This tasty chicken salad combines juicy blackberries, creamy cottage cheese, and tender chicken for a refreshing meal. It’s low in carbs but big on flavor!
The blackberries add a fun, sweet twist that makes this salad stand out. I like to whip it up for lunch and enjoy it with some crunchy veggies. Simple and delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: You can use any cooked chicken, like rotisserie or grilled. If you’re short on time, leftovers work great! For a vegetarian option, try chickpeas or canned beans instead.
Cottage Cheese: I love using cottage cheese for its creaminess. If you’re lactose intolerant, try lactose-free options or silken tofu for a similar texture with less dairy.
Blackberries: Fresh blackberries add natural sweetness and tartness. If they’re out of season, feel free to use raspberries or blueberries, or even frozen ones—just thaw and pat dry!
Celery and Red Onion: These add crunch and flavor. If you don’t have red onion, yellow onion works fine. Green onions are a milder alternative if you want something lighter.
Walnuts: They add a nice crunch! You can swap them for pecans or sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Salad Has Great Flavor?
Getting the flavors just right in your chicken salad is key. Start by mixing the cottage cheese and chicken thoroughly before adding other ingredients. This ensures a creamy base. When folding in the blackberries and veggies, use a gentle hand to keep them intact.
- Whisk the Dijon mustard and lemon juice separately for a smooth dressing.
- Always taste your mixture before serving to see if it needs more salt, pepper, or lemon—small adjustments can make a big difference!
- Letting the salad chill for at least 30 minutes is crucial. It allows the flavors to blend and makes it taste even better!
How to Make Low Carb Blackberry Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup blackberries, halved
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad will take about 10 minutes of prep time. You’ll want to chill it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together deliciously. So in total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Chicken and Cottage Cheese:
Start by grabbing a large bowl. Add the shredded or diced cooked chicken along with the cottage cheese. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed. This forms the base of your salad, so make sure they’re evenly combined!
2. Add Fresh Ingredients:
Next, gently fold in the halved blackberries, diced celery, finely diced red onion, and those optional walnuts if you’re using them. Be careful not to mush the blackberries too much; you want their lovely shape to shine through in your salad!
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This dressing will add a nice tangy flavor to your salad. Once it’s ready, pour it over the chicken mixture. Stir everything until it’s evenly coated and flavorful.
4. Chill and Garnish:
Now, it’s time for a quick break! Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it into the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes to let those yummy flavors come together. Right before you serve, consider garnishing with some fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and taste. You can serve this salad on its own or over a bed of fresh greens for extra crunch.
Enjoy your refreshing and healthy Low Carb Blackberry Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad!
Can I Use Different Fruits in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While blackberries add a nice flavor and texture, you can substitute them with other berries like blueberries, raspberries, or even chopped apples for a different twist. Just make sure to adjust the quantities according to your preference!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! This salad actually tastes better after sitting for a bit as the flavors meld together. You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to leave out the garnish until you’re ready to serve for the freshest presentation.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The cottage cheese may release some moisture, so give it a quick stir before serving again to reincorporate the ingredients!
Can I Substitute the Cottage Cheese?
Yes! If you’re not a fan of cottage cheese, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a creamy texture. Keep in mind that this will slightly change the flavor, but it will still be delicious!
