This High Protein Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad is a tasty mix of tender chicken, creamy cottage cheese, and crunchy veggies. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner!
I love how filling this salad is, but it feels so fresh! You can whip it up in minutes and enjoy it on its own or packed in a wrap. Who knew being healthy could be so easy?
Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Use shredded or diced cooked chicken for this salad. If you’re short on time, a rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. You can also use turkey if you have leftovers!
Cottage Cheese: Cottage cheese gives this salad its protein punch. If you’re not a fan, try using Greek yogurt for a similar creamy texture and more protein.
Celery: Celery adds a nice crunch. If you’re not a celery fan, you can replace it with diced bell peppers or cucumber for a fresh alternative.
Red Onion: Red onion has a milder taste. If it’s too sharp for you, use green onions or even sweet onions instead.
Greek Yogurt: This is optional for extra creaminess. You can skip it if you want a lighter dish, or substitute with sour cream if you prefer a tangy flavor.
Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like dill or parsley brighten the salad. If you don’t have these, try adding a sprinkle of dried herbs or a bit of lemon zest for some extra flavor!
How Do I Ensure My Salad Has the Perfect Flavor?
Flavor is key in salads, and achieving that balance takes some attention. The dressing makes a big difference here, so make sure to mix it well. Here’s how:
- Whisk the Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper together until smooth. Adjust these to your taste; a bit more lemon juice can help brighten it up!
- Taste the mixture before adding it to the chicken. It should be seasoned well, as it will coat everything.
- After combining everything, let the salad sit for at least 15 minutes. This helps the ingredients blend together, enhancing the overall flavor.
And remember, this salad tastes even better after a day in the fridge, so don’t hesitate to make it ahead of time!
High Protein Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (optional for creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (like dill or parsley) for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This chicken salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, with no cooking time since you’re using cooked chicken. It’s quick to make and perfect for a healthy meal any time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Main Ingredients:
Start by taking a large mixing bowl and adding the cooked chicken, cottage cheese, finely chopped celery, red onion, and green onions. Use a spatula or spoon to mix everything together until well combined. This is the base of your salad!
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt (if you’re using it), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This dressing will give your salad a creamy texture and a zesty flavor.
3. Mix Everything Together:
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture. Stir gently until all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing. Make sure every bit of chicken and vegetable is covered—this will enhance the flavor of your salad!
4. Taste and Adjust:
Take a moment to taste your salad and see if it needs more salt, pepper, or even a bit more lemon juice. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference for the perfect balance of flavor!
5. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, add some chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley for an extra burst of flavor and a nice presentation. Serve the salad immediately or let it chill in the fridge for up to 2 days. Enjoy it on its own, in a wrap, or on a bed of greens for a versatile and healthy meal!
Can I Use Canned Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Canned chicken is a convenient substitute. Just drain and rinse it before using. Measure out 2 cups, and break it up with a fork to achieve a nice texture in your salad.
How Can I Make This Salad Creamier?
If you want to amp up the creaminess, feel free to add more Greek yogurt or even a bit of mayonnaise. Start with another tablespoon of yogurt and adjust based on your taste. Greek yogurt gives a nice tang, while mayo adds richness.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To keep it fresh, try to only add the dressing to the portion you plan to eat right away and keep the rest separate until you’re ready to enjoy it!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your chicken salad by adding vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or even diced pickles for extra crunch. Just keep in mind that if you add more veggies, you might want to increase the dressing to maintain the flavor balance.
