This Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad is a quick, healthy, and high-protein dish that’s perfect for meal prep or a refreshing lunch. With tender rotisserie chicken, creamy cottage cheese, and a variety of fresh veggies, it’s an easy-to-make, flavorful salad that’s packed with nutrients.
Quick Description:
This protein-packed chicken salad combines rotisserie chicken, crunchy celery, fresh green onions, and creamy whipped cottage cheese. Seasoned with mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, it’s the perfect lunch or snack for a busy day. Easy to prepare, this salad is not only healthy but also delicious and satisfying.
Servings & Timing:
- Servings: 2
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (using rotisserie chicken)
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients List:
- 280 grams (2 cups) fully cooked rotisserie chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 80 grams (2/3 cup) chopped celery
- 60 grams (1/2 cup) sliced green onions
- 120 grams (1/2 cup) whipped cottage cheese (for creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon stone-ground mustard or Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Chicken:
- If using store-bought rotisserie chicken, remove the skin and shred or chop the meat into bite-sized pieces. Alternatively, you can use leftover cooked chicken breast.
-
Chop the Veggies:
- Wash and chop the celery and slice the green onions into thin rounds. You can adjust the amount based on your preference for crunch or flavor.
-
Mix the Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped celery, and sliced green onions.
-
Add the Cottage Cheese and Seasonings:
- To the bowl, add the whipped cottage cheese. Stir gently to combine, making sure the chicken and vegetables are coated with the creamy cottage cheese.
- Add mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir again until all ingredients are evenly mixed.
-
Taste and Adjust:
- Taste the chicken salad and adjust the seasoning to your liking. If you prefer more tang, you can add extra mustard, or for more creaminess, add a bit more cottage cheese.
-
Serve:
- Serve immediately, or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. This salad can be served in a wrap, over lettuce, or with whole grain crackers.
Additional Notes:
- Storage: This chicken salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s perfect for meal prepping and can be enjoyed on the go.
- For Extra Crunch: Add a handful of chopped almonds or walnuts to boost the texture and nutritional value.
- For Extra Flavor: You can swap the green onions with fresh dill or chopped parsley for a different flavor profile.
Dietary Info (Approximate per Serving):
- Calories: 280–320 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Carbs: 5g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 2g
Brief Introduction:
This Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad is the perfect go-to for a quick and healthy meal. The cottage cheese adds a creamy texture, while the mustard and garlic powder provide just the right amount of flavor. Whether you’re on a high-protein diet or just looking for a nutritious meal, this chicken salad is light, filling, and packed with goodness.
Flavor Tips & Variations:
- Make it spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Tropical twist: Add some pineapple or grapes to bring a sweet contrast to the savory flavors.
- Use Greek Yogurt: For a tangier and lighter version, swap the whipped cottage cheese with Greek yogurt.
Ingredient Substitutions:
- Cottage Cheese: If you don’t like cottage cheese, you can substitute with Greek yogurt for a similar creamy texture.
- Chicken: You can also use turkey or tofu for a plant-based protein option.
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions:
- Wrap it Up: Use a whole grain tortilla or lettuce leaves to wrap the chicken salad and create a satisfying sandwich or wrap.
- Stuff a Pita: Fill a whole wheat pita pocket with this chicken salad and add some spinach or kale for extra greens.
- Side Salad: Serve it as a topping over a mixed greens salad for a light and healthy meal.
Storage & Make-Ahead:
This chicken salad is perfect for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s great for quick lunches or snacks throughout the week.
FAQs:
-
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! You can substitute the whipped cottage cheese with dairy-free Greek yogurt or a plant-based cream cheese to make it vegan. -
Can I use leftover chicken?
Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for using up leftover cooked chicken, making it a great option for meal prep. -
Can I add more vegetables to this?
Yes! You can add bell peppers, cucumbers, or even shredded carrots for extra crunch and flavor.
Optional Personal Story:
“I discovered this chicken salad recipe when I was trying to create a quick, high-protein meal for lunch. It’s become one of my favorites because it’s so easy to make and keeps me full without feeling heavy. My family loves it, and it’s perfect for busy weekdays!”
Call-to-Action:
“Ready to try this delicious and healthy chicken salad? Give it a go, and let me know how it turns out in the comments! Don’t forget to share your creations by tagging us on social media!”
