If you are on the hunt for a deliciously satisfying dish that packs a serious protein punch, this High-Protein Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a fresh twist on the classic chicken salad, blending creamy cottage cheese with tender shredded chicken and vibrant herbs and veggies. Every bite is a perfect balance of tangy, savory, and mildly sweet flavors, making it an ideal meal for lunch, a light dinner, or even a hearty snack that keeps you fueled throughout the day. Plus, with each ingredient thoughtfully chosen, this salad is not only tasty but also incredibly nutritious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the key to nailing this High-Protein Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad Recipe. These essentials come together to create a harmony of flavors and textures that feel both hearty and refreshing.
- 1.25 lb cooked chicken breast: Provides lean protein and a tender, meaty base for the salad.
- 1 cup cottage cheese: Adds creaminess and a boost of protein without heaviness.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Brightens the salad with its zesty tang.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Offers a subtle, sharp kick that balances the creaminess.
- ½ teaspoon maple syrup: Introduces a touch of natural sweetness to round out flavors.
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped: Infuses fresh herbal notes that elevate the salad.
- 2 scallions (green onions), finely chopped: Adds mild onion flavor and a bit of crispness.
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped: Provides crunch and freshness for texture contrast.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Deepens the savory profile effortlessly.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance every component.
How to Make High-Protein Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start with cooked chicken breast that is either shredded or chopped into bite-size pieces. Using precooked chicken saves time, but feel free to poach or grill fresh chicken if you prefer. The chicken is the hearty base that makes this salad so filling and high in protein.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Dressing
In a medium bowl, combine the cottage cheese, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and maple syrup. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth and creamy. This mixture creates the perfect tangy and slightly sweet dressing that clings beautifully to the chicken.
Step 3: Add the Aromatics and Veggies
Stir in the chopped fresh dill, scallions, celery, and garlic powder. These components add layers of freshness, crunch, and flavor depth that prevent the salad from ever feeling dull or one-dimensional.
Step 4: Combine Chicken with Dressing
Fold the shredded chicken into the creamy cottage cheese mixture gently, ensuring every piece is coated well with the dressing and herbs. This step is where all the flavors meld together into that irresistible, protein-packed sensation.
Step 5: Season and Adjust
Finally, season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. Give the salad a final gentle toss and taste. Adjust lemon juice or seasoning as needed for your perfect balance.
How to Serve High-Protein Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of fresh chopped dill or a few thin slices of scallion on top brightens up the salad visually and adds a pop of fresh herbaceous aroma that invites you in for the first bite.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with crisp greens or toasted whole-grain bread for a balanced meal. For a low-carb option, serve it atop sliced cucumber or in lettuce wraps to keep things light and crisp.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, stuff the salad into ripe avocado halves or pile it on colorful heirloom tomato slices. You can even turn it into a protein-rich sandwich filling with whole-grain bread or pita pockets. These ideas bring exciting variety while maintaining that satisfying protein boost.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will meld even more as it rests, making it just as tasty the next day.
Freezing
Because of the cottage cheese and fresh veggies, freezing is not recommended as it can cause the salad’s texture to become watery or grainy upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for short-term storage.
Reheating
This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat. Simply give it a stir and enjoy straight from the fridge or after letting it sit out briefly to remove chill.
FAQs
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt is a great substitute if you want to keep the creaminess while adding probiotics and a slightly different flavor profile. Just swap in an equal amount and adjust seasonings to taste.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This High-Protein Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad Recipe makes an excellent meal prep option because it stores well in the fridge and keeps you full thanks to the high protein content.
Can I add nuts or seeds for extra crunch?
Definitely. Chopped walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds add a delightful crunch and extra nutrients. Just sprinkle them in before serving to keep them crisp.
What can I use if I don’t have fresh dill?
Dried dill works fine in a pinch, but reduce the amount as it’s more concentrated. Alternatively, fresh parsley or chives can add some lovely herbal notes too.
How do I make this salad lower in sodium?
Simply use low-sodium cottage cheese and limit added salt. The fresh lemon juice and herbs help keep the salad flavorful without relying heavily on salt.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this High-Protein Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad Recipe, it’s hard to imagine chicken salad any other way. It’s fresh, creamy, and packed with wholesome ingredients that make each forkful a delight. Whether you need a quick lunch, a nourishing snack, or a light dinner, this recipe brings everything you want on your plate. I can’t wait for you to make it your own and share it with your favorite people!
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High-Protein Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A light and protein-packed chicken salad made with creamy cottage cheese, fresh herbs, and crisp vegetables. Perfect for a nutritious lunch or snack, this High-Protein Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad combines tender cooked chicken breast with cottage cheese, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and fresh dill for a refreshing flavor. It’s easy to prepare, requires no cooking, and offers a healthy balance of protein and fresh ingredients.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1.25 lb cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
Dressing and Seasoning
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Vegetables and Herbs
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 2 scallions (green onions), finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Ensure your cooked chicken breast is shredded or chopped into bite-sized pieces to make mixing easier and eating more enjoyable.
- Mix the Dressing: In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk well until the dressing is smooth and well incorporated.
- Add the Vegetables and Herbs: Stir in the chopped fresh dill, scallions, and celery into the dressing. Mix thoroughly to distribute all the flavors evenly.
- Combine Chicken and Dressing: Add the shredded chicken breast to the bowl with the dressing and vegetables. Gently fold everything together until the chicken is evenly coated.
- Chill and Serve: For best flavor, cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Serve chilled as a salad on its own, in a sandwich, or on a bed of greens.
Notes
- You can substitute low-fat or fat-free cottage cheese to reduce calories and fat content.
- For extra crunch, consider adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans.
- This salad keeps well refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, briefly blend the cottage cheese before mixing.
- Adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences.
