sprinkle in sunflower seeds.
Chill and Serve: Let the chicken salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled over a bed of greens, in a wrap, on a sandwich, or with whole-grain crackers.

Variations

Greek-Inspired: Add crumbled feta cheese, cherry tomatoes, and kalamata olives for a Mediterranean flair.
Spicy Kick: Mix in some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
Avocado Boost: Mash in some avocado for extra creaminess and healthy fats.
Fruit-Infused: Toss in diced apples, grapes, or dried cranberries for a sweet contrast.
Dairy-Free Alternative: Use mashed avocado or hummus instead of cottage cheese.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes (if cooking chicken)
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Not recommended as cottage cheese may change texture when frozen.
Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed cold, but if preferred warm, gently heat in a pan over low heat without overcooking.

FAQs

How can I make this salad creamier?

Blending the cottage cheese before mixing or adding a small amount of Greek yogurt can create a smoother texture.

Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?

Yes, drained and shredded canned chicken works well as a quick and convenient alternative.

What type of cottage cheese is best?

Full-fat or low-fat cottage cheese both work, but small curd cottage cheese is preferred for a smoother consistency.

Is this salad keto-friendly?

Yes, this recipe is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it a great choice for a keto diet.

What can I serve this with?

It pairs well with whole wheat crackers, in sandwiches, on a bed of greens, or stuffed into bell peppers.

How do I make this salad dairy-free?

Substituting mashed avocado or hummus for the cottage cheese is a great dairy-free option.

Can I add eggs to this recipe?

Yes, chopped hard-boiled eggs can be added for extra protein and richness.

What can I use instead of celery for crunch?

Chopped cucumbers, radishes, or jicama can provide a similar crunch.

How long does it last in the fridge?

It stays fresh for up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! Preparing it a day in advance allows the flavors to meld, making it even tastier.

Conclusion

Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad is a fantastic, protein-packed alternative to traditional chicken salad. Its creamy, tangy, and crunchy elements make it a satisfying and healthy choice for any meal. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious lunch, a quick snack, or a meal prep-friendly recipe, this dish delivers in taste and texture. Try it today and enjoy a wholesome, delicious twist on a classic favorite!

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